Jaenna Contestabile made the most of her opportunity to meet people from around the world, learn a strong work ethic, and earn college credit when she worked as a paid intern at Space Mountain in Walt Disney World, Florida.

Contestabile, a third semester student at Carroll, spent the fall term in the Disney College Program. “I had the chance to work, learn, and earn during a paid internship at the Magic Kingdom,” Contestabile said.

The Carroll education major was a ride greeter who handled customer relations and monitored the ride to make sure it worked properly. “I met people from many states and other countries, and even learned some conversational Portuguese and Spanish.”

Contestabile values the experience because it broadened her world outside of Carroll County. She lived in a dorm with roommates from around the country. One student was from Brazil.

In addition to working, Contestabile spent time going to a hospitality management class. This arrangement was made possible through a partnership between the Disney College Program and select universities. She earned three credits from partnering institution Central Michigan University, which offers credits for students’ practical work experience, training, and instruction at a recreation/tourism facility. Her experience at Walt Disney World counts for credit through the Central Michigan University Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Services Administration program. Contestabile plans to apply the credits towards the institution she plans to transfer to after finishing her studies at Carroll.

“My internship and class at Disney helped me to learn outside the classroom. I felt empowered because I was allowed to make informed decisions and use my judgment in my job. I also learned how to provide excellent customer service to keep our guests happy,” Contestabile said. The Disney College Program provided training in the four quality standards Disney strives to uphold: courtesy, safety, efficiency, and proper appearance and conduct. Skills, Contestabile said, she can take with her to any future workplace.

Contestabile is now a volunteer campus representative for the Disney College Program and is willing to speak with other interested students seeking information about it. She can be reached at 410-848-0446 or at sushifish00@hotmail.com.

Jenna Contestabile (front row right) with other Disney College Program interns.

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