Sat May 24 12:50:00 UTC 2025: ## UCF Knights Play Key Role in Universal’s Epic Universe

**Orlando, FL** – Universal Orlando’s highly anticipated Epic Universe theme park isn’t just a thrilling addition to Central Florida’s entertainment landscape – it’s also a proving ground for the next generation of theme park innovators. Numerous students and alumni from the University of Central Florida (UCF) have played a significant role in the park’s development, gaining invaluable experience and shaping its creation.

WESH 2 News was granted exclusive access to witness the collaboration between UCF and Universal, highlighting how this partnership is shaping students’ futures.

UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management, located less than a mile from Epic Universe, offers a specialized undergraduate program in theme park and attractions management. Dr. Carissa Baker, who leads the program, notes the fortunate timing of its launch. “We just started our program in fall of 2023, and it was just perfect timing,” Baker stated. “It started with our students brand new in this program and then seeing a dirt lot across the street.” Students are able to witness and study the park’s transformation firsthand.

For aspiring theme park designers like UCF senior Elisa Saldias-Leon, the proximity of Epic Universe is inspiring. “People are like, ‘Oh, my dreams are, like, in my hands.’ And my dream is within like a minute, like two-minute walk that way,” Saldias-Leon exclaimed.

Furthering the collaboration, UCF’s main campus offers a themed experience graduate program, led by Professor Peter Weishar. This program includes the unique UCF/Universal Creative Lab, where students work directly with Universal Creative executives on attraction ideas.

Recently, WESH 2 was present as students pitched their innovative concepts to Universal Creative, showcasing the talent and vision emerging from UCF. Weishar emphasized the significance of the partnership, providing students with a direct preview of their future careers. “Ten, 20 years from now, they can say I was part of something that changed the industry,” he said.

In fact, approximately 40% of students in the themed experience track go on to work for Universal Creative, filling roles such as show set designers, architects, show writers, project managers, and creative directors. Notably, many UCF alumni contributed to the opening of Universal’s newest park.

The collaboration between UCF and Universal Orlando offers a remarkable opportunity for students to learn, create, and ultimately shape the future of the themed entertainment industry. As Epic Universe prepares to open, the influence of these UCF Knights will be felt throughout the park, solidifying Orlando’s position as the theme park capital of the world.

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