BCIT celebrated its first-ever participation in the Disney Cultural Exchange program with an inaugural group of 20 students selected to embark on an exciting three-month summer internship at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, beginning June 3. This program, introduced by Kenton Low, Dean, BCIT School of Business + Media, promises to be an unforgettable and transformative experience.
While born and raised in Vancouver, Kenton has a rich history with the Walt Disney Company. He has worked in various departments, including the iconic Walt Disney Imagineering. Kenton’s connection to Disney is more than professional – it’s personal. Every member of his family has worked with or at Disney at some point. “Disney has a magical impact on people around the globe, creating memories to last a lifetime,” Kenton shared. His personal and professional experiences with Disney inspired him to bring this opportunity to BCIT.
A unique opportunity for BCIT students
This year, students from the BCIT School of Business + Media, School of Computing and Academic Studies, and School of Energy will participate in the paid internship, established in 1981, to provide work experience at Disney Parks for university and college students. The program now attracts international students from around the world.
Living and working at Disney World
Students will live on dedicated campus at the edge of Disney World property. At Disney, employees are referred to as “Cast Members,” reflecting the company’s view of its parks as one big show where everyone plays a part. Instead of jobs, they have “roles,” and instead of uniforms, they wear “costumes.” Roles include:
- Attractions: Operating rides or theater shows.
- Merchandise: Handling sales in theme parks, resorts, or Disney Springs.
- Food and beverage: Working in food prep or sales at quick-service locations.
- Restaurant greeter and seater: Welcoming guest at themed, full-service restaurants.
- Custodial: Interacting with guests and maintaining park cleanliness.
- Lifeguard: Ensuring safety at resorts or water parks.
A lifetime of skills and memories
Participants will gain invaluable soft skills including effective communication, teamwork, customer service, time management, problem-solving, active listening, and adaptability. This experience will also enhance their resumes, opening doors to future opportunities for people with Disney’s world-class training.
Reflecting on his motivation for championing the program, Kenton said, “The Disney Cultural Exchange Program fosters cross-cultural understanding, personal growth, and independence. The hands-on work experience in a world-class company is unparalleled. Soft skills are power skills. As a parent of program alumni, I know firsthand the benefits BCIT students will gain. What better way to enrich your life than working at the happiest place on earth?”
The Disney Cultural Exchange Program offers BCIT students an extraordinary opportunity to create unforgettable memories and build a foundation for a successful future. Applications for the 2025 program will open in November 2024.
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