Working at Disney is a dream for many people, and for a lucky Bond University student it became a reality this year.
Bianca Bruccoleri is currently studying a Bachelor of International Hotel and Resort Management and was successful in gaining an internship to work at Disney World Florida for six months this year.
Bianca returned recently and shared about her experience:
“I had visited Disney World on holiday when I was younger and always wanted to go back, but never thought it would actually happen.
I was encouraged to apply for the internship by the Head of School Elizabeth Roberts. The internship fits perfectly with my studies as there is a real focus on preparing you to work overseas.
I was the first student from the School of Hotel, Resort and Tourism Management to get a placement at Disney so it was pretty exciting. When I arrived I met students from all around the world who were also completing the internship.
I was trained to be a lifeguard while I was there and spent most of my time ensuring the guests were safe and having a good time at the resorts.
It was a great opportunity as it enabled me to interact with lots of people and get an insight into the guest experience at a Disney World.
It has also had a major benefit for me once I returned as I am now a certified lifeguard and am working at Wet n’ Wild on the Gold Coast.
The experience was incredible and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity to do it. I met so many people and was able to learn about the hotel and tourism industry. I even have a Disney manager as a referee for future job opportunities.
I would love to go back and work in the corporate side of operations, in marketing or revenue management. I know my time at Disney will be a huge benefit for my career once I graduate. It has given me work experience overseas and a network of contacts around the world.
If you ever get the opportunity to complete an internship, my advice is to do it.”
For more information about the Disney internship opportunities, please visit www.disneyinternationalprograms.com.
