Honors LLC Students Explore Disney Magic and Theme Park Design

On Friday, Feb. 21, 2025 students in the Tampa Judy Genshaft Honors College Living Learning Community (LLC) embarked on a unique excursion to Walt Disney World. In less than a minute, all 16 spots for the trip were claimed by eager University of South Florida participants. The students spent a full day at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, where they explored the park and took part in a private workshop led by a Disney Imagineer.

Behind the Scenes

The day began with an interactive tour of Magic Kingdom, where students learned about the key elements of theme park design and how they contribute to an immersive guest experience. Their guide, a Disney Imagineer, led them through private cast member areas, showing where employees take breaks outside the view of park guests. They also observed how transitions between lands, such as Frontierland and Adventureland, are carefully designed to be seamless.

Students also gained insight into why Disney is considered one of the most immersive theme parks in the world. The Imagineer explained how structures and attractions are painted in camouflaging colors, such as “Bye Bye Blue” and “Go Away Green,” to help them blend into the sky and surrounding landscape.

“I thought learning about the hidden meanings behind the design details of the theme park was absolutely amazing!” said LLC member Sarieli Sribhashyam.

Designing ‘Judyland’

During a hands-on workshop, students applied these design concepts by collaborating to create their own original theme park —Judyland. They learned that every Disney Park features an iconic landmark, such as Cinderella’s Castle or Epcot’s Spaceship Earth. Inspired by this, the students chose USF President Emerita Judy Genshaft herself as the icon for their park, designing attractions and food stalls that reflected Bull pride, including a bull-themed carousel.

Following the workshop, students explored Magic Kingdom’s attractions, entertainment, and dining. They rode popular attractions such as TRON Lightcycle Run, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.

The trip also provided a chance to sample a variety of Disney foods. Reaghan Ard discovered chicken and waffles from Sleepy Hollow and enjoyed the “savory and sweet mixture” of flavors, while others indulged in classics like churros, ice cream, and seafood.

The Most Magical Place on Earth

The excursion gave LLC students a behind-the-scenes perspective on theme park design, deepening their appreciation for the creativity and strategy behind the Disney experience. From meeting a Disney Imagineer to designing their own park, students immersed themselves in a world where imagination and innovation drive the magic.

The Honors LLC regularly hosts excursions for its residents and plans to expand the Disney trip next year to accommodate more participants. In addition to off-campus experiences, the LLC offers career workshops, exclusive meetings with college leaders, and enhanced access to advising and classroom resources.

The Making of 'Judyland'

Honors LLC students planning their theme park, “Judyland,” representing the global engagement and experiential learning opportunities cultivated by the Judy Genshaft Honors College.