A Magical Internship
Grace Maynard Prestonsburg, Ky.
By Kelly Rowe-jones
Two UPIKE Bears had the opportunity to experience the magic of Disney with a glimpse behind the scenes. Grace Maynard and Morgan Thompson said the Disney College Program was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that gave them unforgettable memories and invaluable career development. For Thompson, a nursing student from Pineville, Ky., the internship allowed her to expand her horizons before beginning her studies at UPIKE’s Elliott School of Nursing. “I didn’t have any more basic classes left to take before I got into nursing school,” said Thompson. “So, I applied online to the Disney College Program.” Thompson said the application process was like that of many other job opportunities. After the acceptance of an initial application, there is a web-based interview where applicants are given scenarios to talk through solutions and the final part of the process is a phone interview. 12
UPIKE MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2019
During her experience at Disney, Thompson said she learned many life skills to build upon her resume, but more importantly she was able to build upon her character. “I learned so much while being at Disney, but my number one lesson is that it’s always better to put others before ourselves,” said Thompson. “At Disney you do everything in your power to create magic and give it to those who deserve it.” Thompson was even able to inspire a future Disney College Program participant while on the job. After meeting a family from Kentucky in the park, Thompson learned that their daughter had just been accepted into the program. Thompson said the student was hesitant to go so far from home but with Thompson’s encouragement, she decided to accept the opportunity.
