Engaged Employer: WonderWorks
WonderWorks, located in Orlando, Florida, brings together science and fun at their indoor attraction center. WonderWorks utilizes the summer work and travel program to support their business needs during peak seasonality by employing exchange visitors in guest-facing roles. Over the years, WonderWorks has hosted exchange visitors from all over the world and travelled to countries like Thailand and Turkey to recruit exchange visitors and gain a deeper understanding of their home culture.
The Work & Travel participants have brought unique perspectives and enthusiasm to our team. Their participation in these events has not only enriched their experience but also added a vibrant, multicultural dimension to our workplace. - Sarah Bensharood, HR Manager
WonderWorks ensures they are providing opportunities for their exchange visitors to engage in culture exchange by hosting events throughout the exchange visitor’s program. This summer, they have organized the following activities (contributed by Sarah Bensharood):
Orientation and Welcome Events:
Our BridgeUSA exchange visitors were warmly welcomed with a detailed orientation session, which included a building tour, trying out some out our exhibits and games and enjoying our pizza at the WonderBytes Café.
Mr. Freeze Ice Cream and Sundaes:
To cool off from the summer heat, our exchange visitors enjoyed a visit from the Mr. Freeze Ice Cream Truck, where they indulged in a variety of ice cream flavors and sundaes.
Fourth of July Celebration:
We celebrated Independence Day with a special treat from Five Guys Burgers and Fries. The exchange visitors enjoyed a delicious meal and experienced the festive spirit of the holiday with their team members.
Happy Sundae Day - Ice Cream Social:
To celebrate sundae day, an ice cream social was organized, providing an opportunity for the exchange visitors to connect with the team while enjoying various ice cream flavors and toppings.
National Paper Airplane Day:
Our exchange visitors participated in a fun-filled event creating and flying paper airplanes, fostering creativity and team bonding.
Pre-Shift Games, Activities, and Trivia:
Regular pre-shift games and activities are held to engage the exchange visitors along with our other team members, enhance their teamwork skills, and ensure they felt a part of our WonderWorks family. Depending on the day, trivia can range from WonderWorks facts to anything having to do with stem, and/or national celebrations. Pictures highlight our national bingo day celebration where team members completed an active exercise bingo which included experiencing exhibits throughout our building. We also had our fire extinguisher safety training with the Orlando Fire department.
National Selfie Day:
The exchange visitors joined in the celebration by taking selfies with team members and Professor Wonder, capturing joyful moments throughout the day.
