UQ student Ellen Cunneen has set herself an ambitious goal: to experience every ride at Walt Disney World’s six theme parks in the next six months.
The international hotel and tourism management student has just started an internship at Walt Disney World in Florida, and plans to make the most of the experience.
The 19-year-old from Albany Creek is working at a resort restaurant, greeting and seating guests, taking reservations, reconciling income, analysing revenue reports and paying servers. She also hopes to work in the resort’s head office.
It was a dream come true for Miss Cunneen, who did not even expect to be accepted into the program and given a chance to meet hospitality and tourism students from all over the world.
"After receiving my acceptance letter, I was filled with excitement. I was starting this new adventure and chapter in my life,’’ she said.
"It is a great opportunity to work for the largest tourist destination and one of the biggest convention sites in the world.
"I have been a fan of Walt Disney. I remember waking up early every Saturday morning to watch Saturday Disney with my brother. Some of my greatest childhood memories are watching Disney movies such as The Lion King, Peter Pan and Hook.
"I never thought growing up that I would have the opportunity to work at Disney World. I can’t wait when I am older to tell my children that I worked at Walt Disney World.’’
The internship will allow Ms Cunneen to take the theory she had learned at UQ and apply it to the operation and management of a bustling business.
She hoped the placement would give her a better idea about which field she would like to enter on completing her degree next year.
"I think I will have a greater advantage over other applicants when applying for positions within the hotel and tourism industry as it can be very competitive and relies heavily on experience,’’ she said.
Although the internship has taken Mis Cunneen away from home for the first time, her family hopes to travel to Florida for a visit during her six-month stint.
Media: Erik de Wit (0417 088 772)
