AUT communications graduate, Molly Dagger, is heading to the U.S to take part in the annual Disney World Cultural Exchange Programme.
Tertiary students from more than 12 countries will live, learn and earn at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, working in frontline roles including operations and hospitality.
The 22-year old is excited to take up a five-month internship that will see her learning from leaders at the world-renowned entertainment company and meeting people from around the world.
Next month, she will start work as a lifeguard, ensuring the safety of guests at different water features across the resort.
“I applied because I want to challenge myself. I want to live independently and learn more about myself in the process. I believe you can only grow when you feel uncomfortable,” says Dagger.
“I’m looking forward to the cultural experiences and the people I will meet.”
Dagger has been working at AUT’s Office of Pacific Advancement, both as a student mentor and Oceanian navigator, providing support and advice through internal academic and leadership initiatives, and programmes for high school leavers such as UniPrep.
“I have learned so much during my time here in the office, namely being able to appreciate different perspectives and ways of thinking,” says Dagger.
“I’m from a different heritage than most of the team, but in our office it doesn’t matter where you come from, because we are all connected in the work we do.
“As long as everyone is sailing together towards the same island, we will always be family.”
Dagger graduated with a Bachelor of Communications in 2016.
She plans to return to study and pursue a career in education.