So it has been about a week since I updated you guys (holy crap this thing is making time go crazy fast) and I thought you'd be interested in some things I learned this week and a few of the things I did. I have been in class training all week in preparation for my on-the-job training that will start on Friday at Disney's Port Orleans Resort. I've been trying to absorb all kinds of information that has been thrown at me, ranging from all the awesome things the resorts offer to how to use a broom and dustpan (yes, I had an orientation class that covered how to use a broom).It hasn't all been work though! I was able to go to Magic Kingdom on Saturday night (we are crazy) with ALL of my roommates for the first time since becoming a cast member. It was absolutely magical. I cried during the Wishes fireworks show and made some wonderful memories with my roomies that I already am so close with. More on them later haha.
On Sunday, I had a class called "Welcome to Operations," which is a general class for all the lines of business. It covered the Four Keys (safety, courtesy, show, and efficiency) many, many times, especially the safe part. We learned why we are a part of this wonderful company and how we should stay "in character" whenever we are "on stage." The way Disney integrates "the show" into the training course is really helpful and effective. I'm so lucky to have been able to experience it.
Monday was a longer day. I had a orientation class called "Welcome to Lodging" (the area of business resort custodial is considered a part of) that spoke about the many resorts and how we should commit to having interactions with the guests instead of simply transactions. I am going to have so many opportunities to do this with my role and I can't wait to make some magical moments! The next class I had was called Custodial Core, and they taught us the basics of custodial, mostly common simple things, but also more serious things like blood borne pathogens and other potentially hazardous spills we may come in contact with. At the end of the day, I was able to meet up with my friends Casey and Scott Crevier for dinner. Casey did both the Disney College Program as well as the Disney Professional Internship, and has been a great resource and friend to have while I was preparing for my program. She just finished a couple weeks ago, and she and Scott were headed on a road trip back to Wisconsin this week. It is so lucky that we were able to have dinner and that I was able to meet Casey's friend Kim, who is also in the program. Such wonderful people!
Yesterday, Shirley, Jenny and I all had a day off, so we decided to spend the day at the parks together. I am so happy we did! We were on a mission to go on all the mountains Disney has to offer (Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, Expedition Everest, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad). We made it on THREE mountains, but were unable to go on Splash Mountain because unfortunately it is currently closed for refurbishments. I call that a successful day!! We went on Everest twice and a whole slew of other rides. We also had "Story Time with Bell" in the (semi-) New Fantasyland (magical and adorable!). Can I just take a second to say that my roommates are really making this program for me? These ladies are awesome and a half, and even though I have only known them for a short time, I can tell that we are going to continue to grow closer. There is not a time when the apartment isn't filled with laughter or positive energy. These girls will make my program. No doubt about it.
Today, I was finally able to train at the resort where I will be working. I had in-class training at Port Orleans Cast Services and I learned all about the New Orleans/Southern Comfort background, story and theme of the resort that I am expected to uphold as a part of my role. I am encouraged to use phrases like "Hey Ya'll!" and "Just over yonder" when interacting with guests. My orientation leaders were awesome and I really enjoyed the class. They then took us on a tour of the resort (which is gorgeous by the way) and showed us the beautiful rooms it has to offer. The "royal rooms" are princess themed with Tiana (The Princess and the Frog, from New Orleans) at the center of it all. They were of the highest luxury, and I felt privileged to be able to see it and hear about its secrets. I feel so blessed to be here and humbled to have such an underrated role.
I know this program will fly by, and that is exciting and terrifying. I wish I could stay at Disney World forever, but of course I'd want to bring the ones I'm missing terribly along. It is such a rush of emotions and magic, and I am going to make every second count.Thank you for listening! I love and miss you folks.
Until next time,
Sam
