UAF students bring Alaska to Disney World

students at disney world
UAF CBSM students pose outside of Walt Disney World. Photo provided by Ruth Prato.

The UAF College of Business and Security Management had a remarkable opportunity to partner with Disney's Imagination Campus at Walt Disney World in Fall 2023. In accounting class, Creating Theme Park Magic with Ruth Prato, students flew to Walt Disney World from Nov.12-18.

Students showed up in full blue and gold spirit, representing UAF through teamwork, collaboration and finding their inner leader. Through various workshops at Disney’s Imagination Campus including: Leadership the Disney Way, Teamwork the Disney Way, Immersive Storytelling and Theme Park Design, students got hands-on experience and gained skills that can be brought into any field.

Throughout these workshops, students were taught about Disney’s 5 Keys of Excellence, the values that guide Disney Cast Members to success. These values include: how to assemble a diverse team, maintain a positive attitude when facing challenges, and analyze the relationship between Cast Excellence, Guest Satisfaction, and Business Results.

“Our course goes beyond traditional learning; it's an immersive journey that extends beyond the confines of textbooks and lectures, transforming education into a dynamic and adaptive experience,” says Ruth Prato, Assistant Professor of accounting. “ This is where dreams and education intersect, where the enchantment of Disney serves as a catalyst for shaping the future of both academic and professional pursuits.”

The next opportunity to study outside of the classroom will be the UAF CBSM Costa Rica trip from May 6-20, 2024. Learn more here!