In summer 2024, after I graduated from my Media and Communications degree, I headed to Orlando to complete the Cultural Exchange Program in Walt Disney World Resort. Working at this program has been a dream of mine since I was a young teenager. I worked in Main Street Operations as part of the Guest Flow Team - ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for guests attending daily entertainment offerings including the fireworks, parades and cavalcades, as well as seasonal events such as 4th July and Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. 

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I earned my Mouseter's - a Disney Programs learning certificate - in 'The Magic of Storytelling', attended numerous class and backstage tours, and made the most of every opportunity I could. 

After delivering our team's final concept presentation, I knew I wanted to stay involved with the programme. I was thrilled to be asked to speak alongside my teammates about our NextGen experience at IAAPA Expo Europe 2023. It was a wonderful experience, meeting new people and encouraging others to get involved. 

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Since November 2023, I have worked with the programme's management team as Lead Editor. Using my experience from The Stag, I am responsible for editing the articles that are published on LinkedIn and the NextGen website, as well as other written communications that are broadcast to participants, alumni and to the wider community. 

NextGen Showcase is an educational programme for those learning where they fit int he themed entertainment industry. As part of 'Theme5', we responded to a fictional client brief for a new land and attraction. I was responsible for developing the concept, including writing the final scene-by-scene narrative of the ride storyline, and compiling detailed music design for the three finalised lands and attraction. 

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As part of this, I presented alongside my teammates at IAAPA Expo Europe 2022, where I developed my public speaking and networking skills. It was an all-round brilliant experience which has massively influenced my future direction in this industry.

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Check out excerpts of my writing, and scroll down to see our final project video.

I have volunteered at The Stag, the University of Surrey's student-run magazine, since my first semester in 2020. Beginning as a writer, I stepped up to Culture Editor in 2021, Features Editor in 2022, and have been Vice President and Deputy Editor since December 2022. 

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As a writer, I discuss new film, television and music, attend press events, write travel guides to student-budget friendly destinations, and have been awarded at the Student Publication National Awards 2023 for my Creative Writing. 

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As an Editor and Vice President, I encourage new writers to get involved with the society - through in-person Fresher's events, society activities, and monitoring the email inbox. I am proud to have had a significant role in making sure this historic magazine is passed down to future students.

In my third year of university I went on my placement year. This involved one semester of study abroad and one semester of internship. I worked at Hospiria, in Wandsworth, as a Product Marketing Intern. 

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I was responsible for onboarding new properties into the Hospiria PMS, and distributing them to platforms including Airbnb, Booking.com and PlumGuide. To do so, I became familiar with the channel manager RentalsUnited. 

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I did regular revenue management of the properties in the Hospiria portfolio with the use of PriceLabs, analysed their performance on platforms and adjusted listings where necessary for both the Hospiria and UnderTheDoormat teams. I also responded to reviews, collaborated with our international colleagues, and proofread marketing copy. 

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Six months passed by fast, but this step into working life was an invaluable opportunity that I took advantage of. Having completed this and NextGen Showcase simultaneously, I realised I am very good at time management.