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GO Student Ambassadors, International Summer Programmes

Meet the GO Ambassador 2026/27 – Elouise Clarke

9 October 2026
Global Opportunities Globetrotters

Global Opportunities Globetrotters

Name: Elouise Clarke

School, degree programme and year of study: ENCAP and JOMEC, Journalism, Media and English Literature (Ba), third year.

Host destination: Walt Disney World, Florida, USA

 

Your experience abroad

Tell us about your global opportunity—where did you go, and what did you do?
During my time abroad, I participated in the Disney Cultural Exchange programme based in Walt Disney World in Florida. This program allowed me to work across the theme parks, water parks, hotels and resorts on Disney property. By the end of my program, I managed to work in every theme park twice, both waterparks and three hotels other than my home location at the Grand Floridian. My role was mainly retail based, serving hundreds of guests from all around the world and ensuring the customer service expectations of the Disney company were met for each and every interaction.


What surprised you the most about your host country/programme/time abroad?

I was surprised at how large the US felt. I got used to walking over half an hour for basic necessities like groceries and my commute to work each day was around an hour each way. While public transportation was not easily available, disney programs have set up a neat bus service to and from all of disney property and Cast members were able to use all forms of on site transport free of charge! The furthest I ventured away from disney property was a two hour uber ride into downtown Orlando.

What is the one thing you miss about your time abroad?
Definitely the “convenience” culture around snacks, especially cold and frozen drinks. Due to the climate, it was a life saver to be able to walk into a 7/11 convenience store and buy a litre electrolyte slush and some salty snacks for a couple dollars. Working long hours into the night while still enjoying early morning park-hopping needed as much fuel as possible and this was my favourite method!

 

A bit about you!

What’s something you’re passionate about outside of your studies?
I love anything that keeps me moving! I cycle as a form of transportation but also for fun, as well as slowly getting better at running (a very slow process). Any excuse to visit new parts of the city and claim hidden routes, I’m in!

What’s your favourite place on campus/in Cardiff?
I have a soft spot for the Bute building, especially it’s library! There’s nothing like finding a cosy nook by a window and getting through my to do list.


If you could live anywhere in the world for a year (a dream destination), where would it be—and why?
The Netherlands for sure! I love a cooler climate and a walkable/bikeable city that isn’t too far from the nearest hiking trail.

What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you?
I’ve lived half of my life away from the UK! I lived in Malta from when I was 7 to when I graduated high school and most of my family are maltese. I had a lot of catching up to do when I got back home!

Reflections and Advice

Describe your global experience in three words
Nostalgic, Busy, Magical

What advice would you give to students considering a global opportunity?
Research. Research. More research. I can guarantee you that you will find something that fits your needs and someone who has spoken about it online. The Internet is so helpful in finding what an experience is actually like and whether it suits you.