3 Inspiring Career Journeys: From the HBCU Yard to Walt Disney World Dreams
Sometimes it truly does all start with a dream – at least, that was the case for these three Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) alums.
Meet Tasia, Tyreah, and John-Wesley! Three magic makers who all started their Disney careers on the Disney College Program HBCU Cohort. They got their start working in various roles across Walt Disney World, gaining valuable experience and creating a network to help them succeed. Now, each individual works full time, growing their careers with The Walt Disney Company.
Starting the legacy!
John-Wesley
Virginia State University
Guest Experience Manager at Be Our Guest Restaurant, Magic Kingdom
Why did you decide to apply to the Disney College Program HBCU Cohort?
Hunger and knowledge! I really wanted to start my career on the right foot. My university department chair helped me apply, if it wasn’t for her, I probably would not be here. As she was a very big consultant and influence to encourage me to apply. And I ended up loving it! I loved the people, the morale, the interactions.
What was it like being a part of the first HBCU Cohort?
It was something I was not expecting! It was filled with a lot of resources, other HBCU alumni and students – it was a huge pool for building connections at Disney. To this day, I still keep in touch with people I met in my cohort!
How do you stay inspired every day at Disney?
Once I was able to get into my passion of food and beverage, I stuck with it. Being a recent college grad, I want to learn EVERYTHING. Every single detail, the different standards, every form of food and beverage! Because there are different types in this industry and Disney has all of them. So, Disney is great at building that foundational knowledge.
Community is key!
Tasia
Alabama A&M University
Disney Hospitality Leadership Program Intern with EPCOT Festival Merchandise
Can you share details about your Disney career journey and how you got to where you are today?
During our welcome week for the Disney College Program HBCU Cohort Powered by Disney on the Yard, we had the opportunity to attend an event at Coronado Springs. Afterwards, we had an amazing networking opportunity to meet many individuals who work for the company. While I did not know exactly what I wanted to do, I was introduced to the Disney Hospitality Leadership Program (DHLP) by someone I met at the event and I stayed connected throughout my program to share updates. When DHLP applications opened, I was guided by many Disney on the Yard mentors and landed my current role.
Are there any memories from your DCP you’d like to share?
YardFest 2023! It truly made me appreciate the love for the HBCU culture here at Disney. It was like a mini homecoming with all HBCU's at Disney!
Why is Disney’s commitment to HBCUs important to you?
Our HBCU culture is enriched with music, art and fashion. Growing up we had Disney Channel and loved watching it. Many like me dreamed of going to Disney! While some coming from HBCUs are first-generation college students and when that’s all you know, it is shocking and overwhelming at times. To see them embrace our HBCU culture with HBCU Week, Drum Major Mickey Mouse and so much more means a lot. When I see alums coming from HBCU’ working for Disney, it fuels me to know that I can be the VP of the park one day too if I aspire to be. The possibilities are endless and there is something for everyone!
HBCUs Repping at Disney!
Tyreah
Alabama A&M University
Disney Hospitality Leadership Program Guest Experience Manager at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
What inspired you to pursue a career with Disney?
My Disney career began with a classroom visit from Disney on the Yard and a fellow Alabama A&M University alum (AAMU) who participated in the Disney College Program. At the time, she was the Vice President of Merchandise at Epcot, and her story inspired me. She was a proud AAMU alum and grew up in an inner city, just like me. I decided to apply for the Disney College Program and was accepted. A few months later, I saw Disney promoting the HBCU Cohort—a first for the company. I immediately reached out to express my excitement.
How did your HBCU experience prepare you for your current role?
My time at Alabama A&M University prepared me in so many ways, especially when it comes to communication with all types of people and building a network. My HBCU encouraged my creativity, from fashion to thinking of innovative ways to improve business in fun and unique ways. Most importantly, my HBCU gave me the freedom to be myself, never conform to expectations, and always push myself to try something new.
How do you bring your HBCU culture into your role at Disney?
Each day, I bring my HBCU culture into my role, and I truly believe it helps foster a sense of community at my location. At HBCUs, we welcome everyone with open arms, and I want my cast to know they can always bring any concerns or issues to me. I also bring a sense of cultural pride, recognizing that we all carry a rich history and heritage. Together, we can learn from one another and grow stronger as a team.
Any advice for those wanting to start their career with Disney?
Don’t knock it until you try it! You never know what opportunities working at Disney can bring. Plus, it adds a major boost to your resume since Disney is a leader in both entertainment and hospitality. You’ll gain incredible experience that will stay with you!
Inspired by these stories? To apply to the Disney College Program HBCU Cohort Powered by Disney on the Yard, click here!
