From Studying the Business of Tourism Academy at High School, to ITC Graduate Working at Disney!

Posted on 22/07/2026 by Hayley Clark

Sometimes, we meet a student while they’re still at high school as they take our Business of Tourism Academy. Then we cheer them on as they become full-time students with us at ITC – then we celebrate as they are accepted into their dream role working at Walt Disney World in Florida!

That’s the story of ITC graduate Meleena Beatty, who discovered her love of travel and tourism early, and has been going from strength to strength ever since.

We chatted with Meleena to ask all about her time with ITC, her experience on the Disney Cultural Exchange Program, and more. 

What was your first experience with ITC through the Te Tai Tokerau Business of Tourism Academy, and what inspired you to continue your studies with us after high school?

When I first started with the Academy in my 13th year of high school, I was simply exploring my love for tourism and seeing if I could picture it in my future career. I fell in love instantly, being in an environment where everyone around me shared the same interest in travel. It was a great addition to my last year of high school working towards something I was truly passionate about, with a teacher and other students sharing that passion.

What stood out most to you about the Academy, and what key skills or lessons did you take away?

I definitely took away the variety of the industry in all the diverse activities we got to experience. Opening up my mind to a big community within travel. I took away the connections I made with everyone and the fun I had while doing it. I couldn’t wait to continue on with the full-time course and bring the learning into a full-time focus.

How did the Academy help shape your career goals and confidence?

I gained so much confidence with my future goals, having supporting teachers and learning all the possibilities that are out there. I had once thought I could only become a flight attendant with these studies, but now I have endless ideas and goals with adventure tourism, internships with Disney World and travel agencies.

What were some of your favourite highlights from studying full-time with ITC in Whangārei?

Full time study with ITC is something I hold close to me as it shaped me into the confident and aspiring person I am today. When I look back onto the course I can’t help but think of all the laughter and family-like atmosphere we had inside the classroom. We were really a big family all dedicated to our studies, helping and supporting each other through every learning topic. We couldn’t have done all that we did without our teacher Mike.

How do you feel your studies with ITC helped prepare you for opportunities in the tourism industry?

The faces of ITC carry so much knowledge and a caring heart, their main focus is to support every student that walks through their door. There really are endless opportunities and not once did I feel lost while studying with ITC.

ITC prepares you for post study job placements, connections with adventure tourism and top hotel names, all if you want to stay in New Zealand. Also international working holidays which can give you a taste of travel while getting paid.

Whether it’s working at hotels overseas or even at Walt Disney World, there are so many international opportunities available. I felt comfortable in the hands of ITC placing and helping me with my next step. I did choose the Walt Disney World 6 month program in Florida, United States. This was the help of my teachers, suggesting it as something that would best suit my personality and what I enjoy within tourism, fast paced work and right in the midst of travel. My studies had prepared me to move across the world and experience tourism first hand. Every step of the way, applying to the job and my visa applications they were by my side.

How did you first hear about the Disney Cultural Exchange Program, and what made you decide to apply?

I did get super lucky with my placement, when I applied you were able to rank each possible position from most preferred to least. I had favoured the attraction role in my in-person interview. To my surprise, a month before departure I did get this role! It wasn’t until you arrived at the Disney College accommodation where you were told your location of work. I was ecstatic when I learned I got the usher role for the Fantasmic Show, Walt Disney World’s biggest nighttime spectacular.

Although I was nervous training made me super comfortable, I met other fellow international students from Australia and New Zealand who were starting on the same day as me and we all learned together. My job was truly amazing, being able to ‘make magic’ for guests every single day. My role was a mix of welcoming, safety and crowd control. I was an usher so I kept up happiness and bright energy for guests of all ages before an exciting show, making sure things were running smoothly and efficiently, sometimes including public speaking and then cleaning when necessary. The role was all about working together as a team to run a big operation.

Can you tell us about your role at Disney? What did a typical day look like, and what were your main responsibilities?

My typical workday started from 4/6pm lasting to 10/12pm at night, which gave me the whole morning to go to the parks and have fun before my shifts with the complimentary park tickets. You work with a diverse group of people, some who have been with the company for decades and others who are just like you coming from abroad.

Every location and role you have amazing leaders and coordinators who support and guide you throughout your 6 month journey. This really did make all the difference, no matter any concerns you had, whether they were about work or personal, there was always someone to talk to. The accommodation was amazing, staying with hundreds of others who were the same age and experiencing the same 6 months to 1 year. The accommodation holds lots of activities to meet new people, celebrate holidays and even excursions to different activities outside of the Disney area.

What were some of your favourite memories or proudest moments from the programme?

My favourite memories of the program were the friends I made along the way, being able to explore the United States and then at night put on and allow guests to experience one of the best shows of their trip. There were so many special moments you get to have one on one with people. Making someone’s day or someone’s year with the power we get from simply wearing a smile and a name tag.

Looking back, how do you feel your studies with ITC helped prepare you for the Disney Cultural Exchange Program?

This job is a dream and something I would suggest to anyone who enjoys putting a smile on people’s faces. My studies with ITC prepared me for the scenarios I would endure and customer service skills I would need to handle any situation.

What advice would you give others thinking about studying with ITC?

I hope I’ve inspired someone today. Whether your dream is to work at Walt Disney World, become a travel consultant, join the adventure tourism industry, or explore another path, ITC opens doors you may never have considered. Taking that first step and enrolling was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. If you’re passionate about travel and willing to give it a go, I can’t recommend the full time course enough.

ITC: The Launching Pad for a Career in Travel and Tourism

Meleena began her journey studying the Business of Tourism Academy in high school every Friday. Here she learned the basics of travel and tourism, and became hooked on a future in the industry.

 Her next step was a natural one, to becoming a full-time student at ITC. Then, she followed the footsteps of many ITC graduates as she landed a coveted position at Walt Disney World.

We’re already excited to see what’s next for Meleena – but what’s next for you? Thinking of taking your first step towards a career in travel and tourism?

Take that step with ITC. Contact us here to learn more!

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