Disney has been on campus all week discussing possible opportunities for internships with interested students.
For years, the Disney College Program has been providing students with the opportunity to be a part of a unique internship experience.
Supported by University Housing, the Disney College Program hosted two information sessions on Monday and Tuesday, led by recruiter Melissia Goehring , to provide curious students with answers to their questions.
“[We] want to inspire you to inspire others,” Goehring said.
In addition to living and working at a Disney site, participants in the program are able to meet guests and cast members from all over the country and network with leaders and top dogs of the company.
Megan Stanley, a sophomore in English, was a part of the Disney College Program in the Spring of 2010. Stanley lived and worked in Orlando, Fla., as a full service food and beverage associate at the Whispering Canyon Café in the Disney World community. Stanley credits her Disney experience with changing her life.
Unlike some recruits, Stanley did not take classes during her time in the program because State doesn’t accept credits from “Disney University.” Although she already spent seven months in the Disney program, Stanley plans to return for the following fall semester.
“It’s such a good resume builder,” Stanley said.
During her next stint at Disney, Stanley said she will opt for a different job and to take classes. In order for the classes taken to be credited to her State transcript, Stanley said she will use the University of North Carolina, Greensboro as the middleman to transfer credits.
Though it requires students to uproot themselves and experience new situations, Stanley said the program is something she will never regret. Her time with the Disney College Program gave her the know-how to live on her own and be independent.
“The best part of the experience was meeting people from around the world and learning valuable skills for the workplace. I learned to go out and do things. I learned to be independent,” Stanley said.
The program provides exposure to many different fields of study. From engineering to English, the program fosters skills and tools for professional work and study. Participants are given the opportunity to cultivate their personal interests and broaden their cultural knowledge.
Hannah Berry, a sophomore in biochemistry, went to an information session to see what the program was all about. She said the experience might be a possibility for her.
“It sounds like a really cool opportunity,” Berry said.
To further possible career paths, Michelle Phillips, a sophomore in mechanical engineering, said she is looking forward to applying for the engineering internship in Orlando, Fla., that will be from June 2012 to January 2013.
Phillips, who aspires to be an “Imagineer ,” plans to apply sometime in Feb., and is prepared for the web and phone interviews.
“My ultimate goal is to one day design a ride or many rides at Disney World,” Phillips said.
Her interest and experience in the field of mechanical engineering is what Phillips hopes will boost her chances of being a Disney engineer, or “Imagineer.”