USF students build career skills at the magical world of Disney

By Matthew Cimitile, University Communications and Marketing

A short drive from Tampa Bay, University of South Florida students are increasingly finding career training at the world's most visited resort.

Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando is a cultural icon, and for generations, the "most magical" place for family vacations. It also plays an increasing role in shaping tomorrow's workforce - helping prepare students for careers in hospitality, management and performance.

"Students tell me the skill development they receive is stellar and there are so many ancillary benefits from workshops on personal finances to meeting people from around the world to soaking up the positive culture of Disney, where emotional and mental health are equally emphasized," said Brooke Hansen, associate director of USF's Hospitality Management Program.

USF students have been involved in the Disney College Program for decades, but over the past several years, more students are taking advantage of an opportunity to live at Disney in Kissimmee and get on-site job training. Currently, 28 USF students from a variety of majors are enrolled.

Overall, the program attracts more than 10,000 college students from across the globe each year, managing retail, supporting attractions, engaging customers and designing costumes. Internships range from four months to a year and a starting pay of $19 per hour.

"The Disney College Program is so much more than an internship. This program allows participants to step outside of their comfort zone, gain real-world experience, build a professional network and create memories that last a lifetime," said Ashley Baldwin, a recruiter for the program. "The experience can help students make lifelong connections, discover new possibilities and leave with experiences that truly shape their future career."

Jamie Liepshutz completed a four-month internship at Disney last year. Born and raised in Orlando, Disney was part of her childhood in fundamental ways: both of her parents worked at the vacation resort.

"I have spent so many holidays, birthdays and even spring breaks there. It's fair to say it's been a big part of my life," said Liepshutz, a USF management major.

She interned at the Emporium in Magic Kingdom with a focus on retail and customer service. The position at the largest gift and souvenir shop at the park allowed her to earn critical work experience in a fast-paced environment, taking on a variety of duties while navigating guest interactions.

"It made me feel ready for the professional world," Liepshutz said. "I'm a very introverted person at heart, but being put in situations where I had to interact, had to network, had to carry on conversations with so many people really had an impact. I now feel far less nervous in such situations, and in a way, that has made me much more connected to students and faculty now that I'm back on campus."

In recent years, USF's Hospitality Management Program has strengthened its connection with Disney World through speakers, alumni sessions and more. Baldwin is the university's dedicated recruiter, who visits campus each semester to offer career topic presentations, host informational sessions and share personal stories from her own career. That is a big reason why hospitality students have a 100% placement rate for those seeking internships at Disney, Hansen said.

"Our program has tremendous alignment with the mission of Disney World," Hansen said. "And all hospitality majors must complete an internship requirement to graduate. This is a ready-made program for them that will accelerate their careers."

Beyond the educational and career benefits, both Hansen and Liepshutz mentioned elements of the experience that only Disney World could provide.

"My nights were spent walking by Cinderella's Castle at Magic Kingdom with few people around. It was special," Liepshutz said.

"Another perk, students get free entry to all the parks during their time in the program," Hansen said.

USF students can now apply to the Disney College Program for the spring semester.