Trisha Dwyer

Research design and methodology skills Trisha developed in postgraduate Tourism studies have supported her through advisory, public policy, and research roles.

I’d been wanting to find a Master’s degree that would build on knowledge gained from several years living and working around the globe and provide a structure in which to integrate and further explore my interests. I had spent several years working as a tour leader throughout Asia and South America. I love travelling and learning about different cultures, discovering landscapes and nature through adventure activities. I became more interested in sustainable tourism and the potential of its role in poverty alleviation in developing countries, and the importance of tourism planning and policy in emerging destinations. I became more aware of travel motivations and how each traveller carries their own stories, knowledge, previous experience, and expectations when going to new destinations.

We were a small group in the Master’s programme so it was easy to connect with other students and lecturers. I enjoyed the challenge of going back to university as a mature student and being able to choose topics that I was interested in for assignments and research projects. One of the most important skills I gained was research design and methodology, although it was probably the one I struggled with most initially. I now appreciate its importance and keep a critical eye on whatever data is put in front of me. I have developed the ability to ask even more questions than before.

Having a Master’s degree and several years’ experience in the tourism industry has allowed me to step into advisory roles. Through Volunteer Service Abroad, I have conducted training for tourism businesses in Tonga, developed curriculum for a vocational training centre in Timor-Leste, and worked as a tourism advisor for a provincial government in Solomon Islands. In New Zealand I have worked in the public sector at the Department of Conservation where I advised on tourism marketing. I have since completed studies in public policy and currently work as a researcher at the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment in Wellington.

I have learned to follow my passion and think globally. Tourism is a multi-disciplinary field with openings in all directions.