Disney Traditions

Today was simply one of the most surreal days of my life.  I never imaged after my sophomore year of college I would be already be walking the paths of Magic Kingdom Park as a Disney Professional Intern.  It was a strange but yet unbelievable feeling.  The dream of working for Walt Disney had become a sharp reality.

 

This past Saturday we attended the “Disney Traditions” at Disney University.  Disney Traditions is a four hour class that all new employees of Walt Disney World must complete before starting their new role.  This employee orientation included a wide variety of Walt Disney Company information, procedures, and employee guidelines.  We were educated on the past, present (we as professional interns), and the future of the Walt Disney Company.  The class also took a short underground and above ground tour of the Magic Kingdom.  We also learned of the four keys of Walt Disney’s vision for a great Guest experience which are Safety, Courtesy, Show, and Efficiency.  The class was not only amazing, but also extremely inspirational when Walt Disney himself addressed new cast members through archived recorded videos.     

Pictured above from left to right:  Chris (Instructor), Aaron, Me, Jacob, Jesse (roommates and fellow Professional Interns), and Bryan (Instructor).

   

The most exciting portion of Disney Traditions happened when Mickey Mouse himself paid a surprise visit tour our classroom.  It’s not every day that when you are sitting at a desk and in walks Mickey Mouse!  Mickey arrived to class with our official Walt Disney World name tags in his hands.  It was pretty awesome to see your own name representing your university on a Walt Disney World name badge.  The reality had finally sunken in, it was time to work for Disney (and represent Ball State!).

We also received our company “Blue ID” which allows us to enjoy all the benefits of being a Disney employee, such as unlimited free admission to all Disney theme parks.  I’ve already put that to good use!!! It will be very nice to not only enjoy the attractions, but to also understand and identify key elements of detail and design through the large amount of time we have here over the summer.

Disney Traditions eventually wrapped up that afternoon and the very first item of business for me and my roommates was to visit Magic Kingdom Park.  It was a beautiful day and truly inspirational.  The Disney culture is simply amazing.