Sunderland graduate leads in sustainable tourism in Devon

Laura Hartshorn from the University of Sunderland, who completed her studies in Sustainable Tourism, has taken up a role as sustainable tourism co-ordinator at a rewilding estate in Devon.

Her enthusiasm for conservation began during her time working with a sea turtle charity in Kefalonia, where she saw the positive impact of eco-friendly travel.

Laura Hartshorn working with a sea turtle charity (Image: Sunderland University)

Ms Hartshorn said: "The world is in a dire state so we need to do all we can to minimise our impact, involve local communities to make that wider impact, and make sure wildlife and ecosystems aren’t destroyed."

She emphasised the importance of sustainability for future generations.

Ms Hartshorn said: "It’s basically about leaving things better than we found them so future generations can experience them too."

Before studying at Sunderland, she studied filmmaking at another university and created a documentary about green living on the Isle of Raasay.

Laura Hartshorn doing field work (Image: Sunderland University)

Afterwards, she decided to focus her studies on sustainable tourism.

Ms Hartshorn said: "I absolutely loved my time in Sunderland."

"All the lecturers I had were brilliant, friendly people and the university’s offerings were great and close to the accommodation. 

“My brilliant tutors have supported me in many ways throughout my time in Sunderland, providing support and encouragement when I was applying to placement and jobs.” 

During her studies, she secured a Young Ranger Placement with Northumberland National Park.

Ms Hartshorn said: "During the placement, I spent time shadowing and aiding rangers in their varied jobs."

The hands-on experience helped shape her career direction.

Ms Hartshorn said: "It’s helped in my career development so much, adding outdoor skills to my CV and helped me think about what I wanted in my career."

In her new position in Devon, she will support both guest experience and conservation projects.

Ms Hartshorn said: "I think sustainable tourism and sustainability matter because they’re about protecting the places we say we care about.

"If we want to enjoy these landscapes, animals and habitats in the long term, we must look after them now."

Ms Hartshorn is one of hundreds of students celebrating their achievements at the University of Sunderland’s winter graduation ceremonies, held at the Fire Station.

Dr Ian Morton, senior lecturer in tourism and events and programme leader for MSc Sustainable Tourism, said: "Laura was full of enthusiasm from the outset for building a more sustainable tourism sector.

"At the University, we work with students like Laura to deepen their detailed knowledge of the discipline and give them the skills to flourish in the sector."

Anyone interested in studying Sustainable Tourism at the University of Sunderland, find out more on its website.