Staff Spotlight: Disney College Program (Ellen at Hollywood Studios)

Did you know that in addition to being an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, Brentwood Travel has three staff members who have gone through the Disney College Program? Meaning, we have firsthand, in-depth knowledge of how Disney works from the inside. Between Ashley, Ellen and Libby, we have had insiders working at three of the four parks, plus Disney Springs, plus Disney's California Adventure!

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​Where did you work?
In the fall of 2013, I worked at The Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It was a building dedicated to hand drawn animation that used to be an actual working studio where classics like Lilo and Stitch, Mulan, and Brother Bear were created. 

Describe a typical day at work:
My main responsibilities were greeting and directing guests, assisting with the drawing class taught by real Disney artists, and performing in a show called Drawn to Animation. 

What “costume” did you wear?
Because my attraction was a celebration of hand drawn movies from the 1990’s and early 2000’s, I wore simple blue pants and a shirt with concept art of those iconic Disney characters.  Every day I had at least one enthusiastic Disney fan offering to pay me money if I could get them one of our shirts!
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Ellen W. - Third from the right

What was your favorite part about your job?
I had the great opportunity to perform on a Disney stage while talking to Mushu from Mulan, and it was more fun than I ever could have imagined.  It was amazing to combine my love of the stage with my love of Disney, and not very many people can say that they co-starred with an animated dragon!

Tell me one of your favorite memories from working there:
The wait for the drawing class experience could be as long as an hour and a half during peak times (Christmas, Thanksgiving, etc.) and on certain occasions I would have a very entertaining bunch to hang out with when I was in charge of the queue.  I have great memories of singing along with school groups and doing trivia with Disney fanatics to help pass the time. 

Recommend a favorite ride/experience at your park:
I make a point to ride the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at least one time every time I visit Hollywood Studios – it’s the fastest ride in all of Disney, and the theming is incredible. 

Recommend a favorite restaurant at/near your park:
For a touch of Hollywood glamour befitting the surroundings, be sure to eat at The Hollywood Brown Derby, a replica of the famous Brown Derby restaurant in California.  If you’re not looking for a full-service dining experience, their patio lounge is a great alternative and the tapas/drink offerings are delicious! 

Want to hear more stories from Ellen's time at Hollywood Studios? Email her or call (314) 439-5700 x 129