Disney World program provides experience
By Stephanie Szuda
IV Leader Staff, Feb. 21, 2003
The Walt Disney World College Program is recruiting on campus once again from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26 in Room E-213.
The program offers a paid internship and an opportunity to go inside a world-famous resort and meet students from around the world. All majors and all college levels are eligible and college credit opportunities may be available. Housing is also offered.
Ashley Mahnich of Peru was accepted into the program last year and spent several months in Florida. The responsibilities of her job entailed greeting visitors and also performances. This included two shows, five parades, specials, dining and everyday meet and greets.
Mahnich said that although there were several pros and cons to the job, the pros outweighed the cons. She said it was a great work experience, with great people and a wonderful company.
She also loved living in Florida and having no classes, although classes are offered but are not mandatory. There was the rent that had to be paid even on what she said was her low salary, and she sometimes had to work shifts that no one else wanted.
Mahnich learned to be an avid people watcher. She saw how people acted in certain situations and how employees handled them. She learned how to work in a major company, what managers look for in an employee and the loopholes of the system.
She also learned to live with five other people from other parts of the country, which can teach a great deal of patience and understanding.
“I would completely and whole heartedly recommend the Walt Disney World College Program to anyone. It is a wonderful experience. Yes, you do have to work, but that’s what you are there for. You have lots of time to play, but keep in mind that it isn’t all play. The company keeps a strict eye on the interns because they are expendable. Pros over cons — a great experience!”
The recruitment effort on the IVCC campus is coordinated by Kathy Glascock, director of IVCC’s Career Planning and Placement Center.
“We are entering our third year of this partnership with Walt Disney World as they look to fill a number of spots for members in their College Student Program,” she said.
To qualify for the Walt Disney World College Program, students must be enrolled in college, must have completed at least one semester of college and must be in good academic standing. Interviews for the college program positions are conducted immediately following the noon presentation.
Students interested in learning more should visit http://wdwcollegeprogram.com or contact Glascock at 224-0214 or e-mail her at kathy_glascock@ivcc.edu.