The Disney College Program at the Walt Disney World Resort is a unique experience that uses a combination of education and work experience to develop students into well rounded individuals. While there I had the opportunity to:
*Build transferable skills that include relationship building, problem solving, and written and verbal communication
*Explore networking opportunities
*Participate in several educational opportunities that involved leadership and communication
* Participate in several volunteer events
Education
One really exciting thing about Disney was they had MANY classes and lectures you could be a part of. They focused on anything from writing a resume, acing an interview, and even how to professionally network. I took advantage of as much as i could. I participated in the 3 lectures that were mentioned above and 3 other classes that were offered online: all dealing with how to be an effective leader.
Journal Entries
While at Disney I kept a journal that outlined what was going on with my educational and hands on experiances at that time. Below are the posts i had written....
January 27, 2010
Today I arrived in Orlando! I am very excited about what lays ahead. I know I am going to encounter many experiences that will not only educate me as an upcoming professional, but shape me as a person. I found out that I am able to participate in many events that involve networking with other participants in the program. Maybe I will be able to make a lot of new friends this way!
February 10, 2010
Well, I have been here for about 2 weeks or so, and it is going great! My four roommates are from all over the United States. It is really exciting learning about how the cultures are different. Aside from my roommates, being in Florida is a big culture shock as well! I am learning to adapt to MANY different customs that are down here. As for my work, I am in the merchandising department in the Magic Kingdom Park. I consider myself in a guest relations position more or less because I interact and assist hundreds upon hundreds of guests each and every day.
March 1, 2010
A lot has gone on here at Disney in the past month. First, I found out about a full time job as a manager and I applied for it and already scheduled an interview. In addition, I have participated in 2 lectures and 3 online e-learning classes. The first lecture taught me how Disney markets its brands and services to the general public. It is amazing to see the techniques in action! They use a combination of emotional appeal and humor to connect to all different types of publics. The next lecture taught me how to write an effective resume. I must say, I feel that my resume is much more detail oriented now! The three online e-learning classes have focused on leadership. Disney is an amazing company that offers an amazing training program. I learned so much about being an effective leader just by taking a few online classes. I am scheduled to meet with my managers to talk about how I can develop professionally in a few days….i will keep you posted!
March 10, 2010
Well, only about a month left in the program. I have been working 55-60 hour work weeks. Defiantly no time for sleep. I have been very busy with my work schedule, scheduling meetings with upper management and having mentor meetings with my managers. Yesterday, I met an individual by the name of Theo Porter. He is one of the head managers at the Magic Kingdom. The nice thing was he was able to connect with me because he went through the same program I am going through about 15 years ago. We spoke for roughly 30 min. on what I can do to make the most of my program and how to develop into a, “grade A” professional. He also recommended that I read a book called, “Now Discover Your Strengths” by Marcus Buckingham. Needless to say, I will be going to the Disney library as soon as I can!
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