Yummy Jobs Case Study

Case Studies

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Laura Hannah

I've literally just returned from Disney's International College programme and participated in a programme that has most definitely changed my life. I worked as a character performer in various different locations and before I departed Scotland I had no idea what to expect. Through all of my questions and vital paperwork that had to be completed before a successful departure to Florida ,Yummy Jobs were there every step of the way, every question was answered and everything down to a 'how to' exactly fill out the paperwork was available to me. Throughout the programme I went through a series of changes. My first week of training was one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. All inhibitions left at the door please, you are now a Disney employee!! I remember laughing until I cried every single day. I was also ever so fortunate to have three of the best trainers Disney has - they set our group up for a very successful summer. On my first shift alone as a character performer the reality of what a spectacular opportunity I had been given actually hit me, I was getting paid to dress up, dance and make people happy. I was so full of enthusiasm and happiness and I just couldn't quite believe where I was and what I was doing. As the reality set in I began to get placed in certain locations and the people I worked with became my family, my 'DAK' family. There are also some memories that I will hold close to my heart. As a character I was always very lucky to get the opportunity to interact with guests and make their trip to Walt Disney World so special. I felt very honoured to be given a role with such responsibility and to be able to give my own input into creating the magic made it truly memorable and made me feel truly valued. On numerous occasions I met some of the children from the Make a Wish Foundation, a number of which are terminally ill and to make some of those children laugh and dance and forget everything just for a moment is a feeling i will never forget and something i will hold very close to my heart. One mother even said to me in tears " thank you so much, you have completely made our trip", I remember welling up inside and tears falling down my face, I was just lucky that no-one could see me. Working for Disney has also opened my eyes to children who have such bravery, courage and such a strong positive spirit which I will strive to keep within me for those who cant be with us today. If you get the opportunity the Give Kids The World village is always looking for 'voluntEARS' and i found the experience one which will stay in my memory forever.

The living experience is so culturally diverse and being placed with room-mates from all different backgrounds, cultures and life experiences made the programme as a whole a greater learning experience and also a unique opportunity to make friends with people from all over the world.

This summer I have learned how to walk stilts, how to animate, how to cook and clean, and I've been able to improve my Spanish.

In disney I was thrown into this bubble of possibility where the harder you work, the more achievable you goals become and the more recognition you get but the most important aspects of my experience that I will truly treasure is the unique friendships that I have made, the people I have met have made an incredible impact on my life and I am very blessed to know that I will be very good friends with these people for a very long time. I even have one of my very best friends that I met from the programme coming to live with me for a year! I want to thank Yummy Jobs and Disney for giving me a summer full of experiences that I will cherish for the rest of my life and for the opportunity to be surrounded by people who all share the same positive, happy outlook and sense of adventure. Like Jiminy Cricket says "Ya know, any wish is possible, all at takes is a little courage to set it free".