Interesting look at the Disney college internship program. I wonder how many continue on with the Disney Company
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Disney recruits interns for magical experience
10/21/2006 10:15:37 AM
By Sandi P. Beason
Daily Journal
STARKVILLE – Even custodial workers have a magical experience through Disney’s college internship program.
Recruiters were on the Mississippi State University campus this week, touting the benefits of spending a semester at the Orlando, Fla., Walt Disney World resort and theme park. “I did it in 1997, and I’ve been with the company ever since,” said recruiter Julie Couret. “Disney is just part of who I am. It’s the foundation of my value system. It empowers you to meet your dreams.” Students who participate can attend class, live at the park and could work in 18 different types of jobs, including food service, lifeguarding, merchandising, operations and custodial. Couret encouraged students to sign up for things they might not normally be interested in, like picking up trash around the park. “The custodial workers have freedom,” she said. While others work in restaurants or shops, custodians can walk around and talk to guests while doing their jobs.
Building life skills
Unlike most part-time or summer jobs, the Disney program gives college students opportunities to network and build life skills, Couret said. Nearly 20 students attended the program Thursday, and more were at the first presentation on Wednesday. Alina Young, a junior landscape architecture major, said she came because “Disney World is my favorite place.”
“I want to go to work there,” she said. “It would be the best job.”
Elaine Baxter, a senior public relations major, recently participated in the program, working in food service. Now, she said, she has a job waiting for her at Disney when she graduates. “It was an opportunity to enhance my people skills,” she said. “I was recommended for management. They made me a trainer.” Baxter’s case is not unique, Couret said. Professional internships are also offered, and candidates who went through the college internship program are more likely to be picked for those slots. College interns at Disney make $6.67 an hour, and earn college credit for courses taken there. “When people see this on your resume, they know what it’s about,” Couret said. “Employers value people who understand Disney service.”
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