Helen Willis has literally moved on after graduation – relocating to Texas in the USA to pursue her dream career. The Events Management graduate from Houghton-le-Spring had always worked in hospitality and retail, but when a friend dragged her to a University Open Day inspiration struck.
“My friend was signing up for a course and I was reading the Prospectus while I was waiting – and the Events Management degree jumped out at me.
“In my second year I assisted in the organisation of the Penshaw Bike Fest – I was super shy prior to this and it transformed my life on a personal and professional level. In my third year I went on placement year with White Lodging in Austin, Texas. I got to travel and see parts of the world I had only ever seen in magazines or on TV– it was life-changing; it was magical.
“I have been offered a graduate placement in Texas, working as a supervisor in the Marriott Hotel. I cannot wait to travel back to the city I fell in love with.
“I believe I’ve seized all the opportunities available to me here. I cannot express enough my gratitude to the University. I’ve been challenged, changed, and, ultimately, I’ve grown as a person."
Helen received her First Class Honours Events Management degree at the annual summer graduation ceremonies.
Sharon Wilson, Programme Leader of Events Management in the University’s Department of Tourism, Hospitality and Events, said: “Helen is an exceptional student in many ways. She comes with natural intelligence and a unique personality which has developed greatly during her time on the course.
“It would be fair to say that Helen has succeeded in the way we imagined, with First Class honours.
“Despite sometimes having self doubt, she has risen to the challenge of a placement abroad and an excellent candidate in national competition The Eventice, Helen has proven that she can now face the future with bright prospects ahead.”
White Lodging Services has more than 30 hotel properties across the state of Texas, representing multiple Marriott and Hilton Brands.
Helen’s contract with the chain runs for a year, she then plans to spend a month travelling the USA, before returning to the UK, with a wealth of experience behind her.