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vol 12 | issue 1One day, as a junior at Grand Valley State University in Grand Valley, Michigan, I was leisurely walking on campus when I came across a purple and green flyer that read, “Recruiting for next semester! Apply today!” Little did I know that those words would not only change my next semester but the next few years of my life.
I participated in the Fall 2013 Disney College Program as a merchandise hostess at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort. Only two months into my program and I found one of my favorite roles: package running! A package runner was the main source of recovery for lost or damaged items that Guests had purchased in the parks. Not only did I get to experience all of Walt Disney World Resort property but was also able to make many magical moments for Guests. It was the kind of magic I imagined making ever since I heard about the program – and I was hooked.
After I finished my program, I went back to school and earned an exercise science degree with a health-fitness emphasis. I knew that my short time as a Cast Member was just a tease and felt the pull to come back. I began a Professional Internship as an Exercise Coordinator at our Cast Member gym, Mickey’s Cast Fitness Center, soon after graduating. I assisted with personal training, Cast Walking League, volleyball and softball teams, and our biometric team, as well as teaching Zumba and other fitness classes. My favorite part of the role was traveling to other work locations and instructing Cast Members how to incorporate exercises and healthy behaviors into their typical workday.
I thought my journey with Disney was ending, but it was just getting started. I networked with my fellow Cast Members and began working the week after my internship as a hostess at Senses Spa at the Grand Floridian Resort and Saratoga Springs Resort. After making friends and experiencing
amazing Guest interactions at the spa, I moved on next to the opening team of the Marketplace Co-Op store at Disney Springs.
One day when I was working at the Co-Op, a friend of mine dropped in to say hello and mentioned he was working next door. Later on in the week, I saw him at the Boardwalk, then again at Magic Kingdom. Confused, I asked what his role was since it is rare to work so many different locations. Fast forward seven months and I embarked upon the best training I have ever received and started my new role: Disney Vacation Club Advance Sales Associate (ASA). I immediately fell in love with my role. As I began to excel in the sales position, I saw the vast opportunities that were right at my fingertips. I networked within DVC and found my dream job by continuing my ASA role on our beautiful Disney cruise ships. Instead of the one-on-one interaction I had with our Guests on land, our team of four to five Cast Members on the ship educates Guests by giving group previews. Currently, my role averages half the month on one of our ships and the rest in our offices at Saratoga Springs. (Yes, that does include lots of summer travel and exotic destinations!)
Although I have only been with Disney for a relatively short time, I feel like my combined experiences have set me up for success in my current role. I was able to get to know both front and backstage areas and realize the true magic of Disney (and the hard work from our dedicated Cast Members that creates it). I can now share that magic with Guests and guide them toward a Disney Vacation Club experience that they can share with their families. From day one, I always said that I would never live in Florida for an extended period. “The summers are way too warm!” or “Oh, probably just a few more months here,” I would tell my friends and family back home. Now, after four years of “just a few more months”, I call this place home and still love introducing friends and family to the ever-changing fantasy that surrounds us at Disney! It is encouraging to work with one of the largest and best-reputed companies in the world. Whatever role you are in, I encourage you to keep pursuing, keep dreaming, and keep the magic alive!
It’s the journey that changed me…
2013
Erica Swan
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January 2017You’ve waited days, months or even years for this moment: your Disney program is beginning! This will be one of the most exciting times in your life and we are happy to welcome you to this experience like no other. You are now a part of our Disney family and an even more specific one: the Disney Internships and Programs family! You’ll find that many leaders and professionals began their career journeys right where you are today, so take advantage of all
your program has to offer and enjoy the most magical time of your life.
You’ll make magic, friends and memories that will last a lifetime. You’ll learn about yourself, those around you and how a little pixie dust can go a long way. You’ll make dreams come true and see yours through, too. You’ll climb mountains, fly to Neverland and stare down Stormtroopers. You’ll take classes, learn about our company and discover more about yourself than you ever thought you would. All these things will come together to create an unforgettable experience, changing your life and adding to the legacy of The Walt Disney World Resort.
And that, my friends, is where the magic lives.
Welcome to your Disney program!
Whether it’s a comment, question or concern, there is always someone or something to turn to during your program. Wondering when an event is or need more details? Have a question about your living experience? Need help writing a paper or your resume? Chances are your answer lies in one of the following resources: Disney Internships and Programs Service Centers – When in need of assistance, answers or information, the Service Centers are here to help. All four Service Centers, located at each complexes’ clubhouse, can help with roommate relations, proof of residency, language testing and more. In addition, they are also your first stop for maintenance requests, borrowing cleaning or sporting items, or picking up packages. The Service Centers are open 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. Disney Learning Center at Vista Way – The Disney Learning Center (DLC) has all
your education and entertainment needs. They have a large selection of books, movies and computers for you to check out and use and offer assistance with homework, exam proctoring, essay writing, resume construction and many other resources. Be sure to also check out Clubroom 13501, a space for you to relax, watch a movie or utilize the WiFi.
Follow @DisneyHousing on Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and YouTube! - Get connected by following @DisneyHousing on all our social media platforms. Updates, photos and news will be shared daily. Who knows? You might even see your Instafamous self on our accounts as part of the #ParticipantSpotlight series or in an event photo. Make sure to use #DisneyPrograms during your program adventures so we can follow your story, too!
The Hub – Add the Disney Internships and Programs module to your “Work” tab on the Hub. The Hub is a one-stop shop for all company information as well as information on your program. Event photos, Weekly Emails, Programs News, inspection schedules and many more sources of information are included on our Hub module.
Weekly Email – Check your inbox every Friday to stay up-to-date on what is going on in Disney Housing. Each week you will receive an email from wdw.housing.communications@disney.com that includes event information, sign-ups, Cast Member only offerings, trivia, news, Disney history and more.
You already know the Disney Learning Center (DLC) at Vista Way has DVDs, books and games you can borrow for free, but did you know you don’t even have to leave your apartment complex to rent new items? The DLC will now deliver requested media to your Disney Housing complex Service Center. Call, email or download the LibraryWorld app to remotely checkout a resource before 2 p.m. and Learning Center Cast Members will bring the resource to your Service Center before 6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday and 4:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
If you choose to use the app, search LibraryWorld in your app store and select “DIP Library” in the information tab. The digital library can also be accessed at opac.libraryworld.com. The DLC can also be reached via phone at 407-827-1986 or by email at wdpr.vista.way.education.library@disney.com. Also, please note that the DLC will have updated operating hours beginning Jan. 15. They will be open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday and Saturday.
In need of assistance? Here are
your go-to program resources!
New at the Disney Learning Center!
Think about what’s important to you and what you hope to accomplish on your program. Do you want to make lifelong friends, network for future employment, make magic for Guests or maybe just satisfy a college requirement? Your program is what you make of it, and it’s never too late to fulfill your dreams! So whether you’ve been here for weeks already or you arrived yesterday, here’s some program resolutions to guide you on your Disney journey in 2017:
Attend Housing events: Sure, Winter Formal and Starlit Splash are incredible opportunities you won’t find anywhere else, but there’s so many more events to go to throughout the year. Test your luck at grocery BINGO, binge watch movies at one of our movie nights or take a trip to a destination around Central Florida.
Make magic as a Guest: As a Cast Member, you’re constantly being approached by Guests looking for advice. There’s almost always a good opportunity to make a little magic for them, even if it’s as simple as handing them a celebration button. However, there’s a special type of fulfillment you feel when you’re able to make a little magic for someone when you aren’t working. Easy ways to start are by paying it forward or letting a family take your viewing spot for a show.
Get enough sleep: This might seem simple, but it’s very easy to burn out if you’re constantly working and then spending every moment of your free time at one of our parks or resorts. We want you to take in as many opportunities as possible, but make sure you find time to balance other important aspects of your life. There’s no harm in spending a day chilling and watching Disney movies – we’ve all been there!
Work in different locations: If you want to change your perspective or expand your network, this is a great way to do so! Plus, it can be fun to rock a new costume for a day! We know New Year’s Resolutions are hard, so try including people in your plans to help hold you accountable to those changes. Sit down with your roommates or co-workers, and create a list of what you hope to accomplish on your program in 2017. And remember, “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.”
New year,
new adventure:
Program New
Year’s resolutions
Eye-Drive Experience trip
Jan. 3, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Vista Way pavilion
You’ve already been to Walt Disney World, and now it’s time to see some other quintessential destinations in Central Florida! Join us as we visit the Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and the Sea Life Aquarium, some of Orlando’s newest attractions. Plus, you’ll have time to explore the area’s shops and restaurants. The cost of this trip is $45 and includes your ticket and transportation. Sign up on DORMS to reserve your spot.
What’s Up Wednesdays
Jan. 4, Vista Way Jan. 11, The Commons Jan. 18, Chatham Square Jan. 25, Patterson Court
Beginning this month, from 10 a.m.-noon every Wednesday, the Service Centers are inviting you to join them for a casual get together to get to know the friendly Cast Members who work there and discuss what’s on your mind. Snacks will be provided.
Blue Man Group show trip
Jan. 12, 4 p.m., Vista Way pavilion Join us in celebrating 25 years of Blue Man Group! Experience the mystery, humor and thrills of this special show that combines art, technology and music. For $45, we’ll provide your ticket and transportation. Plus, to give you an even greater chance at experiencing some of the
excitement of City Walk, we’ll be arriving two hours prior to show time. Sign up on DORMS to reserve your spot and join the more than 25 million people worldwide who have experienced this captivating entertainment like no other!
Service Celebration
Jan. 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Chatham Square field
“The most fantastic magical things can happen, and it all starts with a wish!” If you’re departing Jan. 20 through March 2, your wish has come true - it’s time for you to celebrate the completion of your program! Minnie, Pluto, Goofy and the big boss himself, Mickey Mouse, will be there to congratulate you on a job well done. Let your conscious guide you to sign up on DORMS before 10 a.m. on Jan. 12 so you can pick up your graduation certificates, celebration Mickey ears and small gift box at the event.
Disney Showcase Session: Spotlight on Guest Relations
Jan. 19, 2-4 p.m.
Chatham Square classroom #4 Do you love helping our Guests? Do you envision a career in hospitality? Is your favorite color plaid? Then don’t miss this exciting opportunity to learn what it’s like to provide world-class service to our Guests in a Guest Relations role. Current Leaders and Cast Members from this line of business will be there to tell their stories and offer advice. Sign up to attend through DORMS.
‘Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children’ Movie Night
Jan. 22, 2 p.m., The Commons clubroom Stay peculiar and join us for an evening at Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. Dive into a world where the extraordinary, fantastic and powerful isn’t unusual and weird is a good thing. Popcorn and soda will be provided even if you aren’t so peculiar.
Jammin’ in the Jungle Welcome Event
Jan. 26, 6-9 p.m., Chatham Square field Get to know strangers like you as we welcome you to the start of your program! Tarzan and Jane will be swinging in to greet you as you enjoy delicious food and jam to tunes from the DJ. So trust your heart, let fate decide and join us in the jungle!
Disney Showcase Session: A Day in the Life of a Character Performer
Jan. 26, 2-4 p.m.
Chatham square classroom #4 Walk a mile in their overlarge, brightly colored, sometimes furry shoes and learn what it’s like in the role of character performer! Cast Members who currently perform in this role will be there to tell you what a day in the life looks like for them and offer advice for those interested in the role. To sign up, visit the DORMS event calendar.
Disney Showcase Session: Disney Heritage, Florida Project Phase 1
Jan. 27, time TBD Magic Kingdom Park
Take a walk through Magic Kingdom Park to learn about Walt’s final dream. Discover how we got from the creation of Disneyland to opening day of the Walt Disney World Resort. In addition, you’ll discover projects that never came to be and the storytelling of Walt and Mickey’s milestones will be shared along the way. To sign up, visit the DORMS event calendar.
Sunrise Safari Grocery BINGO
Feb. 2, 10 a.m., Chatham Square field Good morning, Orlando! Grab your safari hat and get ready for a wild excursion through some of the toughest rounds of BINGO you’ve ever seen! Don’t worry, our Events team will guide you on your hunt for the winning prize: a huge supply of groceries. Also, keep in mind there’s no furniture in the wild, so make sure to bring a blanket or something else to sit on during the event.
Mystery Character Meet and Greet
Feb. 3, 6-9 p.m. The Commons clubroom
Love is in the air and in The Commons clubroom! Character meet and greets are what make life divine (sorry, Cinderella – we’re sure finding Prince Charming comes in at a close second), so join us for our next mystery event. Whoever it is that shows up, we’re sure you’ll be feeling the love that night.
Look for more details in your weekly email, channel HTM: Housing the Magic and on Twitter and Instagram (@DisneyHousing) about these and other upcoming Housing events.
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CommunicatorDisney Films: “Beauty and the Beast”, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2”, “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales”, “Cars 3”, “Spider-Man: Homecoming”, “Star Wars: Episode VIII” and “Coco.”
New to Parks and Resorts: Rivers of Light Nighttime Experience, Pandora: The World of Avatar, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! (Disneyland), and Epcot International Festival of the Arts.
Additions to Disney Springs: The Edison, Paddlefish, Planet Hollywood Observatory, The Polite Pig, and Wine Bar George.
Annual Events: Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, Disney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend, Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival, Night of Joy, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, and Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend.
As you can see, there’s much to look forward to this year at the Walt Disney World Resort (and beyond)! With each new addition, the company shows their ability to honor tradition and facilitate innovation all the while trying to improve guests’ experiences. Use these opportunities to bond with your roommates, explore the various opportunities with the company or just enjoy some of the perks that come with your program! Check your Weekly Email and other Cast Member information sources for more details coming soon.
Coming soon to a Disney Park near you in 2017!
Another year, another impressive lineup of creative ventures! As Walt Disney said, “If you can dream it, you can do it.” And with a company built on the work of dreamers, it’s no wonder we continue to improve and grow every year! Here’s a look at what you can expect from the Walt Disney Company during your 2017 program:
For more Housing event photos, visit the Hub > Work tab > Disney Internships & Programs module > Events > Event Photos 2016. Steps for adding the module are on page 43 in your Program Guide.
July2016
Fall Diversity Event: Thanksgiving Dinner
Soccer Cup
Winter Formal: 45 Years of Magic!
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“What’s Up” Wednesday, 10 a.m.-
noon, Patterson Court Service Center
Disney Showcase Session: Disney Heritage, Florida Project Phase 1,
time TBD, Magic Kingdom Park
Jammin’ in the Jungle Welcome Event, 6-9 p.m., Chatham Square field Disney Showcase Session: Spotlight on Guest Relations, 2-4 p.m.,
Chatham Square classroom #4
Service Celebration, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.,
Chatham Square field
Blood Drive
4-9 p.m., Vista Way
Blood Drive
4-9 p.m., Patterson Court
“What’s Up” Wednesdays, 10 a.m. -
noon, Vista Way Service Center
“Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children” Movie Night, 2 p.m.,
The Commons clubroom
Resume Writing
2-4 p.m., Vista Way classroom #2
Winter Garden trip
10 a.m., Vista Way bus stop
Winter Garden trip
10 a.m., Vista Way bus stop
Asian Market trip
noon, Vista Way bus stop
Blood Drive
4-9 p.m., Chatham Square
Blood Drive
4-9 p.m., Vista Way
Disney Showcase Session: A Day in the Life of a Character Performer,
2-4 p.m., Chatham Square classroom #4
Blood Drive
11 a.m.-9 p.m., Chatham Square
Eye-Drive Experience trip
9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Vista Way pavilion
Resume Writing
1-3 p.m., Vista Way classroom #2
Blue Man Group trip
4 p.m., Vista Way pavilion
Buy in bulk to reduce pollution created from packing products!
Replace disposable products with reusable ones like utensils, razors, water bottles and shopping bags.
Allow your car to heat up for a few minutes before driving in cold weather.
Because, you know, it’s never hard work when you enjoy yourself.”
– John Hench Collaboration is being open
to each other’s ideas and benefiting from each other’s perspectives in an open way.”
- Alan Menken
Wear layers to accommodate for the difference of temperature indoors and outdoors.
Wear shoes or boots with good traction on the bottom to avoid slips.
Avoid going out into the cold with wet hair!
Happy New Year!
In 1978, Disney’s Main Street Electrical Parade appeared during the halftime show of the Orange Bowl football game in Miami, Florida.In 2008, Disney-MGM Studios was officially renamed Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Laughter is America’s most important export.”
- Walt Disney
Asian Market trip
10 a.m., Vista Way bus stop
“What’s Up” Wednesday, 10 a.m.-
noon, The Commons Service Center
“What’s Up” Wednesday, 10 a.m.-
noon, Chatham Square Service Center
Blood Drive
4-9 p.m., Patterson Court
2006 was the start of something new when “High School Musical” debuted and broke all
Disney Channel records. Mr. Disney believed everyone was still a child deep inside.”
- Annette Funicello
Wait until you have a full load of dirty clothes to do laundry.
Opt for stairs instead of elevators when it’s safe to do so.
In 1998, Guests were taken on a visual journey when Epcot debuted its nighttime show, IllumiNations:
Reflections of Earth!
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Jammin’ in the Jungle Welcome Event, 6-9 p.m., Chatham Square field
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Notes:
Tips for a safe program
We hope you have a wonderful time on your Disney Internship or Program
and would like to remind you of several safety tips that will make sure you
have a fun, safe time here in Florida.
• When walking between complexes or in the area make sure to take a
buddy with you. Try not to walk alone, especially at night.
• If you see something, say something. If anything appears
suspicious, let our security teams know.
• Use alcohol responsibly and remember
you are always representing Disney
while on a program.
• Pay attention when crossing streets and always use
the crosswalk. There is a lot of traffic in the Orlando
area, and with many tourists, those driving are
often lost, confused or not paying attention.
Stay alert!
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All events are subject to change. Please double check the time, date and location of an event in your Weekly Email or the DORMS event
calendar prior to attending. Additional opportunities, events and tours may be available via D-Learn on the Hub. Log on to the Hub to
learn more.
Safe-D tip
Disney fun facts
Environmentality
Cultural requirement
Disney Legend quotes
©Disney
Christina Laemers...Editor Brianna Berry...Editor Kristina Anderson ...Contributor Andy Crabtree...Layout & Design
SERVICE CENTERS Vista Way ...407.827.1225 Chatham Square ...407.938.6466 The Commons ...407.827.7737 Patterson Court...407.827.6670 Operated-Assisted Calls...407.560.2280 VW Learning Center ...407.827.1986 Education office...407.827.1244 INTEROFFICE ADDRESS
Communicator | Disney Housing Operations | The Commons, Ste. 813 wdw.housing.communications@disney.com
