Brock University students participating in University of Florida/Walt Disney Academic Exchange Program.
Brock University students participating in University of Florida/Walt Disney Academic Exchange Program.
Brock University students are learning at the place “where dreams come true.”
Since 2013, eight Brock students have travelled to Walt Disney World thanks to a unique agreement with the University of Florida/Walt Disney Academic Exchange Program.
It offers Brock students the opportunity to study at the University of Florida during the summer, followed by an internship at Walt Disney World during the fall term.
Students receive significant on-the-job experience in Disney parks and resorts, allowing them to network with leaders, take part in personal and career development classes and build transferable skills such as problem solving, teamwork and communication.
“There are many benefits of completing an international exchange, and when you can add an internship/work component to the study experience, the experience truly becomes high impact learning,” said Christina Bosilo, Manager, International Learning Programs.
Jenn Barton, a third-year Sport Management student, recently finished her first semester where she took business classes with a diverse group of students from all over the world.
“This program has definitely expanded my cultural perception/awareness. I would not say this is a surprise, because going into this program I knew that I would meet many people, co-workers, and guests from different cultures,” she said. “The most valuable thing I have learned thus far is that everything is a team effort and that you need to keep an open mind. This applies to school, work and life in general.”
Jenn Barton
Dr. David Fennel, Department of Tourism Management, played a key role in the partnership between Brock and the University of Florida. He believes that it’s a great opportunity for Brock students to complement their learning with one of the most recognized names in international tourism.
“[Programs like these] give students the chance to broaden their horizons through the intersection of theoretical and applied knowledge,” and seeing that the program is organized to fit degree requirements, students don’t have to worry about falling behind on their credits, he said. “Value added programs such as this one are becoming increasingly important in university settings.”
Jessica Sauer, a fourth-year Recreation and Leisure student, adds: “The best part about working for Disney is you meet people from all over the world. It is an incredible feeling. This program has shaped goals for my future; it has prepared me for many different situations.”
Brock is one of only four Canadian institutions that have this agreement with the University of Florida, and the program remains competitive, as only 15 spots are available to Canadian applicants.
