Travel and Tourism Good Route for Connie

 Connie McCrissican (16), from Bright, had thought about the A-Level route but after some quick research and a visit to SERC, she decided a BTEC Level 3 in Travel and Tourism was going to take her in the right direction.

Connie said, “At school, we were always geared towards A-Levels so I thought that’s what I would do.   I didn’t get all the grades I needed to go back to school but I was keen to progress.   I had no idea what went on in SERC until I came along to the college after my results and was met at the door of Downpatrick Campus with a friendly smile and some options.

“After a chat with some of the staff in the College, I went to speak to the Travel and Tourism lecturer and knew that would be the course for me.   College is very different from school.   There is a different atmosphere – the tutors are all lovely and full of encouragement, and it is nice being in a smaller class group.   I feel more confident since coming to SERC – even going to the shops in the town centre, the whole experience has given me a confidence boost.

Connie continued, “I am really enjoying the course. I am interested in the subject and that keeps me motivated.   Plus, there is variety, you are not in the class every day, but you are out on trips or there are guest speakers in to speak about different parts of the tourism industry and the pathways you can take career wise.   Right now, I think I would like to work as a tour operator, but I am keeping an open mind.   I hope to follow up this qualification with another one at a higher level and then get a job.

Connie concluded, “I didn’t know all my options and I would advise anyone to find out all the pathways they can take.   Go along to an open day and make up your own mind about college when you meet the lecturing and support staff.”  

Apply now for courses commencing September 2025.  Come along to our full-time open evening from 4.00pm – 7.00pm on Thursday 6 March at our Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards Campuses.