Catching up with student-turned-tutor Laura, who is also a Disney Alumni!
Laura Osbourn has had quite the journey, starting as a student, earning a place in the Disney Exchange Program, and now a tutor!
Back in 2018, we spoke to a graduate who had returned to ITC to complete her level 5 Diploma with the intention of joining the Disney Exchange Program.
She made it to Disney, but the pandemic threw a spanner in the works and she had to return to New Zealand – so we interviewed her again in 2020!
However, that wasn’t the end of her story. After many ups and downs and a lot of hard work, Laura Osbourn returned to ITC again, but this time as a tutor.
As we continue with our ongoing ‘Adventures after Disney’ series, we felt it was a great opportunity to interview someone who has not just successfully applied for the Disney Program, but someone who will also be helping current students prepare for their applications as well.
With that said, here’s the latest updates on graduate, Disney alumni, and tutor Laura Osbourn!
What was your fondest memory of ITC?
How the tutors always made me feel so confident in my learning abilities. They wanted the best for me, which made me want the best for me too.
If you could give any person considering applying for the Disney Cultural Exchange Programme any advice for their application, what would that be?
Put all your passion for this program on the page and into that interview. This isn’t the time to be modest, show Disney how you can wow your future guests.
What were you most nervous about before embarking on your Disney adventure?
I was nervous I would get so homesick I would want to go home after working so hard to get there. When I got homesick, I would go to the parks, hug a character or two, and remember why I was there.
I know there will be many, but if you could let us know the top highlights of your experience all those years ago?
All of the Disney parties! The welcoming events, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, A Very Merry Christmas party. My role gave me complimentary tickets and I made the most of them all.
Did Disney change you at all? If so, how?
For the better. I am much more confident in myself and much more willing to put my hand up for opportunities and meet new people.
How did your experience better prepare you for the workforce on your return?
I am much more positive I can correctly handle customer complaints and difficult situations. The training influenced my verbal expressions, body language, personal presentation all for the better.
What has your career pathway been since Disney?
I came home due to COVID, after the first lockdown I worked for THL Campervans as an International Booking Host for 3 years. I am now working for ITC in the Schools team.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
Still working at ITC, positively influencing students, and encouraging them into an exciting job in travel and tourism.
Where will your travel & tourism journey take you?
Laura’s journey in travel and tourism is an incredible one. It shows us that even with something as disruptive as a pandemic, there will always be new opportunities on the horizon.
Not to mention, you could be tutored by Laura, who isn’t just passionate about ITC and the Disney Program, but has been through both herself, so is in the perfect position to help support you through the same steps!
ITC is enrolling now for courses starting in July, so be sure to get in touch to learn about our qualifications and how they can be the launching pad for your career.
Campus Study – college@itc.co.nz 0800 TOURISM (0800 868747) or https://www.itc.co.nz/contact-us/
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