Making the most of your Disney Internship: Mylé’s Story
At The Walt Disney Company, Disney Internships offer the chance to receive hands-on, real world work experience in a specific field of study. Interns enjoy exclusive perks all while building a network with people around the world. For one intern in particular, this experience was the beginning of a meaningful career at The Walt Disney Company.
Meet Mylé, a Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University (FAMU) alumna and Disney Vacation Club (DVC) associate at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. Mylé was inspired to pursue a career at Disney during FAMU’s 2021 Homecoming Week, where Disney on the Yard made an appearance introducing her to the company’s career possibilities for students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). Disney on the Yard is dedicated to building a community for HBCU alumni working across The Walt Disney Company and providing meaningful opportunities for students. In partnership with HBCUs around the country, Disney on the Yard has strengthened its commitment to the development of internships, mentorship programs and career growth opportunities for HBCU graduates and talent at all levels.
The company’s addition of ‘Inclusion’ as a fifth key gave her confirmation that this was the company where she belonged. She says, “I truly always wanted to work for a standout brand that aligns with my values!” Learning about the many FAMU alumni that work at Disney and hearing how much they love the company motivated her to research more about Disney’s internship opportunities. Encouraged by her experience during Homecoming Week, she applied to the Disney Signature Experiences Empowered Program. In preparation for her journey, Mylé relied heavily on the foundation she built while attending FAMU, “I was taught excellence, professionalism and character in the workplace for my transition into the corporate world,” she shares. Having those lessons helped her sharpen her skill sets and become confident when she arrived at Disney.
During her time with Disney as a Disney Vacation Club Sales and Operations Intern, Mylé used those 12 weeks to her advantage by taking initiative, making connections and bringing what she learned from FAMU to every experience. The Disney Signature Experiences Empowered Program provided her with opportunities to strengthen her leadership abilities as well as operational strategy. Through her ambition and driven spirit, Mylé earned a second internship the following year as a Disney Vacation Club Sales Operations Analyst.
Over 18 months, she rotated through different departments, gaining hands-on experience where she was tasked with inventory tracking, fulfillment and organizing pick up and exchanges for approximately 150 DVC cast members during her operations rotation. “One piece of advice I would give to HBCU students is to fine tune relationship building skills and to go the extra mile. Research and contact Disney cast members and reach out to them, there are so many HBCU alumni who can help you!” she shares. Along with gaining experience as an intern, there was also a chance for Mylé to create unforgettable moments of her own. One highlight included a backstage visit at Disney’s Animal Kingdom organized by the Vice President of Trip Operations at Adventures by Disney. Sharing magical moments with fellow interns allowed her to enjoy the experiences during her program.
When the opportunity to join Disney full-time came about, Mylé was ready to confidently step into her current role as a Disney Vacation Club associate at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. Now, she brings that same energy and excellence to her daily interactions with guests, “Day to day, you can find me at a Disney Vacation Club Discovery Desk and any of the four Walt Disney World parks connecting with guests and sharing with them how the Disney Vacation Club membership works.” she shares.
While Mylé creates magical moments for guests, she still has time to experience her own! “My favorite memory from my role so far was when I was invited to attend a Moonlight Magic event at EPCOT, where only DVC members and their guests have access to the park after hours,” she shares. However, it doesn’t end there, outside of work and going to the parks, Mylé volunteers her time with the many Business Employee Resource Groups that The Walt Disney Company has to offer. “I was able to share my experience as a Disney Intern Alumni and share the connections I have made with new and current Disney College Program participants,” she shares.
Taking what she learned from her internships, Mylé’s journey from intern to a full-time cast member reflects what can happen when preparation meets opportunity. “Many of the skills we learn are transferable. Do not hesitate when an opportunity comes to you; you are prepared!”
Want to learn more about Disney on the Yard's impact? Visit https://sites.disney.com/disneycareers/disney-on-the-yard/
