5 Disney Interns Share Their Methods of Making Magic
In celebration of National Intern Day, we are highlighting five talented Disney interns from various corners of the company who strive to create happiness every day. These interns shared the most meaningful parts of their experiences so far and the best practices for finding success with Disney.
Anaiis - Park Operations & Sustainment Intern
For Anaiis, the best part of being a Disney intern is seeing the unique and unexpected ways she gets to make an impact, no matter how big or small. Each line of business may work separately — whether it’s developing a new Disney product, engineering a new ride or making sure everyone has a safe Disney experience — but shares the goal of creating happiness.
“Embrace the unique nature of working for a company known for its experiences and entertainment,” Anaiis said. “You might be coming in with an engineering, finance, or business background, but getting to experience the parks during your internship alongside our guests will give you a true perspective of how and who your work impacts.”
Anaiis also has experience working in attractions and guest relations and now sees the broader scope of how safety shapes every guest experience.
Lilan - Unscripted & Alternative Entertainment Intern
Lilan said one of the most rewarding parts of his Disney internship has been getting the opportunity to embrace challenges and stay curious. He added that Disney interns should come to work ready to learn every day.
“In addition to gaining hands-on experience from industry professionals, you also get the opportunity to foster community with individuals within your field and beyond,” Lilan said. “Building these relationships has been a priceless experience.”
Maya - Software Engineering Intern
Maya is a two-time Disney intern and said that as someone who grew up loving Disney Channel and family trips to Disneyland, supporting Disney Streaming fills her with joy because she knows how meaningful this entertainment is to people around the world.
It’s given her a clearer idea of what she wants to do after she graduates and get involved with work she loves.
“You will have opportunities to work on projects that matter, meet people that will support you during your internship and beyond, get access to fun perks like taking your best friends to the parks, and learn skills that will help you after your internship,” Maya said.
Maya said her internships with Disney have made her feel like a valued member of a family and given her a strong network of support.
Hayden - Walt Disney Imagineering Project Management Intern
As an intern with Walt Disney Imagineering, Hayden said he goes to work every day knowing his entire team is dedicated to making a positive difference for guests. Knowing that projects he works on will enhance guests’ potentially once-in-a-lifetime Disney experiences puts a smile on his face and makes every moment as an intern worth it.
He also enjoys learning from fellow project management team members, and said a Disney internship opportunity can forever change how a person sees the industry they work in.
“My favorite part about being a Disney intern is the sheer amount of knowledge and experience we have direct access to,” Hayden said. “We’re offered an amazing opportunity to work with the top of our fields and learn from professionals’ incredible insights.”
Trisha – Production Intern
Trisha has always loved sports, and applies her passion every day in her production internship with ESPN NEXT. She values the authentic storytelling and meaningful audience connection ESPN creates.
Trisha advises that Disney interns take on projects that challenge them and step out of their comfort zones during their experience.
“Approach every opportunity with a willingness to learn. You don’t have to know everything right away,” Trisha said. “Being open-minded, adaptable and excited to improve will take you much further than trying to have all the answers from the start.”
