Holly Rae, 2014 Special Programs student from Canada, returned to FSU this semester to complete an internship with the CGE’s Special Programs department as part of her bachelor’s degree from the Limerick Institute of Technology in Ireland.

Through FSU’s Special Programs, students from international partners study hospitality management or intercultural communication, and they develop intercultural competencies through work-integrated learning at Walt Disney World® Resort.

Rae applied for the Disney program during her first year at St. Lawrence College in Canada, and it was her first experience interacting with international students.

“If I had to choose one piece of advice to pass on to international students, it would be to step outside of your comfort zone,” said Rae. “Make an effort to meet the students you didn’t come with. You’ll get the most enriching experience by doing that. Also, food was a really great way to connect with people. It’s a fun way to try new things. When we were at Disney, we would have weekly potlucks. It was a great way to learn about other people and their cultures.”

During Rae’s six-month internship with the CGE, she will be preparing for international students from Canada; China, Macau; Korea; and Mexico to arrive at FSU this summer and will guide them through the same program she enjoyed in 2014.