Kate Tataryn - BSc (Hons) International Spa Management

Where I am now

Since graduating with my degree I have emigrated to Australia and I now live in Cairns with my partner Caleb and our beautiful baby girl, Mayzia.

Following a period of maternity leave, I have recently returned to work. I am currently employed as a Spa therapist in the Beauty Spa Club International (BSCI) Shambhala Spa adjacent to the Shangri La Hotel in Cairns.

Shambhala spa is inspired by the story of Shangri La and the mystical city of Shambhala, which in Sanskrit means 'place of peace and tranquility'. At Beauty Spa Club International, our philosophy is dedicated to invigorating the senses and awakening well-being.

I was impressed by the University's reputation in the spa sector

Whilst studying for my degree I took advantage of the available opportunities and great contacts that the University has to gain industry experience, including a year working abroad in Australia. Whilst applying for work, I found that employers were very interested in the course I was taking and were and were impressed by the University's reputation in the spa sector. Following my graduation I received several job opportunities both at home and abroad, including work on cruise ships and a spa manageress position in Spain.

Soon after completing my degree I was delighted to find out I was pregnant and made the decision to move to Australia with my partner, Caleb. Throughout my maternity leave I was able to put the research skills and considerable industry knowledge I gained from my degree to use working freelance for the British International Spa Association (BISA) and writing articles for hairandbeautyjobs.com.

Having my University degree helped me

The options available to me on completion of my degree were vast and my degree enabled me to walk straight into a job that fits around my life as a working mother. I am happy in my position and appreciate the hands on experience that I am getting and the time it enables me to spend with my daughter. I am not in any rush to reach a management position, but I know that when I am ready to return to work full time and attain management status, I will have both the hands on experience and the academic knowledge.

During my studies

In my final year at University I discovered that I was dyslexic and the support that the university arranged for me was fantastic. All of the lessons learned both academic and otherwise have truly been invaluable. I met some great people throughout my studies, many of whom I am still in contacted with today.