UWTSD student set to take studies to next level after achieving a first class honours degree

Natalie Beard had been working in the events industry for several years, from the age of 17, when she decided to enrol on a degree in Events and International Festivals Management at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD). She felt that becoming a mature student would help her take her career to the next level.

“I had got to a point where I didn't feel like I was progressing any further so decided to study Events to see if I could expand my events knowledge and gain a degree to help me to either develop my social enterprise or gain a job working for another company,” she says. “I chose to study at UWTSD because of the small class sizes and awesome location.”

She enjoyed her studies so much she’s now looking to return to the university to study for a Master’s after being awarded a first class honours degree.

“I loved the course and how a majority of it is coursework and practical based,” she says. “The lecturers are great too. I would definitely recommend it to anyone because the course covers a lot of the information you need to know to be able to run events as well as giving you opportunities to build your experience.

“Highlights of the course were running a virtual event in the third year alongside other Events and Tourism Students and volunteering at a Halloween event at Oystermouth Castle.”

One of the main challenges she faced during the course was adapting to online learning and learning from home.

“Working in an environment where the rest of the household were trying to live their lives was a challenge,” she says. “In the end, I moved back to Swansea in student halls for my last few weeks of the course when it was safe to do so, to give myself the space to be able to fully concentrate on my assignments.”

Now she’s achieved her degree her eyes are set on the future.

“I'm currently looking at applying for a Master’s so should be around for another year or so!” she says.

Programme manager Jacqui Jones adds:

“Natalie joined us from the North of England as a mature student with a wealth of practical Festivals and Events experience. She has been an excellent student, and during her studies at UWTSD, Natalie has not only developed her management skills and knowledge she has also further developed her events experience and gained the digital skills vital to support her planned career in Festivals Management.”

Further Information

Rebecca Davies

Swyddog Gweithredol Cysylltiadau â’r Wasg a’r Cyfryngau

Executive Press and Media Relations Officer

Cyfathrebu Corfforaethol a Chysylltiadau Cyhoeddus

Corporate Communications and PR

Mobile: 07384 467071

Email: Rebecca.Davies@uwtsd.ac.uk