A service dog can alert others to her seizures, retrieve a phone for help, retrieve medication, and lay beside her during a seizure to prevent injury. The dog can also help balance her during minor seizures and help her be more independent.
Friday, November 1, 2013
Please Donate!
It is very difficult to be far away from your family when something is wrong. I have never shared a lot of personal information on this blog. I have been told that others have found the info here helpful, and now I ask if you can please help me and my family.
A service dog can alert others to her seizures, retrieve a phone for help, retrieve medication, and lay beside her during a seizure to prevent injury. The dog can also help balance her during minor seizures and help her be more independent.
A service dog can alert others to her seizures, retrieve a phone for help, retrieve medication, and lay beside her during a seizure to prevent injury. The dog can also help balance her during minor seizures and help her be more independent.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Professional Internships Process: What does getting a drop down mean?
It's getting closer to the deadline for Professional Internships and a lot of people on the Facebook group are getting "drop downs" for specific roles on their Dashboard!
What is a drop down?
Well if you applied for internships with multiple roles, such as Alumni Only, they are all lumped together on the dashboard as something like "Professional Internships: Alumni Only"
As the process continues some people will get a new drop down for a specific role. Mine says "Guest Relations Internship" but of course other roles can pop up here based on what you applied for. You may even get more than one!
But What does it all mean?!
If you receive a drop down for a specific role it is a pretty good indicator that you are being seriously considered for that role. Likely it means that the department has already pulled your resume and a leader is looking at it right now!
Does this mean I will get an offer?
Perhaps. It is very unlikely you would get an offer without getting the drop down. (particularly if others have gotten one for that role) Remember that not all departments will use the Dashboard the same, so your role may not get drop downs. However some people will get a drop down but then will not receive an offer.
What if I didn't get one?
If you have seen others getting a drop down for a role you want, it may mean you haven't made it to the next round. There is a chance they could pull more resumes and you could recieve one, but remain realistic.
If you haven't seen anyone else getting a drop down for the role you want it could be that department does not use the Dashboard for this function, or the people who did get a drop down aren't on Facebook.
What happens next?
More waiting! But seriously, some departments will have second interviews at this stage. Others will only use your screening interview. Think of getting a drop down as passing onto the next level. You may get a background check email asking you to fill out the DWWS form, again that would indicate you are being seriously considered. Then finally (hopefully) an offer!
What is a drop down?
Well if you applied for internships with multiple roles, such as Alumni Only, they are all lumped together on the dashboard as something like "Professional Internships: Alumni Only"
As the process continues some people will get a new drop down for a specific role. Mine says "Guest Relations Internship" but of course other roles can pop up here based on what you applied for. You may even get more than one!
But What does it all mean?!
If you receive a drop down for a specific role it is a pretty good indicator that you are being seriously considered for that role. Likely it means that the department has already pulled your resume and a leader is looking at it right now!
Does this mean I will get an offer?
Perhaps. It is very unlikely you would get an offer without getting the drop down. (particularly if others have gotten one for that role) Remember that not all departments will use the Dashboard the same, so your role may not get drop downs. However some people will get a drop down but then will not receive an offer.
What if I didn't get one?
If you have seen others getting a drop down for a role you want, it may mean you haven't made it to the next round. There is a chance they could pull more resumes and you could recieve one, but remain realistic.
If you haven't seen anyone else getting a drop down for the role you want it could be that department does not use the Dashboard for this function, or the people who did get a drop down aren't on Facebook.
What happens next?
More waiting! But seriously, some departments will have second interviews at this stage. Others will only use your screening interview. Think of getting a drop down as passing onto the next level. You may get a background check email asking you to fill out the DWWS form, again that would indicate you are being seriously considered. Then finally (hopefully) an offer!
Monday, October 21, 2013
Future Plans
There is only 11 weeks remaining of my Professional Internship! I cannot believe the time has gone so fast. I have loved every minute of it so far. One thing that I really like is because Guest Relations is changing so much at this time, there is something new to learn everyday. I truly enjoy learning and this role has really challenged me to keep learning and asking questions each and every day!
I had applied for Management Internships in Theme Park Operations and Lodging. I had an initial interview but did not receive the second panel interview. Having seen the process unfold in previous cycles I knew this meant I was pretty much out of the running for an MI. I was sad, being in leadership at Disney is something I really want to achieve and I felt I would have been an excellent addition to the team. But there was no point in feeling sorry for myself. I have already had amazing opportunities that others have not, and there are still ways to achieve my goals. On a side note, several of my fellow interns did get that second interview!
After speaking with my leaders I had a lot to think about. If you are in a similar situation as me maybe my thought process can help you out as well. First you need to decide where your passion is. Do you love this company? Do you want to have a career with this company? Or would you be okay with working for another company? For me, Disney is where I want to be, and there aren't many opportunities for me if I return home.
Next you need to figure out what your passion is. I really wanted to get an MI in Lodging because I love working with guests at the resorts. Some feel that the parks is where all the "Magic" happens, but there is a different kind of magic that happens at the resorts! There are other ways to get into leadership at Disney, management internships is only one way.
I have decided it would probably be in my best interest to seek a full time position in Lodging after my internship ends. My leaders suggested this, explaining that although my Guest Relations experience is valuable, I would benefit from being closer to the operation, and having the support of lodging leaders when applying for the LCC (Leadership Casting Call).
Additionally, I should be able to remain in the "pool" for Guest Relations and be able to be pulled for TAs (Temporary Assignments) The benefit to having a full time role is that when your TA ends you have a "home" to go back to.
In order to apply for full time positions I need to visit Casting 6 weeks before my internship ends. But until then I am enjoying all the time I have left in GR.
I had applied for Management Internships in Theme Park Operations and Lodging. I had an initial interview but did not receive the second panel interview. Having seen the process unfold in previous cycles I knew this meant I was pretty much out of the running for an MI. I was sad, being in leadership at Disney is something I really want to achieve and I felt I would have been an excellent addition to the team. But there was no point in feeling sorry for myself. I have already had amazing opportunities that others have not, and there are still ways to achieve my goals. On a side note, several of my fellow interns did get that second interview!
After speaking with my leaders I had a lot to think about. If you are in a similar situation as me maybe my thought process can help you out as well. First you need to decide where your passion is. Do you love this company? Do you want to have a career with this company? Or would you be okay with working for another company? For me, Disney is where I want to be, and there aren't many opportunities for me if I return home.
Next you need to figure out what your passion is. I really wanted to get an MI in Lodging because I love working with guests at the resorts. Some feel that the parks is where all the "Magic" happens, but there is a different kind of magic that happens at the resorts! There are other ways to get into leadership at Disney, management internships is only one way.
I have decided it would probably be in my best interest to seek a full time position in Lodging after my internship ends. My leaders suggested this, explaining that although my Guest Relations experience is valuable, I would benefit from being closer to the operation, and having the support of lodging leaders when applying for the LCC (Leadership Casting Call).
Additionally, I should be able to remain in the "pool" for Guest Relations and be able to be pulled for TAs (Temporary Assignments) The benefit to having a full time role is that when your TA ends you have a "home" to go back to.
In order to apply for full time positions I need to visit Casting 6 weeks before my internship ends. But until then I am enjoying all the time I have left in GR.
Sunday, September 29, 2013
Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party!
One of the best things about being at Disney in the Fall (other than Food & Wine Festival, but more on that later) is Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party! The party is held on select nights throughout September and October. This is a special event that you need to purchase a ticket for and it is held at the Magic Kingdom.
If I could pick one word to describe this event is would be: AWESOME! I was lucky enough to receive a free ticket to this event as a Guest Relations Cast Member but there are also discounted tickets available to Cast Members for certain dates.
First thing to know is that almost everyone wears costumes! Even adults! In fact many families dress up in themes, I saw families where they were all characters from Alice in Wonderland, Wreck it Ralph, and the Wizard of Oz. It is really cool to walk around the Magic Kingdom and see everyone dressed up! Some people go all out for their costumes, and some look better than our characters look! I wanted to pick a Disney character but wanted one that I didn't think everyone would choose! You see a lot of princesses at this event! I chose to be Lilo from Lilo and Stitch.
Then there is a fantastic parade called Mickey's Boo to You Halloween Parade. This is the best Disney parade I have ever seen, and is regarded as one of the best parades on property. My friend in entertainment says the performers are the best of the best here at Disney and to be selected for this parade is a huge honor.
Next, special Hallowishes fireworks! Which like the parade can only be seen at the Halloween party! I wasn't as impressed with these fireworks as I was with the parade but they were still very good!
Many of the attractions were open but I didn't bother with that because there was so much else to do! There are many character meet and greets with characters that are not normally present in our parks. If you want a picture with the 7 Dwarfs this is your chance! The lines for rare characters can get very long so make sure you plan ahead! I didn't get to meet any characters but next time I will for sure!
Finally, the most important part: CANDY. There is trick or treating locations throughout the park where kids and adults can get candy. It is pretty good candy but they only give you a few pieces at a time, however as it gets later in the night they start becoming more generous.
If I could pick one word to describe this event is would be: AWESOME! I was lucky enough to receive a free ticket to this event as a Guest Relations Cast Member but there are also discounted tickets available to Cast Members for certain dates.
First thing to know is that almost everyone wears costumes! Even adults! In fact many families dress up in themes, I saw families where they were all characters from Alice in Wonderland, Wreck it Ralph, and the Wizard of Oz. It is really cool to walk around the Magic Kingdom and see everyone dressed up! Some people go all out for their costumes, and some look better than our characters look! I wanted to pick a Disney character but wanted one that I didn't think everyone would choose! You see a lot of princesses at this event! I chose to be Lilo from Lilo and Stitch.
Then there is a fantastic parade called Mickey's Boo to You Halloween Parade. This is the best Disney parade I have ever seen, and is regarded as one of the best parades on property. My friend in entertainment says the performers are the best of the best here at Disney and to be selected for this parade is a huge honor.
Next, special Hallowishes fireworks! Which like the parade can only be seen at the Halloween party! I wasn't as impressed with these fireworks as I was with the parade but they were still very good!
Many of the attractions were open but I didn't bother with that because there was so much else to do! There are many character meet and greets with characters that are not normally present in our parks. If you want a picture with the 7 Dwarfs this is your chance! The lines for rare characters can get very long so make sure you plan ahead! I didn't get to meet any characters but next time I will for sure!
Finally, the most important part: CANDY. There is trick or treating locations throughout the park where kids and adults can get candy. It is pretty good candy but they only give you a few pieces at a time, however as it gets later in the night they start becoming more generous.
Monday, September 16, 2013
Managment Internship Interview
Hello Everyone!
Yesterday I completed my interview for an MI! This round I have applied for Lodging and Theme Park Operations. And I am In Progress for both! I was invited to do the initial phone interview for Lodging but was told by the recruiter that it potentially could be used by Theme Park Ops as well.
I was pretty nervous to begin with but my phone was giving me a hard time! Because I am cheap I have put off buying a new iPhone even though I was elligible for an upgrade for the past 2 years. I sort of figured why pay money for something newer when what I have works just fine. Except now I'm at the point where it doesn't always work just fine! I have this problem while I'm talking that the mic stops working and the other person can't hear me! Not exactly ideal for the phone interview! I scoured around for friends who I could borrow their phone but after no luck I realized that I never had the problem when the phone was connected to the hands free calling in my car (since the mic being used was the one in car) So I decided to do my interview there! (Parked of course)
My interview was scheduled for 8pm but was a few minutes late, I've done enough phone interviews feel that this was actually a good sign and that my interviewer probably was very thorough. My interviewer was Nancy and she was fantastic! She kept right up with typing all the things I was saying, I even apologized for talking so much and she said not to worry that her fingers were nice and warmed up from previous interviews.
This interview was a little bit different then the Alumni Only interview I took last year. There were less questions but I felt the questions asked were more detailed ones.
I was asked:
What do you hope to gain from an MI?
What qualties do you think a leader has
Tell me about a difficult situation with a guest, co worker or manager
Tell me about a leadership position you have held
Tell me about skills you have learned from these position that will help you in this role
How do you manage interuptions to ensure everything gets done
Did I have more of an interest in Front Office or Housekeeping
If I had anything else to share
Disney look questions
The interview was 26 minutes long and I felt went pretty well, but you can never really tell. Only time will tell if I get a second interview!
Yesterday I completed my interview for an MI! This round I have applied for Lodging and Theme Park Operations. And I am In Progress for both! I was invited to do the initial phone interview for Lodging but was told by the recruiter that it potentially could be used by Theme Park Ops as well.
I was pretty nervous to begin with but my phone was giving me a hard time! Because I am cheap I have put off buying a new iPhone even though I was elligible for an upgrade for the past 2 years. I sort of figured why pay money for something newer when what I have works just fine. Except now I'm at the point where it doesn't always work just fine! I have this problem while I'm talking that the mic stops working and the other person can't hear me! Not exactly ideal for the phone interview! I scoured around for friends who I could borrow their phone but after no luck I realized that I never had the problem when the phone was connected to the hands free calling in my car (since the mic being used was the one in car) So I decided to do my interview there! (Parked of course)
My interview was scheduled for 8pm but was a few minutes late, I've done enough phone interviews feel that this was actually a good sign and that my interviewer probably was very thorough. My interviewer was Nancy and she was fantastic! She kept right up with typing all the things I was saying, I even apologized for talking so much and she said not to worry that her fingers were nice and warmed up from previous interviews.
This interview was a little bit different then the Alumni Only interview I took last year. There were less questions but I felt the questions asked were more detailed ones.
I was asked:
What do you hope to gain from an MI?
What qualties do you think a leader has
Tell me about a difficult situation with a guest, co worker or manager
Tell me about a leadership position you have held
Tell me about skills you have learned from these position that will help you in this role
How do you manage interuptions to ensure everything gets done
Did I have more of an interest in Front Office or Housekeeping
If I had anything else to share
Disney look questions
The interview was 26 minutes long and I felt went pretty well, but you can never really tell. Only time will tell if I get a second interview!
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Management Internships
This season I have decided to apply for Management Internships as my #1 goal. I have chosen to apply for Lodging and Theme Park Operations. There are several segments within each of these roles so I'll give you a little more detail.
Lodging consists of: Front Office (front desk, concierge, bell services), Housekeeping and Resort Custodial. My first choice here is Front Office, as my background is in front desk, as well as this role has a lot more guest interaction, something I am very used to from my previous roles. I am not discounting Housekeeping or Custodial however and feel that I could shine in those roles as well.
Theme Park Operations consists of Attractions, Transportation, Custodial, Main Entrance (Park greeters, parking, auto plaza, and sometimes Guest Relations). My only TPO experience is in Guest relations, however I think I could enjoy and excel at any of the positions if given the chance and would be a great opportunity to learn about a new line of business.
Of course the first step is applying and getting your resume through the scanner. I had multiple people look over my resume before I submitted my applications. So far I am "In Progress" for TPO and "In Submission" for Lodging.
Also today I got an email from a recruiter basically saying "based on your major here are some internships you might be interested in" They are all advertising related ones. I applied for most of them last round, not sure if I want to apply again this round or not. I also have the option to extend in GR but will need to apply again via the Alumni Only posting. I am not sure yet if I am going to apply to extend or not. Wish me luck!
Lodging consists of: Front Office (front desk, concierge, bell services), Housekeeping and Resort Custodial. My first choice here is Front Office, as my background is in front desk, as well as this role has a lot more guest interaction, something I am very used to from my previous roles. I am not discounting Housekeeping or Custodial however and feel that I could shine in those roles as well.
Theme Park Operations consists of Attractions, Transportation, Custodial, Main Entrance (Park greeters, parking, auto plaza, and sometimes Guest Relations). My only TPO experience is in Guest relations, however I think I could enjoy and excel at any of the positions if given the chance and would be a great opportunity to learn about a new line of business.
Of course the first step is applying and getting your resume through the scanner. I had multiple people look over my resume before I submitted my applications. So far I am "In Progress" for TPO and "In Submission" for Lodging.
Also today I got an email from a recruiter basically saying "based on your major here are some internships you might be interested in" They are all advertising related ones. I applied for most of them last round, not sure if I want to apply again this round or not. I also have the option to extend in GR but will need to apply again via the Alumni Only posting. I am not sure yet if I am going to apply to extend or not. Wish me luck!
Monday, September 2, 2013
How to keep calm when dealing with a difficult guest
Anyone who has worked in the service industry knows that sometimes customers can be difficult and at Disney it is no exception. One of the most important things to know is that when a guest is upset or yelling at you, it is not personal. The guest is frustrated at the situation, not particularly at you. Sometimes just letting the person vent is really all the guest really needs, other times you may need to provide some type of recovery for the guest.
Sometimes there are guests who just leave you feeling frazzled once they leave. Yesterday was really the first time for me that a guest left me feeling that way. To make a long story short, she confused me (and I think was a little confused herself) which led me to selling her the wrong ticket type. Then as I was feeling frazzled I made another mistake while trying to correct the initial error. In the end I was able to fix the error and the guest walked away satisfied. However I felt particularly hard on myself for making such a silly mistake in the first place.
It would have been really easy for me to blame the guest for me selling the wrong ticket type, or ignore the mistake I had made, but that is poor service. First regardless of fault, the guest had the wrong ticket and it needed to be fixed for them, end of story. Second ignoring the mistake actually cost the guest additional money they were owed, which would be unethical. And would have made the guest more upset when they discovered it later on.
What is nice is that there is almost nothing you can do that cannot be fixed. If you make a mistake and you are unsure of how to fix the situation reach out to other Cast Members or a Leader to assist you. Yesterday I had a really great fellow Cast Member who helped me through the situation and how to resolve the error I made.
So in summary if you have a difficult guest situation remember to keep calm, listen to what the guest is really upset about, and if you can't solve the problem yourself reach out to someone who can help you!
Sometimes there are guests who just leave you feeling frazzled once they leave. Yesterday was really the first time for me that a guest left me feeling that way. To make a long story short, she confused me (and I think was a little confused herself) which led me to selling her the wrong ticket type. Then as I was feeling frazzled I made another mistake while trying to correct the initial error. In the end I was able to fix the error and the guest walked away satisfied. However I felt particularly hard on myself for making such a silly mistake in the first place.
It would have been really easy for me to blame the guest for me selling the wrong ticket type, or ignore the mistake I had made, but that is poor service. First regardless of fault, the guest had the wrong ticket and it needed to be fixed for them, end of story. Second ignoring the mistake actually cost the guest additional money they were owed, which would be unethical. And would have made the guest more upset when they discovered it later on.
What is nice is that there is almost nothing you can do that cannot be fixed. If you make a mistake and you are unsure of how to fix the situation reach out to other Cast Members or a Leader to assist you. Yesterday I had a really great fellow Cast Member who helped me through the situation and how to resolve the error I made.
So in summary if you have a difficult guest situation remember to keep calm, listen to what the guest is really upset about, and if you can't solve the problem yourself reach out to someone who can help you!
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