The Best Part

I am constantly asked: "what was your favorite part?" There is no way that I could answer that question in a normal conversation. 

The best part were the people that I not only became friends with, but completely fell in love with. As a strong believer in fate, I know that this world brought us together on purpose.  And when I say I fell in love I don't mean in a boyfriend girlfriend way. I mean that I found several individuals I want to spend the rest of my life with. I found people who know and understand every one of my quirks. I found people who forgave my worst flaws and helped me recognize my greatest strengths. People who would do anything to help me in a time of need. People who make me laugh and cry and and scream and dance. 

The best part is that even those I didn't have a chance to fall in love with brought joy and knowledge to my life. The people who I knew for 7 months but never saw outside of work. The people who made me a part of their vacations and family memories. The people who stopped to thank me or tell me that I'm doing a good job. The people who understood that Disney was my job, but making magic is my passion. The people that I only had the pleasure to know for a month but made a lasting impression on me.

The best part was my roommate, who always listened and never judged. Who told me the truth when I needed it. Who stood by me even when I felt I didn't deserve her.

The best part was the nights I spent in someone's livingroom playing card games and laughing. The nights I spent with a large group of the friendliest girls and guys I've ever met. The nights I spent with my very best friends. The nights when I didn't get home until 5 am and I still wasn't ready for them to end. The nights I spent hours in a restruant talking and talking about anything that came to mind.  The nights when it didn't matter what we did or where we went as long as we were together.

The best part was my long phone calls from home. The phone calls that brought me closer to my mom, even when she was states away. The phone calls that helped me to learn about myself and my family.  The phone calls with my best friend from home who I continue to love and feel as close to as the day I left.

The best part was the support I recieved from all over.  The friends and family members who read my posts and viewed my pictures. Those who showed me that I am incredibly loved, and lucky to have people who care about me.  Those who followed my journey.

The best part is that although I had heeps of support, I was finally independent. That I earned my own paycheck and paid my own bills.  That I made my owns decisions and took responsibility for my own mistakes. 

The best part is that I can keep writing for hours about everything I did, learned, witnessed, tasted, created, and felt but there will still be more favorites. That this post could be a novel if I only had the time.

The best part of my Disney College Program is that even the absolute worst moments came with magic and love.  

The best part of The Disney College program is that I am sitting in a coffee shop tearing up as I write this, and I can't ever finish this post.

The Final Days

My final weeks at Disney were challenging. I found myself working in a new location, under new management, and with new, harder challenges. Working at the Frozen Sing Along had its ups and downs. The first week was the worst. I found myself going home crying because I thought that I couldn't handle the negative guest interactions and high stress environment. But I adapted, I learned, and I grew a thicker skin. 

Somehow in a short period of time I became close with a few of my new coworkers. I enjoyed making magic and dancing at the frozen fireworks.  I turned negative situations into positive ones, and I found ways to have fun in this new work place: receiving four Fanatic Cards in the process. 

My last week was one of mixed feelings. It felt strange leaving from a place where some of my coworkers still didn't know my name. I was sad when my managers didn't recognize me in my normal clothes all while those I consider family still remain at Animal Kingdom. I was happy to be going home, to finally sleep in my own bed, to see my family and cuddle with my dog, to take a break from working! It also made me sad to be leaving some new coworkers that I would have been great friends with had I been given more time. 

I spent the entire last week with Erin and Jackie. We went to all of the parks and went to many attractions. The best part was going to Animal kingdom one last time. We said farewell to the best coordinators I could have asked for and watched Festival of the Lion King one last time from the VIP section. Timon sent us goodbye kisses and we left our home.

There were more tears when our Frozen coworkers started posting that they are thankfull for us! 

My last day in Orlando was extra special. Some of my friends decided to celebrate my birthday 3 months early. They made a card and had it signed by my favorite disney characters. They sent me an extra awesome picture with Mickey. 

Despite my telling them I'd pay for myself they bought me lunch, cookies, and a smoothie. My flight was delayed 3 hours but I wasn't upset - that meant spending 3 more hours with them. We met up with more friends at the Boba Tea place and talked, laughed, and relaxed. When it came time, we made our way to the airport. I must have hugged everyone at least 3 times. I didn't want to let go. But it was time to go home, so I took my bags and said "see ya real soon."  

At bag check the clerk gave me a $100 gift card to spend on my next flight - making it possible for me to go back and visit Orlando sometime in the near future! I immediately called my friends to tell then I'd be back.

I cried as I watched the plane take off. My 7 months of fun, learning, working, and loving has really come to an end. I ou hope to remember that it wasn't just a dream.  

The people I met on the Disney College Program are the most beautiful, caring, empathetic, intelligent, like minded, diverse people I could imagine meeting. Together we overcame long hours, tough days, and intense challenges. We celebrated wins and mourned losses.  Together we grew and at heart together we shall always be. I don't have one home anymore. My heart has pieces in Florida, Mexico, New Zealand, Australia, Spain, China, Indonesia, and many other places. 

Coming home is hard, but I couldn't be any more thankful. 

Magic Shines Through

The past week of my program has been tough, to say the least.  As many of you know, It's Tough to be a Bug is going down for refurbishment until August.  About 3 days ago I was given my training paper for Adventurers Outpost in Animal Kingdom.  Although this is not the most thrilling job, I was happy to be staying in Theater Ops with my friends.  Unfortunately, only 2 hours later I had a meeting with my manager who told me I would be deployed to Hollywood Studios instead.  I was upset to discover I now only had 2 more days working at my home, rather than a month.  My time with my bug family had been cut short and I was not happy at all.  I said many tough goodbyes to seasonal and part time cast who I will not be seeing in the parks at all.  Before I knew it I was giving my last spiels (which I rocked) and crying like a baby in the office.  I have become unimaginably close to the people that I work with and the place in which I work.  Today was my orientation at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

But it's not all bad.  Hollywood Studios happens to be my favorite park to visit as a guest.  I love it's themeing and many of it's attractions.  This park is home to my second favorite attraction: Hollywood Tower of Terror.  I will be working in the new Frozen Summer Fun event - at the sing along in the Premium theater, and at the parade and fireworks.  I enjoyed having orientation with all of my fellow bugs as we are taking over the studios.  On our tour around the park I experience the Great Movie Ride for the first time with some of my best friends! Even in an ugly costume I believe I will make some great memories in this new location.

This week came to a magical end just a couple of hours ago.  Most of the CPs and ICPs found their way to the Tree of Life just before park close.  Our managers provided us with Mickey Bars and we had a party in the office.  Once our last guest show was over, the most magical moment of my program occurred - we had a CP only show.  Lillian, one of my coordinators, started the show with a beautiful spiel thanking us for all that we've done and giving us our blessing.  As Flik appeared, all of us instantly began reciting his lines.  In fact, we said every line of the show in unison!  We cheered at the happy parts and screamed at the scary parts.  When Hopper was supposed to come out, I jumped out in front of the theater and played out his part from memory!! Not only is that something Ive always wanted to do, but it's something no one else will probably have the opportunity to do in the future.  As the show came to an end we gave Flik a standing ovation.  With tears in our eyes and grins our faces we said goodbye to our home of the past 5 months.  At this point picture time commenced and we eventually made our way out of the park.


I cannot express how entirely thankful I am for every single bug  Ive worked, played, and laughed with.  I now have an incredible family that extends beyond 8 countries and dozens of hearts.  And it's not over yet!! It's time to make some more magic in my final days at Walt Disney World.

My Weird Self

Disney has made me so much more confident in myself. I feel comfortable  approaching people and starting conversations and being my weird self. Speaking of weird, Gis and I got a stroller in Magic Kingdom last night. Also, a man told us his wide is a mean drunk. Then we saw a boy fall face down and his mom turned around to say "he dies all the time. We arent worried." We were then on the monorail with the sassiest family ever. We had a great time dancing, strolling, and interacting until park close.

I love this place.

Life as I make it

I absolutely love it here.  I never realize just how unhappy I was until I came to Orlando and saw what life could be. Every day I am given a reason to feel good about myself. I do my job well, make lifetime memories for people from all over the world, and most importantly - am undoubted myself. Working at Disney is great for a person like me because it is encouraged to dance and act and sing and have fun. The only dull moments are the ones that you don't make fun.  

My favorite part of my role is making magical memories for individual guests and families. I live seeing smiles on children's faces and even bigger smiles from their parents. It is amazing I know that these complete strangers will remember me and my attraction for years to come. Also, my picture has been added to quite a few albums!  

Sometimes something unexpected happens and the guests make my day magical! Yesterday a father with his family gave me Maris gras beads for no other reason than out of kindness. Another guest came up to tell me that I am "The S. H. I. T." Not to mention the guest who told me that I inspired her to apply for the program when she for home!  

My co cast members are great. They are kind and welcoming and inclusive. Most importantly, they don't judge anyone because of their age or how long they have been with the company. The tree is a family and I couldn't be happier anywhere else.

I love being able to live completely on my own. I have alway acted independent , but now I actually am. I am living off of my own paycheck, saving money for school, and making my own decisions. Of course, I still call my mom and Amanda all of the time for advice, to brag, and because I could never really be without them.

I have made friends from all over the world including New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and Spain. And yes, I've already started planning trips to those places!

I love Disney, the tree of Life, the people I have met, and my new life. 

With every new day I fall even more in love with my self.

More Adventures

Working Update

Working here the past few weeks has been amazing, stressful, fun, difficult, and enlightening. I am surprised by the amount of rude an disrespectful guests I have worked with. I have witnessed more meanness and ignorance than ever before. But, I have also seen many more kind hearted souls. I make priceless connections with guests and cast members alike every day that I am here. I am learning about other cultures such as those from New Zealand, Spain, Mexico, Australia, an other parts of America. I have learned a lot about myself: my strengths, leadership style, weaknesses, and characteristics. I am forming amazing friendships, experiencing new things, and falling in love with Orlando.  

The past few weeks

I haven't been able to post in a while because my life is just so hectic! I have been working over 40 hours a week at the tree of life. I love it here - awesome co workers and lots to do. It has been draining, though! The park has been very crowded with tourgroups full of hundreds of non English speaking 15yr olds. Every position I hectic for most of the day. However, the last few hours at night calm down a lot and have almost all CPs working. We full the time with dancing, singing, and laughter.

Pictures from my Adventures

My very first Dole Whip!  #BestEver

EPCAT on Everest!  Cheers to the random guy who joined us!



My first time riding Dinosaur - loads of fun!



There is my Tree!  I love working inside a tree everyday.

Working with Diversity

Working at a large park really tests your abilities, charector, and patience. Animal Kingdom draws in a very diverse group of people from different areas and cultures. I have already learned a lot about working through a language barrier as well as dealing with situations where I am uncomfortable. 

For example, I've noticed that some other cultures have a different idea of personal space than I do. I recently had a guest get uncomfortably close to me while asking questions. Rather than being outwardly offended, I nonchalantly took a step back and answered their question.

It is difficult to constantly be adapting to diverse individuals, but in the end I can walk out knowing that I helped make their days magical - no matter who they are.

Answers to Reader Questions

1. Are you sworn to secrecy on anything?

I have signed a confidentiality agreement on certain subjects - mostly just company information.  Also, I am not supposed to share anything that would "ruin the magic" for our guests.  It's mostly under my own discretion. 

2. Do they educate you on the underground workings of 

Disney?

Yes!  I have gone through the Utilidoors - the series of tunnels underneath Magic Kingdom for cast members and deliveries.  It is amazingly complicated down there!  I have also taken classes on Disney practices, processes, etc.  I will learn even more about this in my Exploring Marketing class and Organizational Leadership class.


3. Do you get a discount?

I get tons of discounts!  I have a "Maingate" that allows me to enter any of the parks whenever I would like! (Except for certain high-traffic days.)  I also received several guest passes for my family members.  I get discounts at the sit-down restaurants in the parks, on Disney merchandise, at Disney Resorts, and on guided tours.  I even get discounts at companies not affiliated with Disney such as local restaurants, hotels, entertainment, automotive, and much more!

Roomba!!

I have learned more than I thought possible in the past week.  Not to mention all of the connections Ive made and fun Ive had!

I am really happy with Disney's training program.  I was assigned a trainer to work with me throughout the week.  She taught me how to do everything and helped me when it was my turn to step up.  I learned how to do over 8 different jobs effectively.  I memorized multiple spiels and recited them for crowds of everywhere from 4 to 400 people.

I also completed readings and e-learning about safety, operations, OSHA, and other important areas.  (That was the boring part of the week...)  In practice I drew upon many lessons that I learned in my marketing program and from multiple clubs and organizations I was in.  It is interesting to see how skills Ive learned from theater, DECA, and even sailing (knot tying) come into play with my role.

While I have been working 9 hour days, leaving me exhausted every night, I am having so much fun!  I have made friends with my coworkers and had the opportunity to interact with multiple guests.  While I was working greeter earlier this week, a little girl was ecstatic to show me her stuffed animal - Marie the cat.  I loved being able to interact with her and help make her day magical.  

To end the work week, I went to a bar called Roomba with some coworkers and leaders last night.  One of the trainers is in a band and performs there often.  Some other cast members also play guitar and sing.  Although it took a while for me to choose the right outfit for this occasion, I am entirely glad I went.  I bonded with more of the cast members and enjoyed the music.  Everyone was extremely friendly and happy to be there.  I am curious to see where all of the photos taken end up!  Ending the night we took a group picture onstage and danced to the cha cha slide and cupids shuffle.

I now have the weekend off before my 6-hr assessment on Monday.  I plan on spending it relaxing and maybe heading over to one of the parks.  

If anyone has questions about the program, my experiences, or anything that pertains to this blog, please feel free to comment them here!  I'd be happy to answer them.

Viva Gaia!

The past two days I have worked 9 hour shifts!  I have a trainer who stays with me throughout the entire day, teaching me tasks and completing them with me.  Her name is Michelle and she is precious! She is extremely helpful and understanding, thorough, and interesting.  Two other girls are being trained along side me, but with another trainer - Nestor.  Nestor is a famous band member from the Philippines. Cool, huh?  I'll post all about Monday right now and come back to talk about today and probably tomorrow.  Enjoy!

Monday

Monday was my first day working on location.  I took the cast member bus at 7am with the other two girls.  We met our trainers at the Pride Rock, which is a cast member cafeteria and the cast services center.  From there we created accounts with The Hub - Disney's employee website, completed online training modules, and went took a break.

After our break, we all walked over to the Tree of Life.  The show that I work, It's Tough to be a Bug, is actually located inside the Tree of Life.  Behind the theater is a hallway with our very small office/break room, glasses room, and clock in station.  I learned how to prepare the 3-D glasses, or Bug Eyes, for cleaning and collect them from the bins.

I also learned how to be a greeter and took over the position for a short time.  The parade went by and King Louie took me by the hands to dance with him!  It's amazing that even as a cast member the park brings me into the magic.

After working greeter I was trained in stroller parking.  It was my role to park strollers for tons of guests in the post-parade rush.  I had to create extra space when we ran out.  This is my least favorite position.

From stroller parking I went inside to assist wheel chair guests into the theater.  After that I took my lunch and went to the training center to read about safety.  After almost falling asleep a few times and getting through the material I headed back to the tree to work on all of the above roles some more.

Overall I really enjoyed my hectic, overwhelming first day.  I am really using my experience that I gained through my marketing program and that feels great.  I will post about today at a later point, but right now I am falling asleep.

Viva Gaia everyone!
         

DAKlimation

 Today was my DAKlimation class, and also my first time working on location at Disney's Animal Kingdom.  This orientation was exciting, informative, and fun.

They first brought us into a conference room that smelled like a zoo.  Upon looking around, I realized a small dung pile in the center of every table.  I guess they really wanted us acclimated to all aspects of this park!!

While in the conference room we learned the basics of working at this Disney park, including a review of the 4 keys: Safety, Courtesy, Show, and Efficiency.  We heard a welcome message from the Vice-President of the park and learned about the conservation efforts of the Walt Disney Company.

From there we took a comprehensive tour of the park, both onstage and off stage.  We met some of the animals but most weren't out yet because of cold morning temperatures.  We learned the greetings of each section of the park and the various attractions throughout.  I even met someone working my role with the same hours as me!

After our tour we received our schedules and took a bus to costuming.  I am excited about my "Its a Bugs Life" costume!  The shirt in these pictures is big on me but it will make do!  (Plus I get a hat! #YES)  *These Pictures are missing my Super Sassy Safari Sash*


Tomorrow I have work (training) from noon till 8:30.

Dare to do what dreamers do

On Saturday I made my first tip to my work location, Disney's Animal Kingdom.  I went with Gisselle and Helen so we could ride Expedition Everest!  It was fantastic to see my home for the next 8 months and take guesses on which costume would be mine!  

We spent a small amount of time exploring the park, but couldnt wait any longer to ride the famous attraction!  Having no knowledge of the ride, I was in for some scary surprises! (No spoilers) ;)  

Having gotten there pretty late from taking the cast bus, we only had minimal time in the park.  Shortly after everest, and trying a chocolate covered frozen banana for the first time, we hopped back on the bus home.  

When we got back to The Commons we took naps and made food.  Only a couple of hours later all of the roommates were home and we left for Magic Kingdom!  This was a special moment because not only was it some of our first trips to the park, but it was the first park trip with everyone.  I was super excited to meet and talk to the boss (Mickey Mouse) as soon as I got in the park!  He said that he was hoping we would show up!  My boss is better than yours.

After meeting Mickey, we went on many rides that I have never experienced before and had a blast.  It was freezing out and I was wearing a skirt, but I was giddy with adrenaline from the coasters!  We all have bonded so much already that we were cracking up to inside jokes the entire time. 

Our main purpose for going to Magic Kingdom was to watch Wishes together.  This was a sentimental moment, considering it was a show about making wishes come true and all of ours just had!  We danced and sung along with tears in our eyes and smiles on our faces knowing that we are all where we belong.  I had a rush of emotions when a Lion King clip to the song Hakuna Matata played.  The following fireworks were brilliant and awe inspiring.

After watching Wishes Toni requested to meet Ariel, and we all wanted to.  So, we got in the very short line to see her!

She was beautiful and charming as anyone would expect of the wonderful mermaid!  

We also caught the parade on our way out of the park, where we started a "USA" chant as the Honor America float passed by.  (The male cheerleaders behind us joined in as well!)  

We left the park and caught a cast bus back to our car at the end of the night.  As soon as we got home (around 1:30) I passed out, knowing I had to wake up for work at 5:30am!

"We're all just children, reaching for our dreams. 

There shining high above us, and even though it seems, so far (so far). 

We put our faith and hope on a shooting star."

and my wish really did come true

Day 6 ~First Day Off~

Yesterday was my first entire day off.  After preparing food for later, doing some house work, and resting I headed to Epcot with my roommates Nora, Gisselle,  and Toni.  This was our first time using our Cast ID's to get in for free!  

The park was even more exciting knowing that we were there for free, and didn't have the stress of trying to fit everything into one day.  We were giddy and a bit ridiculous when we jumped around yelling about our discounts, but hey, two cast members cheered for us as well!  

We went on Test Drive, Spaceship Earth and Maelstorm.  We then sat down to eat at the UK Pavillion.  Eating there was amazing for a few reasons:  

     1. Boys with accents. 

     2. An amazing view of the fireworks 

     3. Being able to wait out the crowds leaving the park

After the show, we left the park and took the Cast Member buses back to our complex, where I almost immediately fell asleep.

Day 5 ~Traditions~

Before I get into today's news, I have to highlight last night. My roommates and I all stayed up until 4am pouring our hearts out to each other and bonding. It was amazing and welcoming and fantastic.

~~~~~~~~

Today was my first paid day at Walt Disney World. This was a training experience called Traditions. 

I wish I could share all of the details about Traditions but that is a secret ;)

This took place in a fantastic building called Disney University.

I met new friends and learned about working for the company.

And I cried tears of joy when I received my ears and name tag!

Day 4 ~At Ease~

Today was the first day I actually felt relaxed and at home.  Moving here on my own, figuring out transportation, and acclimating to a city has been more stressful than I care to admit.  (Still fun, though!)

I finally have all of my luggage moved in and a pillow on my bed.  I took a walk over to the outlets in the morning to get myself dress pants and then attended a housing meeting.  The meeting was longer than I expected but there was plenty of excitement.  I am so ready for the different housing events that are offered throughout the program!

After the meeting I went to Chic-fil-a and Walmart with Courtney, Gisselle, and Nora. (three of my roommates)  I was able to get everything I needed for my bedroom plus food for the week.

Annnndddd I am now out of money. :(

Tomorrow afternoon I have Traditions - a 4 hour orientation class for Walt Disney World.  I'm excited for my first paid Disney activity!

P.S. I'll post pictures of my beautiful apartment here later on.

Day 3

I am beyond exhausted right now so Ill just post some pictures and ramble later!

First attraction of my trip. But how did they make fake Captain Jack Sparrow so freakin hot?! 

Another new favorite - Haunted Mansion!

The beautiful Hollywood Studios

Finished the day with fireworks in Epcot!

I've arrived!

I just finished my second day in Florida. 

~Sunday~

My flight got to MCO around noon on Sunday, at which point I met up with my friend Daphne. Daphne and I spent the day swimming at a resort and exploring Downtown Disney. We made friends, got free stuff, and ate tons of food. Everything seemed like a dream. (cliche but true) We ended the day with the kids menus at IHOP.

~Monday~

I woke up at 5:30 this morning to get ready for my day. I met my fantastic roommates and went to Vista Way to begin the check on process. I spent the next six or seven hours in lines, talking to cast members, and filling out paperwork. One of my roommates, Gisselle, has the same schedule as me so we had plenty of bonding! And by bonding I mean fawning over British accents. 

I finally made it to my apartment at 2pm, and let me tell ya, its perfect! It is very close to the gate, clubhouse, mail kiosk, and bus stop. The rooms are spacious and we have a nice corner balcony. 

Ending the day, I couldn't be happier or more exhausted. Daphne and I are heading to Disney World tomorrow so its time I hit the hay! Night folks.

30,009 People Applied. 2,400 Received Internship Offers. 1 Proud Kat is heading to Disney Workd!

Only about 7% of applicants make it into the Disney College Program each semester.  I still have a difficult time believing that I was one of them!  THIS SUNDAY (that's right, in less than a week) I will be on my flight to Orlando, Florida.

I have taken so many wonderful opportunities in my life, each leading to the next.  I am so unbelievably honored that I get to take this next step into my future.

So what have I been doing in the past couple of weeks while all I can think about is Disney?

• Packing
• Night trip to NYC
• Spending time with Kagiso
• Packing
• Crunches
• Meeting up with High School friends
• Packing
• Worrying about every possible thing
• Still not done packing....

Just a few more days.