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LOOK OUT DISNEYWORLD, HERE THEY COME!

By Hannah Baker (RPTA '13), Staff Writer

Growing up, most kids had big dreams of going to Disneyland and experiencing the so-called 'happiest place on earth.' Fortunately, for RPTA students Amy Lepp and Ali Bickel ('12), these dreams have recently become a reality. Lepp and Bickel have both accepted internship opportunities through the Disney College Program this Spring Quarter at Disneyworld in Orlando, Florida. Through this program, they will be interning for 4 months, learning the ins and outs of Disney resorts, and getting the chance to feel "like a kid" again...only this time as a professional!

The Disney College Program is open to all college students interested in networking and personal career development, but as one might imagine, competition is very tough to receive an internship offer. The fact that these two best friends both received offers and were placed at the same resort is simply amazing. Read more.

The Disney College Program not only offers a chance for one to meet cast members from all over the world, but it also helps to build character. Each applicant must select a particular 'role' of choice that is of interest to him or her. The many roles offered include, but are not limited to, hospitality, food and beverage service, and concierge work.

"Each role you can choose from is basically like an entry level job," Lepp comments.

In Lepp's case, she will be taking on the hospitality role. With this, she will be doing some front desk work, bell hop assisting, and helping out at the concierge desk. Another perk that comes along with the internship is the opportunity to take classes while participating in one's role. Many of the classes either specialize in business, marketing, or specifically Disney.

The program begins April 9, 2012 and ends August 10, 2012. Through that time period, Disneyworld offers housing in 4 different apartment complexes. Although the housing is not entirely free, the 30-50 hour work weeks will help to cover the small costs of living for the interns.

After one completes the internship, they have the option to reapply and continue working. Lepp plans to do some traveling after the internship ends in hopes of utilizing some discounts on the Disney Cruises. Bickel is busy lining up other internship and job opportunities upon her return.

"I have always wanted to work for Disney. I chose to intern at Disneyworld because I can get into all of the parks for free and expose myself to fabulous networking opportunities that will hopefully help boost my career options after the internship," Lepp states.

One of the costs that often accompany internships, especially those 3000 miles away from home, is having to leave behind all of your family and friends. Bickel and Lepp get the added benefit of experiencing it together.

We wish you both the best of luck; Disneyworld will never be the same!

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