THE MAGIC OF METAMORPHOSIS: FROM THE DISNEY COLLEGE PROGRAM TO BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION
Have you ever wondered where your passion for Disney could lead you? The magic of The Walt Disney Company spans far beyond theme parks with teams that focus on film and TV, merchandise and even conservation. For one former Disney Programs participant, her passion for conservation led her from a Disney College Program into her dream role.
Over a transformative ten weeks, Program participants engaged in monarch butterfly research with Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment’s Conservation team. Juliana Marcotrigiano, a proud College Program alum, is a current Conservation & Science Tech on this team that is committed to working to protect wildlife and build a diverse global community inspired to celebrate the magic of nature together.
Juliana started her journey as a Wilderness Explorer in the fall of 2023 before transitioning into her current full-time role. “I absolutely loved my time on a Disney Program,” Juliana shared. “As a Wilderness Explorer, I got to educate guests every day about conservation, which I am incredibly passionate about. I had the opportunity to share the role Disney has specifically in conservation.” Her passion for conservation only grew from there as her Program experience shared her future career path.
Disney Programs offers a multitude of learning offerings focused on career development. Participants have the opportunity to network and learn from leaders across the Company, which for some, may even lead them to their dream role. This was true for Juliana. “The learning offerings allowed me to discover all different aspects of The Walt Disney Company. I attended a Disney’s Animals, Film and Television (AFTV) offering on my program and learned all about Disney Conservation and animal sciences. Attending that learning offering inspired me to apply to my current role,” Juliana reflected.
The Butterfly Conservation series was the first of its kind, taking flight with innovative science and creating lasting memories. Teaching the offering was a full-circle moment for Juliana; she found great joy in sharing her passion for the environment with current participants.
“The participants are amazing! They are all so passionate, willing to learn and want to see the science up close with you,” Juliana shared. “It was also fun to participate myself, we were all learning new things about monarch conservation and care together. I have loved participating and getting excited with the rest of the group,” Juliana recalled.
Juliana’s experience on the Disney College Program led her on an incredible journey, turning her passion for conservation into an impactful career. “I met amazing people from around the world, shared my passion for conservation to guests and created lifelong memories that I will cherish forever,” Juliana shared. “I also had the opportunity to develop my skills, network and learn from professionals across The Walt Disney Company. I am very thankful for this experience,” she reflected. Juliana left a lasting impact on participants and continues to care for all the nature across Disney property.
To learn more about The Butterfly Conservation series, flutter on over to our YouTube channel. Click here to view the full video.
