Elly Cheatle, a senior music and English major from Elkhorn, Nebraska, is spending eight months in Orlando, Florida, as part of the Disney College Program. This competitive, paid internship allows college students and recent graduates to work at Disney parks and resorts, and for Cheatle, it's a dream come true. Her journey began with regular visits to Walt Disney World with her family since she was 2 years old, and a deep admiration for the Disney College Program cast members.
What makes this program particularly fascinating is the diverse range of experiences it offers. Cheatle works in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom, where she rotates among three iconic attractions: The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Walt Disney's Enchanted Tiki Room, and the Swiss Family Treehouse. This rotation provides her with a unique opportunity to develop expertise in different operating environments, from ensuring guest safety at The Magic Carpets of Aladdin to overseeing the Audio-Animatronics at Walt Disney's Enchanted Tiki Room.
In my opinion, the Disney College Program is a transformative experience that goes beyond a simple summer job. It's a chance to immerse oneself in one of the world's largest entertainment companies while honing leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. Cheatle's willingness to learn and adapt, especially in a safety-critical role, showcases her growth and the program's impact on her personal and professional development.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the program is the opportunity to meet people from around the world. Cheatle has formed close friendships with individuals from Mexico, Oregon, the United Kingdom, and beyond. Her interactions with guests from diverse cultures, languages, and life experiences have broadened her perspective and emphasized the impact a single person can have on others.
However, the program is not without its challenges. Cheatle, like many customer service workers, has learned to navigate difficult interactions and move forward after negative encounters. She has developed resilience and a positive mindset, allowing her to excel in a demanding work environment.
Cheatle's educational background in the Glenn Korff School of Music has been instrumental in her success. Her years of private lessons, ensemble rehearsals, and classroom discussions have instilled in her a willingness to embrace constructive criticism and learn from diverse backgrounds. This has proven invaluable during her training for safety-critical roles at Disney.
Looking ahead, Cheatle is considering various career paths within The Walt Disney Company. She envisions continuing her performance career with groups like the Voices of Liberty in EPCOT or on their cruise ships, or pursuing her publishing career in New York City with Disney Hyperion. The networking opportunities and connections she has made during the program will undoubtedly be advantageous for her future endeavors.
In conclusion, the Disney College Program is a life-changing experience that offers invaluable skills and connections. Cheatle's story highlights the program's ability to shape careers and provide a foundation for personal growth. For students considering this opportunity, I would encourage them to take a chance and embrace the adventure. It's a decision they won't regret, and the memories and lessons learned will stay with them for a lifetime.
