School of Social & Environmental Sustainability

Fransiska's Story

Born and raised in a small town in Central Java, Fransiska is now living in Glasgow, Scotland, having graduated with Distinction from the University of Glasgow with her MSc Sustainable Tourism & Global Challenges. She has recently been awarded the Geographies of Leisure and Tourism Research Group Dissertation Prize for her Postgraduate thesis entitled:

”Analysing the natural seasonality pattern in Edinburgh and Kirkwall in Scotland, and Reykjavik in Iceland from 2012 to 2022 through the holiday climate index”

Fransiska shares her experiences at the University of Glasgow here:

"I have always been interested in studying tourism for my master’s degree. Moreover, the allure of the UK and Scotland has captured my thoughts, and I dreamed of studying there one day. While exploring the University of Glasgow’s offerings, I came across a course that incredibly intrigued me - “Sustainable Tourism and Global Challenges.” This programme boasts a range of captivating units, including Sustainable Tourism, Wildlife Tourism & Environmental Responsibility, the Economics of Circular Tourism, Tourism Sustainability & Climate Change, and Sustainable Heritage Management. These units cover highly interdisciplinary and vital subjects, remaining at the forefront of current trends. The course is enriched by numerous field trips, guest speakers, and workshops, which enhances its practicality. This programme will significantly contribute to my future tourism, place planning, management, and social policy career.

My second source of motivation stems from being awarded the University of Glasgow International Leadership Scholarship, which supports my tuition fees. This scholarship opportunity is too valuable to pass up.

One of my favourite courses was “Tourism Sustainability and Climate Change,” an elective taught by Dr Steven Gillespie, the Programme Director of the BSc Environmental Science & Sustainability. Before enrolling in this course, I was aware of the significant impact of climate change on human life, but I had limited knowledge about its effects on the tourism industry. However, completing this course showed that tourism and climate share an interdependent relationship with reciprocal connections. This relationship encompasses both direct and indirect factors, including extreme events, inter-annual variability, and seasonality—topics that later became the focus of my dissertation.

During the course, we delved into various subjects, including group projects centred around carbon emissions. Additionally, on individual projects, the students crafted a climate change report for a selected tourism destination. I don’t have a Biology or Environmental studies background, but Dr Gillespie adeptly structured the course content, making it accessible and engaging. Consequently, this course stands out as one of my favourites.

I am also immensely appreciative of the opportunity extended to me by my dissertation supervisor, Dr Lizanne Henderson (the Programme Director of Sustainable Tourism and Global Challenges), to participate in the Researcher-in-Residence position abroad, partaking in an expeditionary cruise with the esteemed and award-winning Canadian tour company, Adventure Canada.

Reflecting upon my time aboard the Ocean Endeavour, I am only filled with gratitude for the chance to partake in this journey. The data I have gathered constitutes a substantial portion of my master's dissertation, and the memories and friendships forged will endure for years to come. Beyond the research, I was fortunate to witness a plethora of wildlife, encompassing marine mammals and Atlantic seabirds, as well as breath-taking sunrises and sunsets at each destination. The time spent on a research vessel is intensive, devoid of weekends or rest days. The demands are both physical and mental, yet the experience is undeniably fulfilling. The environment was characterised by unwavering support, professionalism, and productivity.

I recently relocated from Melbourne, Australia, to Dumfries, Scotland. I find Dumfries remarkably laid-back and tranquil, fostering an environment conducive to focused studying. Comparing Dumfries to either Melbourne or Glasgow proves challenging. Dumfries aptly caters to a student’s requirements. The campus boasts lush, scenic surroundings, and our classes consist of a tight-knit community of 20-25 students at most.

Dumfries appeals to me due to its unhurried pace, enveloped by splendid natural landscapes. I relish exploring the Dumfries and Galloway area and indulging in nature walks. Should the need arise for shopping or excursions to different locales, I can conveniently access Carlisle (England) via train, bypassing the necessity to travel to Glasgow invariably.

For fellow students considering a move to Dumfries, I advise embracing a more leisurely lifestyle, particularly if transitioning from a bustling metropolis. Rest assured, despite the leisurely pace, vibrant nightlife persists. Furthermore, the region offers ample access to national parks and maintains well-established connections to both Scotland and England.

For fellow prospective students from Indonesia, my advice is to thoroughly research the programmes, delve into the specifics of the individual courses, and seek insights from fellow Indonesian students who have previously studied at UofG. Approach your studies with an open and humble mindset while striving to maintain a balanced life that includes academic pursuits and extracurricular activities, part-time work, or travel experiences. Embrace new opportunities as they arise, and don't shy away from stepping beyond your comfort zone."