Two BSC students Prepare
for Eight Month Academic/Work
Program at Walt Disney World

(Bluefield)—Bluefield State College students Zach Jones and Logan Shortridge are ready to embark upon the learning experience of a lifetime.  The BSC School of Business students will participate in Disney’s College Program, a work-integrated learning opportunity at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, FL.

Dr. Steve Bourne, BSC Professor of Business, began a dialogue with the Walt Disney World’s Director of College Programs earlier this year.  “A series of discussions followed, and I held a few information students for our students when I returned to campus,” Dr. Bourne explained.  “Zach and Logan were selected to participate in the program—it’s a wonderful opportunity for them to live, earn income as they work, and interact with a very diverse group of students.  They will study at Disney University and attend the Disney Executives-in-Residence lecture series, where they can select from a wide range of very relevant topics.  At BSC, we are also creating a ‘Disney Exploration Series’ course that permits students to earn academic credit for participating in the lecture series.”

“I’ll be attending the Marketing/Communication” lecture series,” Shortridge said.  “I’ll hear from several CEOs and other Disney managerial employees as they discuss their roles, educational background and job insights.  Zach and I can network and make a variety of important business connections.”

Jones, whose career goals include working at Disney World, is also excited.  “I want to meet as many people as possible,” he added.  “The consensus among students who’ve completed the program is that everyone loved it.  It is an excellent resume booster.”

The Disney College program also offers courses on-site so that students can remain on pace for earning their degree.  Program participants also enjoy the experience of working for Disney and living in an on-campus apartment complex that houses other Disney College program students from around the world.

Dr. Bourne also observed that BSC is in the process of adding a “Business Internship” course which students can use to earn credits.  Both Jones and Shortridge will also be taking distance learning classes from BSC while at the Disney College Program.

“Without our faculty, our Disney College opportunity would not be possible,” Shortridge stated.  “We will meet people from different backgrounds and cultures.  It’s a great opportunity.”

 May 16, 2008