By Emma Herring
In winter 2021, I was attending college at UCO where we were still following all of the COVID safety precautions. I looked up one day and realized that this was not where I wanted to be, so when an ad for the Disney College Program popped up on my Instagram feed, I took a chance.
I received an email saying that they wanted me to complete a personality test. After the test came a background check, an online interview, and, finally, a phone call interview.
And then I waited.
It felt like ages just waiting for that email to come through saying if I was accepted or not.
Then one day in the middle of class, I got it; I had been accepted by the Disney College Program. I left the classroom and called my mom immediately.
Moving to Florida didn’t feel real. My whole family drove down with me and all my belongings.
The next day I moved into Flamingo Crossing West where I lived in Judy Hopp’s building.
Throughout the next week, I met my roommates, I attended traditions, I met Mickey Mouse, I learned the bus routes and I got ready for my first day on location.
I took bus route B to Hollywood Studios where I began specialized training.
My position was a Speciality Position so I had to have extra training in order to work there.
What was this special position you might ask? I worked at Galaxy’s Edge in merchandising. Everyday for eight months I got to sell light sabers, robes and build droids.
Part of my extra training was to learn all the lore for the planet Batuu as well as develop a backstory for myself.
After almost a month in training, I earned my ears and began working on planet Batuu everyday.
I got to meet so many different people, not only the people I got to work with, but also every traveler who came across my path. This taught me perspective and understanding.
I lived alone without a safety net for the first time, which taught me how to budget, grocery shop and time management.
I knew absolutely no one there, so I didn’t have the option to hide in the background or be shy. I learned how to speak up for myself and talk to everyone around me.
I worked at Disney World, and if nothing else, they are known for their customer service. I learned amazing customer service skills, how to deal with crowds and how to be calm even when the situation is anything but.
This program taught me a million things about myself and a million more life lessons I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
Bright Suns and Safe Travels!