Adventures after Disney: Meet Amina Tipuna
Hear from our latest graduate in our ‘Adventures after Disney’ series!
The August intake for the Disney Exchange Program is fast approaching as we continue our ‘Adventures after Disney’ series, where we chat to ITC graduates who were part of the program to see what they’re up to now.
This week, we heard from Amina Tipuna, the graduate who feels that the experience changed her a lot, helping her gain independence and preparing her for adulthood.
Here’s more about Amina’s amazing story in her own words!
What was your fondest memory of ITC?
My fondest memory of ITC was probably making the friends that I did. I’m still friends with them to this day. Also deepening my understanding of different cultures and getting to understand people, values, beliefs etc.
If you could give any person considering applying for the Disney Cultural Exchange Programme any advice for their application, what would that be?
Be yourself 100%. Don’t be afraid to show off your culture as well. Show them how proud and passionate you are. Try to add your own personal twist on your application as well, this will help you stand out.
What were you most nervous about before embarking on your Disney adventure?
I think I was most nervous about living overseas when I was so young. Being 18 at the time, I was a little afraid. However there was 24 hour security around the apartment complex and security checks around the complex throughout the day so that’ll put your mind at ease.
What were the top highlights of your experience 5 years ago?
One of my favourite moments from the program was all the fun activities they would plan for us. Such as Starlit splash, Sunrise yoga, The winter formal etc. It was a fun way to make connections with other people participating in the program and also making connections to those from other countries.
Did Disney change you at all? If so, how?
Disney changed me a lot. I think I’ve learnt a great deal from living and working over there for a year. I gained a lot of independence and it helped prepare me for adulthood.
How did your experience better prepare you for the workforce on your return?
Although it’s tough to prepare for any role in the workforce, my experience helped me in various ways. I found that it’s helped me in my personal life as well. I’ve become better with my time management, becoming more understanding and patient. I’m always trying to see the positives in any situation.
What has your career pathway been in the last 5 years?
So far I have worked in a few hotels. Right now I’m working as a Food and Beverage Supervisor at Sudima Auckland City. Although it has never been my overall goal, it’s been a pivotal part in my work journey. I’ve learnt so much and still continue to learn in my job role. Covid 19 did affect certain pathways I wanted to venture out to such as cabin crew or working on a cruise but things are getting better nowadays so I may have to take that step forward.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5?
The next 5 years I hope to be working for Disney as part of their Cruise line. Working for QANTAS or Emirates as cabin crew has also been a goal for me as well.
How ITC can help you get a place in the Disney Exchange Program
The Disney Exchange Program is an exciting time of year at ITC as we help students and graduates apply for this internationally renowned program. Our college and qualifications are well known in the industry, which has helped many students get their place in with Disney.
However, we also help to prepare students and graduates by working on their CVs together, by talking them through the interview process, and supporting them every step of the way. The same goes for applying for jobs, as our support continues long after you’ve graduated.
We’re enrolling now for our July course start dates, so don’t hesitate to get in touch to learn more about ITC, our qualifications, and where they can take you!
Campus Study – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.itc.co.nz/contact-us/
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