College lecturer returns to UCLan to further her career
A college lecturer from North Wales has donned a university cap and gown for the second time, scooping a prestigious educational award in the process.
Joanna Kipps has graduated from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) with a Masters with distinction in International Hospitality and Tourism Management.
After achieving a first-class honours degree in International Tourism Management from the University in 2013, the 25-year-old, who now lives in Worsley, Manchester returned to UCLan to complete a master's.
As a result of her studies, Joanna has been awarded the accolade of Best Postgraduate Student, by the Association for Tourism in Higher Education (ATHE).
She has already secured a job, as a lecturer in travel and tourism at Bury College, initially part-time and now full-time role she has had to balance alongside her studies.
The former Eirias High School and Sixth Form student also has a PGCE in teaching.
Joanna is thankful to the UCLan experience for allowing her to travel, having completed work experience at Disneyworld Florida during a sandwich year, as well as a whole host of extra-curricular activities.
She also developed good relationships with her tutors, mentioning Dr Dorota Ujma, senior lecturer in tourism, hospitality and events, and Dr Carley Sutton, course leader and senior lecturer, as being particularly inspiring.
She said: “It’s been hard work combining work and studying, but it’s been useful to be on both sides of the fence at the same time as both a lecturer and a student. My tutors and family have been extremely supportive, which is important when you’re dealing with the pressures of assignments and deadlines.
“I wanted to do a master's as it’s a qualification which will really help you stand out when it comes to getting a job. The tutors have been so helpful and eventually I’d like to lecture at a University too.”
"My tutors and family have been extremely supportive, which is important when you’re dealing with the pressures of assignments and deadlines."
Joanna was one of 1,500 students who graduated in front of family and friends at Preston’s Guild Hall during the winter ceremonies.