“Imagine trading in the familiar rhythms of your hometown for the sun-kissed magic of Orlando, Florida, where fairy tales come alive and wonder waits around every corner. For international student, [Name], the thrill of studying abroad was only the beginning of an unforgettable adventure that would lead her to discover a sense of belonging in the most unexpected of places: the Happiest Place on Earth. As she navigated the challenges of cultural adaptation and language barriers, [Name] stumbled upon an opportunity that would change the course of her journey forever – a job at the Walt Disney World Resort. In this heartwarming tale of self-discovery and perseverance, we follow [Name] as she finds her forever home amidst the enchanting atmosphere of Disney, where dreams really do come true. From navigating visa requirements to finding her tribe among the Disney cast members, get ready to be inspired by [Name]’s remarkable story of turning a temporary assignment into a lifelong passion, and discover how the magic of Disney can
How One International Student Found Her Forever Home at Disney – Disney.com
The Academic Exchange Program and its benefits for international students
Mariana’s experience representing her country at Magic Kingdom
The importance of cultural exchange programs in today’s globalized world
Disney’s Global Impact: Creating a Sense of Community
How Disney brings people together across cultures and borders
The role of Disney in fostering global connections and understanding
The impact of Disney’s global reach on its fans and customers
Creating Lasting Impressions: Disney’s Power to Inspire
How Disney’s magic can inspire and motivate individuals
The importance of making unforgettable memories in our lives
How Disney’s experiences can be replicated in our own communities
Sharing the Magic: Bringing Disney Home to Your School or Community
How to bring Disney’s magic back to your school or community
Ideas for creating Disney-inspired events and activities
Tips for sharing your own Disney experiences with others
After returning to Mexico to complete her Hotel and Restaurant Management degree, Mariana’s heart was still in Orlando. She applied for the Academic Exchange Program, where she earned a Hospitality Certificate with the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management while working in Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland in a merchandise role. She also took full advantage of the program’s offerings, from resume-building workshops to a wedding planning spotlight, participating in Canoe Races Of the World and more. Another highlight is representing her country during a cultural presentation at Magic Kingdom, where she and other international participants introduced leaders to holidays not celebrated in the U.S. The experience didn’t just build her resume; it shaped her life. “Working for one of the top-ranking hospitality companies gave me real-world experience that supported my internships and continuing education back home,” she shares. But Disney had an even more personal gift for Mariana: she met her husband while working in a Christmas shop on property. Now, they’re happily married with three children. Looking back, Mariana describes her entire experience in one word: unforgettable. “Everything that has the Disney name makes you feel like a child again,” she says. You get to create that same feeling for the guests and even your fellow cast members.”
You get to create that same feeling for the guests and even your fellow cast members.” Today we hear from Valentina Giannattasio, a sophomore Dance and Marketing double major and Rowan Blog Digital Content Contributor who hails from Argentina. In this first-person perspective, Valentina talks about the opportunities that she was met with at this University as a student and dancer. Making memorable friendships and accomplishments, she dives into her experience.
Making Unforgettable Memories
Since I first arrived in the USA, Rowan has been my home away from home. My first year as an international student far exceeded my expectations. Not only did I become the fundraising and community service chair of Rowan University Dance Team, but also the service chair of Rowan Dance Extensions. Being a member of two different organizations gave me the opportunity of creating wonderful experiences and memories that will last forever, such as going to Disney for UDA nationals or hanging out together to watch The Swan Lake (ballet). Besides, because we all share similar passions and ideas, we build strong bonds that soon after developed into astonishing friendships. Today, they are the ones that help me overcome the difficulty of living far from my home and family.
Author Valentina Giannattasio Rowan has also provided me with my first job opportunity. Here I learned how to develop my skills and techniques at the time of taking and editing photos as well as how to communicate openly with different students. As a photographer for Rowan Enrollment Management and Marketing Team, I have been able to work with amazing people that helped me feel comfortable and adapt faster to the huge cultural change. In addition, I have been able to get involved on campus while photographing students and faculty. There is no doubt that so far this job and the amazing people I have been working with were an exceptional part of my college experience.
Double majoring at Rowan has been a mind-blowing experience. As a Marketing major, I have had the opportunity to join multiple speeches, fairs, showcases, etc., that have helped me get involved with current successful professionals around the area. Not only that, but as a business major, I had been able to learn more about myself and my future goals. In addition, as a Dance major, I have been able to explore my passion and discover what modern dance and art mean to me. I have grown not only as a dancer but also as a performer as I had the opportunity of being cast in the Fall (2021) Dance main stage production “Making Good Trouble” and Spring 2022 Choreography Showcase. Rowan received me with open arms! I had been able to achieve multiple goals in the last year. It is fair to say that this would have never been possible without all the support I have at Rowan.
I am excited to see what my future at Rowan holds, as I am sure that each year is going to be better and better. Like what you see? LEARN MORE Story by: Valentina Giannattasio, dance and marketing double major Produced by: Jada Johnson, political science major Photography by: Valentina Giannattasio Header photo: Valentina (second from left) and fellow Dance majors pose in front of the art installation “Time Sweeps” outside of Discovery Hall.
Did you have a must-share #DisneyPrograms experience or go #BeyondDisney by bringing the magic back to your home or school? Share your program memories by uploading your photos and telling us your stories. You might find yourself featured in a blog!
Conclusion
As we conclude the heartwarming journey of international student, [Name], who discovered her forever home at Disney, we are reminded that the magic of Disney extends far beyond the realm of fantasy. Through her story, we’ve seen the power of inclusivity, diversity, and community come alive, as [Name] found a sense of belonging and purpose within the Disney family. From navigating cultural differences to embracing new experiences, [Name]’s tale is a testament to the transformative impact of Disney’s welcoming environment.
The significance of [Name]’s story lies not only in its inspiration but also in its implications. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the importance of fostering global understanding and cultural exchange cannot be overstated. Disney’s commitment to creating a sense of home for its international cast members serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even in unfamiliar surroundings, one can find a sense of belonging and community. As we look to the future, it is imperative that we continue to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, not only in the workplace but also in our daily lives.
As [Name] so eloquently put it, “Disney became my home, and its people became my family.” This poignant statement serves as a powerful reminder that, no matter where life takes us, it is the connections we make and the memories we create that truly define our sense of home. As we close this chapter on [Name]’s remarkable journey, we are left with a profound realization: home is not just a physical place, but a sense of belonging that can be found in the most unexpected ways. And for [Name], that sense of belonging was found at the Happiest Place on Earth – a true testament to the magic of Disney.