Creating Magical Moments and Turning Passion into Professional Experience

For Paige Stickel, a junior double majoring in English and Organizational Communication, this semester’s classroom looks a little different. You’ll find her at Walt Disney World in Orlando, working as part of the Disney College Program, an experience that’s bringing her coursework to life in unexpected ways.

Stickel has always been drawn to the power of words. “I knew that I wanted to be an English major because of my passion for literature and the art of words,” she said. Through her studies, she’s developed strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, learning to analyze, adapt, and think creatively.

But it was discovering Organizational Communication that added a new dimension to her goals. “I didn’t even know it was an option,” she said. “I love the idea of being able to help a company run safely and smoothly and use my passion behind the scenes.”

That combination of creativity and strategy made the Disney College Program a natural fit.

“I wanted real-life experience in a fun way,” Stickel explained. “I also knew it would help me become more independent.”

After applying online and completing a phone interview, she received her acceptance just a few weeks later. Along the way, the Smith Career Center helped her refine her application materials and prepare for the interview process.

Stickel works in quick service at Disney’s Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts, where she serves guests and helps create the kind of memorable experiences Disney is known for. But the role goes far beyond food service.

“It’s about creating magical moments,” she said. “That means chatting with guests, making them laugh, and connecting with them—even in a short interaction. All the little moments matter.”

Those daily interactions directly connect to her studies. Her English background helps her communicate thoughtfully and adapt her tone to different guests, while her Organizational Communication coursework gives her insight into teamwork, operations, and how large organizations function behind the scenes.

“This experience has helped me become a more confident decision-maker,” Stickel said. “I’ve also learned how to step into leadership when I need to.”

Outside of work, she’s embracing everything Disney has to offer. On her days off, you’ll likely find her exploring the parks—especially her favorite, Magic Kingdom, where she loves riding the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.

Some of her most memorable moments, though, have come from the unexpected. “One of my first days, I was eating lunch and another cast member started singing to me—and I sang back,” she said. “And seeing Fantasmic for the first time was just magical.”

As she looks ahead to graduation, Stickel is considering two career paths: working in patient experience—helping improve systems and communication in healthcare—or continuing with Disney on the corporate side.

“This internship has given me one foot in the door with Disney and helped me see how I can apply what I’ve learned in so many different ways.”

Her advice to other students considering the program?

“Do it,” she said. “It’s such a unique experience. No matter what, you’ll learn something valuable.”

For Stickel, the Disney College Program isn’t just about working at the most magical place on Earth, it’s about discovering how her skills, passions, and future can come together in meaningful ways.

—Emily Potts