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"THE HAPPIEST INTERN ON EARTH?"

By Kim Saavedra (RPTA '13), Staff Writer

Stephanie Mastro, an RPTA graduating senior, has said her farewells to Cal Poly and run off to the “The Happiest Place on Earth,” otherwise known as Disneyland. For this self-described Disney aficionado who even completed her senior project on the world famous theme park, working as an intern at Disneyland is a dream come true. Yet, it took more than just dreams to land the position.

Out of the 3,000 applicants, Mastro was selected with only 350 other students to become part of Disney’s prestigious “College Program” in Anaheim, California. According to the Disney Jobs website, “This truly unique program allows participants to network with Disneyland Resort leaders, take part in personal and career-development classes, and build transferable skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, Guest service and effective communication. All participants will work in front-line roles at the Disneyland Resort, including Stores, Attractions, Food & Beverage, Lodging and many more."

In addition to joining a team of professionals with an international reputation for excellent guest service, and training, Mastro will receive perks such as free theme park admission and discounts on resort accommodations and merchandise. Mastro began her internship in mid-January and describes her experience saying, “So far I've had a blast!” She is currently working on Main Street USA at the Coke Refreshment Corner, The Main Street Cone Shop, and Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor. According to Mastro, “[She] get[s] to wear a really cute costume too” and encourages her fellow RECies to “stop by and say hello!”

Mastro will return from her 400-hour internship in June to walk at graduation and hopes to be an official employee for Disney soon thereafter. She looks forward to the amazing opportunities that will surely be provided by Disneyland and its programs. For current and future RPTA students looking to gain access to the “World of Disney,” Mastro has plenty of advice and recommendations. The RPTA senior applied twice before she was accepted and admits that, “The application process is kind of frustrating because it's all online and you don't really get to talk with anyone in person.” However, her most important suggestions are, “Don't be nervous about any negative things, everyone has a different interview. Make sure you smile when you talk; remember, they want 'Disney people.'” With her bubbly personality and almost “Disney perfect” persona, Mastro reminds all students that, “If you really want it, don't give up. It will happen when it's supposed to happen.”

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