A new six-month study abroad partnership with University of Florida’s (UF) Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute and the Walt Disney World Resort lets students take UF classes for academic credit while working for one of the world’s leading providers of family travel and leisure experiences.
The specially selected participants began their term on campus at UF — home of the beloved Gators. Next it was off to the Disney campus, bunking with international housemates and studying with Disney instructors.
The most valuable lessons are taking place outside of the classroom, applying knowledge in front-of-house operations throughout the organization and collaborating on a large scale Disney event as a capstone learning experience.
“Disney are the experts in creating a consistent experience for thousands upon thousands of people and getting it right every time,” says program liaison Ron McCarville, who collaborated with RLS grad and UF professor Lori Pennington-Gray (BA ’93) to bring the program to Waterloo.
“We are connecting our students with the best — to learn from the visionaries behind one of the most respected and beloved brands around the globe.”