Tourism graduate secures Merlin award

UCLan Tourism graduate Freya Evans is celebrating after winning a coveted award for academic excellence.

In addition to securing a First Class Honours Degree, Freya has been chosen as this year's recipient of the Merlin Entertainments Prize.

This is given to the student who has demonstrated exceptional academic performance during their studies.

Freya said it was a big honour to receive the award and that her time at UCLan had been a rewarding experience.

"The course has been nothing short of brilliant, providing me with a broad selection of modules each year that look at all possible angles of the industry," she said. "The lecturers took the time and effort to get to know everyone, meaning I didn't feel like just a statistic for the university, but as a valued student for the course itself.

"I've made a wide network of friends from the course and also throughout the School, as the programme often intersects through joint lectures, activities and trips with other study areas. I can now apply all of the knowledge and skills developed at UCLan to a dynamic, fast-paced environment within the industry."

During the course of her studies Freya's confidence developed, which encouraged her to pursue her career. She gained industry experience at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, a variety of Merlin Entertainments venues in Blackpool, The Galleries of Justice Museum and The City of Caves in Nottingham and also at On the Beach travel website in Stockport, and has utilised these experiences to secure a graduate role at British Airways.

Iain Hawkins, Head of Merlin Entertainments in Blackpool, presented the award. He commented: "Many congratulations to Freya for successfully graduating from her degree in International Tourism Management. It's fantastic to be part of her big day and I'm delighted to see more high calibre graduates entering the industry.

"Freya herself summed up beautifully how we should all progress in life and our careers, by saying people should do what works best for them as an individual. Push yourself, travel, but most importantly, enjoy what you do."