I know I promised to write earlier this week but I have barely been home. I think this is the first night I have actually been home for most of the night.
Saturday-So last Saturday was Traditions which was my first paid day of work. Traditions was a super early start which was rough. The morning started with a union presentation which was just awful. I didn't agree with the whole set up of it and how they presented it. Then we did the Working with Integrity E learning that I did last summer so that was super tough to stay awake during. Finally after that we got into learning about Disney and Walt. The best part of it was going to MK and being back in the parks. And of course receiving our nametags and Disney IDs. I was wondering how different the Traditions we had to do would be since it was like 8 1/2 hours but it was pretty much the same thing we did for the ICP except for the union presentation and having lunch at MK. Everything was just dragged out for a few extra hours. After that we went home, went to the outlets for dinner and headed back to MK. It felt so good to be back walking down Main Street again. We managed to get a few rides in which was good since the park was only open until 11. We did Pirates, Big Thunder Mountain, Haunted Mansion, Splash Mountain (first time on it since they added in the lapbars, super weird), and Mickey's Philharmagic. Then we decided to get a spot in front of the castle since Wishes would be starting soon. I was so excited to see Wishes. They got rid of it last summer during my ICP for the special fireworks they were running during Summer Nightastic. I liked those fireworks but nothing compares to Wishes. I was also excited to finally see the new show they are doing on the castle: The Magic, the Memories and You. It was so amazing, it's so incredible what they do with the castle. We decided to leave after Wishes since a few of us had another early morning.
Sunday: I had to be at Disney University for 8am for my Food and Beverage Core class. It was so boring and I was trying so hard not to fall asleep. I did end up getting my work shoes that day. Disney is doing something new and giving anyone who is working food and beverage and custodial free work shoes. They are super uncomfortable though which kind of sucks. Luckily I finished early since I had done most of my e learning during my first program. After a quick bus ride home, I changed and headed to Hollywood Studios with one of my friends for the last day of Star Wars Weekends. It was super weird being back in the Studios, it felt like I never left. The first ride we did was of course the new Star Tours, fast passes were all gone until 9pm so we waited in line for 90 minutes to ride it. I loved it, the 3D is so good and I like how each time it will be a different experience. After that we did Muppet Vision and then grabbed some lunch at Pizza Planet. We walked around a bit before heading on Tower of Terror. That is one of my favourite rides and we had such an awesome sequence. And we were in the first row too so awesome first ride of the program. Coaster's wait time was too long so we went to check out some of the Star Wars merchandise. It was so weird being back in the special event tent and seeing the new CPs doing my old job. I felt a bit homesick for last summer. I did run into some of my ex-co workers which was awesome. It was good to see some of my favourite people from last summer. After that we got some drinks and waited for Hyperspace Hoopla. Hoopla is the finale at the end of the day for Star Wars Weekends. It is such an awesome show and this year's show was just amazing. After that we headed back to housing and got to watch some of Illuminations from the bus stop.
Monday-I had my Discovery Day today so we walked around Epcot and learned about the history of the park. Then we met our coordinator of training and got shown around our area. After that we finally got our costumes. I have two costumes: one for the restaurant and one for the popcorn/beer cart. The restaurant costume is very simple, a long sleeved shirt and pants with an apron. For the cart I am dressed like a lumberjack. We also got the rest of our training schedule and I got my schedule until July 9th since that is how much training we have to have. After work we went to the pool for a bit, went to Walmart and then had our first family dinner while watching the hockey game.
Tuesday-In the morning we had E learning again but I only had a few to do so I just fooled around on the Hub and checked out any special discounts we had for the summer. After lunch we sat down with one of our managers and went over a bunch of stuff. After work I went home for a bit and then headed to Downtown Disney for dinner (finally got my Earl of Sandwich!) and went to watch Pirates.
Wednesday-I had my first day of on the job training as an AM seater
Thursday-I was off so I slept in until like 11:30 and went to Publix for some more groceries and to the pool. After the pool I went to dinner at Outback and shopped around the outlets for a bit. Made the mistake of going to Charlotte Russe and saw all the cute dresses on sale. This is going to be a real problem. I also saw they are opening an American Eagle in the outlets which is going to be tough for saving money. That night I made plans to go to Jellyrolls with one of the girls I worked with last summer. It was great to see her again and be back at Jellyrolls. I seriously love that place. Last summer one week I went like 3 times. We only stayed until one but I know we we will definitely be going back very soon.
Friday: I was off again so we went to Animal Kingdom for the day. We rode Everest, Dinosaur, did the Safari, watched Tough to be a Bug, and toured some of the exhibits and walking trails they have. It was way too hot today so we only stayed for a few hours. Luckily we made it home before this massive storm hit. After the storm died down, we had another family dinner at my place and just hung out. Tomorrow I get trained in greeter which should be fun. Hopefully it won't take a week to post again. A new arrival group arrives on Tuesday so I won't be the newbie for that much longer so that's exciting.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
So happy to be back
I am so happy to be back in Orlando, it feels like I never left. I will give you a quick recap of the past few days since I need to head to bed soon since I have to get up at 6 tomorrow for Traditions (first paid day of work yay!).
Tuesday: Left for the airport at 7am and there was no lines so I took a little extra time with my family. I was doing good and not crying until I saw my mom crying and then it started. I made it through customs in like 20 minutes and had no issues. The guy I had was so nice and we just chatted and joked around. Then I had like 90 minutes to wait until I could board which sucked. Finally we were allowed to board and I ended up with the whole row to myself, score! My luggage took a bit but then I ended up getting a shuttle within 15 minutes and was the first stop too. This never happens so I was really happy. I checked into housing and had the nicest girl check me in. She wanted a photo after of me and her which was interesting. After that Cathy drove me to the Commons and I moved into my apartment. I really lucked out and got a 2 bedroom that was going to be all new people so I had dibs on the bedroom I would choose. I picked the one with the biggest closet since I had brought way too many clothes (both suitcases were overweight but West Jet was super cool again and only charged me one overweight fee). Also another awesome thing is unless 2 of my roommates decide to go home, I will not have to move once during my program since we all have the same start and end dates. I don't know how I have so much luck when it comes to Disney housing but I love it! My roommates are awesome. I am living with a girl from Mexico, Botswana, and England. We are all food and beverage too which is awesome. After texting some people from my arrival group, we met up and did the Walmart trip. I had so much to buy since I had pretty much nothing but a few toiletries. After that was done we went to the outlets and had dinner at Subway and then we all went to unpack and set our apartments up. Also, my apartment is in an awesome location. I'm right by the pool, gym and bus stop. Like literally not even a 5 minute walk. And in my backyard is Mickey's Retreat. I really lucked out again.
Wednesday: We had to be at the Clubhouse for around 10 for some orientation sessions. Basically info about housing and some of the rules aka how not to get termed. Same stuff I heard before but luckily it went by pretty fast. After that we had a little break so we went to Subway again and then boarded a bus to Vista to filling out some forms. We then went to the pool for a bit and decided to check out Downtown Disney before going to the Vista Way pool party. I've never been to a housing event besides graduation so it was really cool to check out. Plus we got free food and got to meet Minnie and Goofy. I also ran into some friends from the ICP last summer which was awesome. We found out that afternoon we had our thrown in that night. I was a little bit nervous for it but it was so much fun. Any Canadians who are reading this who are coming down: you will love it! I can't say more than that but it's amazing. The Canadians are really nice and awesome. I was planning to go to bed after the throw in since I was exhausted but then I ended up staying out until like 5:30am. And I had to get up at 7:30am so Thursday was rough.
Thursday: We had immigration sessions and paperwork which was super boring. But they seemed to speed through it. Honestly they have cut down on the time of these sessions. Half of the paperwork they sent us to do before arriving. I'm glad they did that since those mornings are so boring. After that we had nothing to do until 4 when we had to collect our passports and paperwork from the office so we decided to go eat at Applebees. They opened up down the road from Little Lake Bryan which is awesome. I love this area since there are so many places you can walk and go get something to eat from. A few of us made plans to go see the Hangover 2 that evening which was super fun. I liked the first one better but it was a nice evening out since we aren't allowed in the parks until Traditions. They renovated the movie theatre at downtown Disney and it is super nice now. Really comfy chairs and there's even theatres where you can have a waiter bring you food!
Friday: I had today off and got to sleep in until 11:30 which felt amazing. My bed is super uncomfortable though. I wake up in pain every morning so I will be investing in one of those foam mattress things asap. Did some grocery shopping at Publix since I had no food, then we went to the pool for a bit and I am super burnt now. But at least I have started on my tan. After that we made plans to go to this italian restaurant. Tomorrow I have Traditions and it's 8 1/2 hours so it will be a long day. For my ICP, I only had like 4. Then I can finally go into the parks. I hate being in town and not being able to go. Also I get my work schedule tomorrow so I will know what is happening the next few days. Hopefully I will be able to post again on Monday or something. Tomorrow and Sunday will be busy days and I doubt I will be home much.
Tuesday: Left for the airport at 7am and there was no lines so I took a little extra time with my family. I was doing good and not crying until I saw my mom crying and then it started. I made it through customs in like 20 minutes and had no issues. The guy I had was so nice and we just chatted and joked around. Then I had like 90 minutes to wait until I could board which sucked. Finally we were allowed to board and I ended up with the whole row to myself, score! My luggage took a bit but then I ended up getting a shuttle within 15 minutes and was the first stop too. This never happens so I was really happy. I checked into housing and had the nicest girl check me in. She wanted a photo after of me and her which was interesting. After that Cathy drove me to the Commons and I moved into my apartment. I really lucked out and got a 2 bedroom that was going to be all new people so I had dibs on the bedroom I would choose. I picked the one with the biggest closet since I had brought way too many clothes (both suitcases were overweight but West Jet was super cool again and only charged me one overweight fee). Also another awesome thing is unless 2 of my roommates decide to go home, I will not have to move once during my program since we all have the same start and end dates. I don't know how I have so much luck when it comes to Disney housing but I love it! My roommates are awesome. I am living with a girl from Mexico, Botswana, and England. We are all food and beverage too which is awesome. After texting some people from my arrival group, we met up and did the Walmart trip. I had so much to buy since I had pretty much nothing but a few toiletries. After that was done we went to the outlets and had dinner at Subway and then we all went to unpack and set our apartments up. Also, my apartment is in an awesome location. I'm right by the pool, gym and bus stop. Like literally not even a 5 minute walk. And in my backyard is Mickey's Retreat. I really lucked out again.
Wednesday: We had to be at the Clubhouse for around 10 for some orientation sessions. Basically info about housing and some of the rules aka how not to get termed. Same stuff I heard before but luckily it went by pretty fast. After that we had a little break so we went to Subway again and then boarded a bus to Vista to filling out some forms. We then went to the pool for a bit and decided to check out Downtown Disney before going to the Vista Way pool party. I've never been to a housing event besides graduation so it was really cool to check out. Plus we got free food and got to meet Minnie and Goofy. I also ran into some friends from the ICP last summer which was awesome. We found out that afternoon we had our thrown in that night. I was a little bit nervous for it but it was so much fun. Any Canadians who are reading this who are coming down: you will love it! I can't say more than that but it's amazing. The Canadians are really nice and awesome. I was planning to go to bed after the throw in since I was exhausted but then I ended up staying out until like 5:30am. And I had to get up at 7:30am so Thursday was rough.
Thursday: We had immigration sessions and paperwork which was super boring. But they seemed to speed through it. Honestly they have cut down on the time of these sessions. Half of the paperwork they sent us to do before arriving. I'm glad they did that since those mornings are so boring. After that we had nothing to do until 4 when we had to collect our passports and paperwork from the office so we decided to go eat at Applebees. They opened up down the road from Little Lake Bryan which is awesome. I love this area since there are so many places you can walk and go get something to eat from. A few of us made plans to go see the Hangover 2 that evening which was super fun. I liked the first one better but it was a nice evening out since we aren't allowed in the parks until Traditions. They renovated the movie theatre at downtown Disney and it is super nice now. Really comfy chairs and there's even theatres where you can have a waiter bring you food!
Friday: I had today off and got to sleep in until 11:30 which felt amazing. My bed is super uncomfortable though. I wake up in pain every morning so I will be investing in one of those foam mattress things asap. Did some grocery shopping at Publix since I had no food, then we went to the pool for a bit and I am super burnt now. But at least I have started on my tan. After that we made plans to go to this italian restaurant. Tomorrow I have Traditions and it's 8 1/2 hours so it will be a long day. For my ICP, I only had like 4. Then I can finally go into the parks. I hate being in town and not being able to go. Also I get my work schedule tomorrow so I will know what is happening the next few days. Hopefully I will be able to post again on Monday or something. Tomorrow and Sunday will be busy days and I doubt I will be home much.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Orlando Tomorrow!!!
In Toronto at the airport hotel, only a little over 12 hours before I head to the airport. Left my house around 10 this morning and stopped at the Georgian Mall in Barrie where I found another skirt for the days we need professional outfits. Also, got a new wallet since mine feels like it's going to break soon with everything I have crammed in it right now. After a lunch break at Moxie's it was back on the road until we arrived at the hotel around 4. Seeing all the planes going by is definitely making this feel more real. However, I know it won't feel completely real until I see my first palm tree. And go on the mini monorail at the airport.
Not looking forward to saying good-bye to my family tomorrow morning. I did pretty good saying good-bye to my dog this morning. Really thought I was going to start bawling, especially when she tried to leave the kennel, but I did okay. I probably won't get a chance to blog tomorrow since the first day there is pretty nuts but I will definitely try to write a quick post on Wednesday to let you all know where I'm living and who my roommates are. Can't believe my start date is finally here :).
Not looking forward to saying good-bye to my family tomorrow morning. I did pretty good saying good-bye to my dog this morning. Really thought I was going to start bawling, especially when she tried to leave the kennel, but I did okay. I probably won't get a chance to blog tomorrow since the first day there is pretty nuts but I will definitely try to write a quick post on Wednesday to let you all know where I'm living and who my roommates are. Can't believe my start date is finally here :).
Sunday, June 5, 2011
2 More Days!
Today is my last day at home since I'm heading to Toronto tomorrow before flying out Tuesday morning. I can't believe my start date is nearly here. I am officially done packing except for my carry on which I'm doing later tonight. My one suitcase is ten pounds overweight which sucks but hopefully tomorrow once I pack my make-up kit and hairdryer, there will be ten pounds of extra weight in my second suitcase. I definitely don't want to pay an overweight fee and extra luggage fee.
Got my hair dyed and cut yesterday so hopefully I meet the Disney Look. I tried to find another skirt to wear during the days we have to be dressed up but I couldn't find one. Tomorrow we are stopping for a bit to do some shopping before going to the hotel so hopefully I can find a skirt or pair of pants.
I'm so excited to be back in Florida and to meet everyone in my arrival group. I still find it hard to believe in less than 48 hours I will be back in Orlando. It feels like ten years since I've been back but I know a few days in, it will feel like it's only been a few days since I've left. Well I should get back to getting my carry on organized, I'm so paranoid I'm going to forget something important like my passport or social security card. I feel so much more disorganized this time around for some reason.
Got my hair dyed and cut yesterday so hopefully I meet the Disney Look. I tried to find another skirt to wear during the days we have to be dressed up but I couldn't find one. Tomorrow we are stopping for a bit to do some shopping before going to the hotel so hopefully I can find a skirt or pair of pants.
I'm so excited to be back in Florida and to meet everyone in my arrival group. I still find it hard to believe in less than 48 hours I will be back in Orlando. It feels like ten years since I've been back but I know a few days in, it will feel like it's only been a few days since I've left. Well I should get back to getting my carry on organized, I'm so paranoid I'm going to forget something important like my passport or social security card. I feel so much more disorganized this time around for some reason.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
One More Week!!!
I can't believe I only have one week left in Canada, that is so crazy. It's so hard to believe at this time in a week, I will be all moved in. I really need to do more packing but I've just been feeling so unmotivated to do it. I was determined to be done packing by June 1st but that is definitely not happening now.
I paid my program fee so now everything is paid for which is awesome. Tomorrow I'm going to get my traveler's checks and take care of my health card. Sunday night I had a going away dinner with my family. We are really close and I see my aunts and cousins a lot so it will be rough not seeing them for a year. It is still up in the air whether or not some of them will come visit but I really hope they do.
I'm so excited to see where I will be living and who my roommates will be. I really lucked out on both my ICPs and had amazing roommates so hopefully it's the same this time around. I would really love to be in a 2 bedroom again, that was the perfect living situation. I've definitely got my fingers crossed for that!
I paid my program fee so now everything is paid for which is awesome. Tomorrow I'm going to get my traveler's checks and take care of my health card. Sunday night I had a going away dinner with my family. We are really close and I see my aunts and cousins a lot so it will be rough not seeing them for a year. It is still up in the air whether or not some of them will come visit but I really hope they do.
I'm so excited to see where I will be living and who my roommates will be. I really lucked out on both my ICPs and had amazing roommates so hopefully it's the same this time around. I would really love to be in a 2 bedroom again, that was the perfect living situation. I've definitely got my fingers crossed for that!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Two More Weeks!
Only two weeks to go until I'm back in the sunshine state. I have finally started packing and got quite a bit done already. My mom bought me a Canadian flag for my apartment so now I have something Canadian to bring down with me.
E-mailed my insurance information to my recruiter and next I need to pay the program fee. Apparently we can pay it when we arrive at the welcome centre but I would rather take care of it before I leave. I took care of my cell phone and am putting it on hold again like I did last summer. I was originally going to unlock it and bring it with me but decided to go with Boost Mobile and they don't deal with unlocked phones. They are no contract and I can get a blackberry so it's all good. I'm so excited to have a 407 number again.
I decided I want to find another professional outfit for the classes and training I need to do at Disney University. I'm bringing down the two outfits I used last summer but I figured another one might be a good idea since I don't know how many days I need to have professional clothing for. I know for sure I need them for Traditions and my Discovery day but I just want to be prepared in case there are more. I also need to dye my hair and make sure it fits the Disney Look.
Other than that Sunday I start saying my good-byes to people which I am not looking forward to. Still can't believe in two weeks today I will be back in Disney housing getting ready to start another crazy, magical journey. I've definitely been listening to a lot of Disney park music to get in the mood. A girl I did the ICP with last summer found this website with music from the parks and they had Block Party Bash and Move it Shake it Celebrate It which are my two favourite parades so of course I had to download them. The person who runs the website has this really awesome tumblr about the amazing simple things at Disney that I can't stop reading. I definitely recommend checking it out:
http://simpledisneythings.tumblr.com/
E-mailed my insurance information to my recruiter and next I need to pay the program fee. Apparently we can pay it when we arrive at the welcome centre but I would rather take care of it before I leave. I took care of my cell phone and am putting it on hold again like I did last summer. I was originally going to unlock it and bring it with me but decided to go with Boost Mobile and they don't deal with unlocked phones. They are no contract and I can get a blackberry so it's all good. I'm so excited to have a 407 number again.
I decided I want to find another professional outfit for the classes and training I need to do at Disney University. I'm bringing down the two outfits I used last summer but I figured another one might be a good idea since I don't know how many days I need to have professional clothing for. I know for sure I need them for Traditions and my Discovery day but I just want to be prepared in case there are more. I also need to dye my hair and make sure it fits the Disney Look.
Other than that Sunday I start saying my good-byes to people which I am not looking forward to. Still can't believe in two weeks today I will be back in Disney housing getting ready to start another crazy, magical journey. I've definitely been listening to a lot of Disney park music to get in the mood. A girl I did the ICP with last summer found this website with music from the parks and they had Block Party Bash and Move it Shake it Celebrate It which are my two favourite parades so of course I had to download them. The person who runs the website has this really awesome tumblr about the amazing simple things at Disney that I can't stop reading. I definitely recommend checking it out:
http://simpledisneythings.tumblr.com/
Sunday, May 8, 2011
ONE MORE MONTH!!!
I can't believe in one month I will be back in Orlando. I still can't believe I am spending a year in Florida. It still feels like I will only be down there for a few months.
I finally bought my health insurance. I went with the same company I did last summer since they meet all the requirements needed by Disney. I only need to get insurance until October 1st because after that I qualify for Disney's health insurance so that's good.
I went and did some more clothes shopping today and got some tank tops and a new pair of shorts. The only other things I want to pick up before leaving now is a new purse, sunglasses, and some nice flats and sandals. I also want to try and find something "Canadian" to bring down with me. I didn't really care about decorating my bedroom on the ICP since it was such a short time but I definitely want to get a Canadian flag or something this time. I also might need to bring some Ketchup Chips with me since those don't exist in the States.
The only things left to do on my to do list is to pay my program fee and pack. Packing is seriously stressing me out since I'm so afraid I'm going to forget something important.
I finally bought my health insurance. I went with the same company I did last summer since they meet all the requirements needed by Disney. I only need to get insurance until October 1st because after that I qualify for Disney's health insurance so that's good.
I went and did some more clothes shopping today and got some tank tops and a new pair of shorts. The only other things I want to pick up before leaving now is a new purse, sunglasses, and some nice flats and sandals. I also want to try and find something "Canadian" to bring down with me. I didn't really care about decorating my bedroom on the ICP since it was such a short time but I definitely want to get a Canadian flag or something this time. I also might need to bring some Ketchup Chips with me since those don't exist in the States.
The only things left to do on my to do list is to pay my program fee and pack. Packing is seriously stressing me out since I'm so afraid I'm going to forget something important.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Two Years Ago...
I started the most magical adventure of my life when I began my first International College Program. I can't believe it's already been two years since I moved into Vista Way and met some of the most amazing people in the world. I feel so lucky to be going back for a third program since I know this is supposed to be a once in a lifetime opportunity.
The May 3rd arrival group arrived today which means my arrival group is next. It hit me today that I'm the next one to arrive which is a little scary since I still haven't started packing! I got an e-mail from Yummy Jobs saying that we can now pay our program fee which is exciting. That and buying health insurance is pretty much it for payments I need to make for this program.
I started looking at the Walmart website for bedding and other odds and ends I want to pick up for my apartment. Some things I don't know yet if I will need to buy (like toaster, coffee maker) since I have no idea if I am moving into an apartment full of arrivals or people who have been there for a few months. I did find the bedding I want so that's good. I'm going to do the site to store ordering thing this time around. I know a few of the ICPs did it last summer so I thought I would try it this time.
I can't wait to walk down Main Street again and watch Wishes. YouTube videos just don't cut it.
The May 3rd arrival group arrived today which means my arrival group is next. It hit me today that I'm the next one to arrive which is a little scary since I still haven't started packing! I got an e-mail from Yummy Jobs saying that we can now pay our program fee which is exciting. That and buying health insurance is pretty much it for payments I need to make for this program.
I started looking at the Walmart website for bedding and other odds and ends I want to pick up for my apartment. Some things I don't know yet if I will need to buy (like toaster, coffee maker) since I have no idea if I am moving into an apartment full of arrivals or people who have been there for a few months. I did find the bedding I want so that's good. I'm going to do the site to store ordering thing this time around. I know a few of the ICPs did it last summer so I thought I would try it this time.
I can't wait to walk down Main Street again and watch Wishes. YouTube videos just don't cut it.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Six More Weeks!!!
Time is flying by so fast, I'm so worried I won't get everything done before I leave. I am definitely starting to feel really emotional about leaving. I am really excited to leave but I will miss my friends and family so much, especially my dog. I am definitely trying to make the most of what little time I have left at home.
Haven't done much on my to-do list lately. I started to go through some of my clothes. I'm finding it really hard deciding what to bring and what to leave behind. Other than that I've been making my list of things I need to take care of before I leave like cancelling my gym membership and unlocking my phone. I think I finally figured out what to do with my Blackberry. I can't live without it and don't want to buy one of those cheap pay as you go phones this time around. I'm going to buy my health insurance next week so then all I have to worry about is paying my program fee.
I do feel like I should be leaving for Disney next week when the ICPs leave, it feels weird not heading to Florida in May since I have the past two years. It will be nice to be home for Mother's Day this year though. I will leave you with this really cute video I found, it's called a Model Day at Epcot and shows quite a bit of the theme park I will be calling home for a year. At the end it shows the World Showcase costumes, including the Canadian one just to give you an idea of what I will be wearing until I start working in the restaurant :).
Model Day at Epcot
Haven't done much on my to-do list lately. I started to go through some of my clothes. I'm finding it really hard deciding what to bring and what to leave behind. Other than that I've been making my list of things I need to take care of before I leave like cancelling my gym membership and unlocking my phone. I think I finally figured out what to do with my Blackberry. I can't live without it and don't want to buy one of those cheap pay as you go phones this time around. I'm going to buy my health insurance next week so then all I have to worry about is paying my program fee.
I do feel like I should be leaving for Disney next week when the ICPs leave, it feels weird not heading to Florida in May since I have the past two years. It will be nice to be home for Mother's Day this year though. I will leave you with this really cute video I found, it's called a Model Day at Epcot and shows quite a bit of the theme park I will be calling home for a year. At the end it shows the World Showcase costumes, including the Canadian one just to give you an idea of what I will be wearing until I start working in the restaurant :).
Model Day at Epcot
Monday, April 18, 2011
50 Days
Only 50 days to go until I'm back in the sunshine state! I got my visa petition and I94 card last week which is super exciting. This visa looks so different from the one I've used to work at Disney before. Luckily I don't have to make an appointment with the embassy or anything like that. I just give the petition and my I94 to customs and they deal with it all. Going to put that, my social security card, and passport in a safe place until it's time to leave. I am so happy I already have my social security card, no getting up at 5am for that appointment yay!
I e-mailed Yummy Jobs and Disney my flight info so they know what time to expect me at the welcome centre (and hopefully this time I arrive 1-2 hours after my flight unlike last year where I swear I spent like 4 hours at the airport waiting for the shuttle). I still haven't bought my health insurance. I ended up using my March Break pay check to buy my camera and other stuff so I will buy it next pay day.
Ended up finding this amazing deal on luggage one day and got my carry on and second piece of checked luggage for $100. So happy with that deal! Now I've got three very bright colourful pieces of luggage. Definitely won't have trouble finding my luggage this time around! Now all I need to do is start packing :).
I e-mailed Yummy Jobs and Disney my flight info so they know what time to expect me at the welcome centre (and hopefully this time I arrive 1-2 hours after my flight unlike last year where I swear I spent like 4 hours at the airport waiting for the shuttle). I still haven't bought my health insurance. I ended up using my March Break pay check to buy my camera and other stuff so I will buy it next pay day.
Ended up finding this amazing deal on luggage one day and got my carry on and second piece of checked luggage for $100. So happy with that deal! Now I've got three very bright colourful pieces of luggage. Definitely won't have trouble finding my luggage this time around! Now all I need to do is start packing :).
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Two Months To Go
Only two more months to go! I got an e-mail from Yummy Jobs saying that in the next few weeks they will be sending my visa petition which is exciting. I got my income tax refund check on Friday so on Monday I'm going to put it in an American account since the Canadian dollar is really good right now.
Other than that, I went and did some Florida shopping. I got a new camera (mine wasn't working too good towards the end of my last program). I just got a really basic Samsung, nothing too fancy. I didn't want to spend too much money since I won't have a warranty on it once I enter the States which sucks. I also got some new summer dresses, some new sweathers and two new bathing suits. I know it seems silly to buy sweathers for Florida but I know I will need them since it can get quite chilly there. Next I need to start looking at getting another piece of luggage and a new carry-on bag. I also need to start going through my clothes and deciding what to bring, what to get rid of, and what to pack away. It's so hard thinking I need to pack for a year.
Other than that, I went and did some Florida shopping. I got a new camera (mine wasn't working too good towards the end of my last program). I just got a really basic Samsung, nothing too fancy. I didn't want to spend too much money since I won't have a warranty on it once I enter the States which sucks. I also got some new summer dresses, some new sweathers and two new bathing suits. I know it seems silly to buy sweathers for Florida but I know I will need them since it can get quite chilly there. Next I need to start looking at getting another piece of luggage and a new carry-on bag. I also need to start going through my clothes and deciding what to bring, what to get rid of, and what to pack away. It's so hard thinking I need to pack for a year.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Ten Weeks Left in Canada
Can't believe I only have ten weeks left at home. There is so much I need to get done. I did get some stuff done on my to do list during the past few weeks so that is good.
Went to Service Ontario to get my health card renewed since it expires on my birthday and asked them what I needed to do since I was leaving the country for a year ( you have to be in the country for like 152 days to maintain your coverage). The lady told me I just need to bring a letter to them a few days before leaving explaining that I have a job for a year, and they will stop my coverage and restart it on my first day back after my contract is done.
Filed my American and Canadian income tax. My Canadian income tax ended up being the exact amount I wanted saved up for Florida so I am feeling a lot better about money. I did start working my second job but I am thinking of giving my notice soon. I had a major freak out a few nights ago about how little time I have left and about not getting everything done. I will probably just work at the science centre for the month of May so I have time to do everything and spend time with my family and friends.
Got all my doctor/eye doctor/dentist appointments booked so I can get those once a year check-ups out of the way. Need to go clothes shopping soon to find some more bathing suits. I went and looked a few weeks ago but they had nothing. I did get some flip flops though so it wasn't a bad shopping trip. I get my March Break paycheck on Friday so next week I will hopefully be purchasing my health insurance. After that all that is really left is paying my program fee and waiting for Yummy Jobs to send me my visa. Both of those things probably won't happen until late April/early May.
In more exciting news, I have some friends from home planning a visit out to Florida in October which is super exciting. For both of them it will be their first Disney experience so I can't wait to show them around what has really become my second home. In August, my roommate from this past summer is coming to visit which will be so much fun. I really love having people come to visit me when I'm in Florida. Well that's about it for now. Sorry for the late delay in writing, things were pretty crazy with March Break and doing everything I needed to get done after March Break.
Went to Service Ontario to get my health card renewed since it expires on my birthday and asked them what I needed to do since I was leaving the country for a year ( you have to be in the country for like 152 days to maintain your coverage). The lady told me I just need to bring a letter to them a few days before leaving explaining that I have a job for a year, and they will stop my coverage and restart it on my first day back after my contract is done.
Filed my American and Canadian income tax. My Canadian income tax ended up being the exact amount I wanted saved up for Florida so I am feeling a lot better about money. I did start working my second job but I am thinking of giving my notice soon. I had a major freak out a few nights ago about how little time I have left and about not getting everything done. I will probably just work at the science centre for the month of May so I have time to do everything and spend time with my family and friends.
Got all my doctor/eye doctor/dentist appointments booked so I can get those once a year check-ups out of the way. Need to go clothes shopping soon to find some more bathing suits. I went and looked a few weeks ago but they had nothing. I did get some flip flops though so it wasn't a bad shopping trip. I get my March Break paycheck on Friday so next week I will hopefully be purchasing my health insurance. After that all that is really left is paying my program fee and waiting for Yummy Jobs to send me my visa. Both of those things probably won't happen until late April/early May.
In more exciting news, I have some friends from home planning a visit out to Florida in October which is super exciting. For both of them it will be their first Disney experience so I can't wait to show them around what has really become my second home. In August, my roommate from this past summer is coming to visit which will be so much fun. I really love having people come to visit me when I'm in Florida. Well that's about it for now. Sorry for the late delay in writing, things were pretty crazy with March Break and doing everything I needed to get done after March Break.
Monday, March 14, 2011
85 more days
On Friday, I picked up my criminal background check and faxed it to Yummy Jobs. Feels great to take another thing off my to-do list. Next up is purchasing my health insurance. Since I am doing a year-long contract, I am allowed to receive Disney's health insurance after I have passed my probation period. That means I only need to purchase insurance for 4 months before I leave. I'm going to use the same company I used last summer which is recommended by the recruiters. As soon as I get my awesome March Break paycheck in April, I will buy it. I also want to get some more luggage since mine barely made it home from Florida last summer. Plus, I want to get a new camera but I am hoping someone will buy me one for my birthday.
Other than that, not much new to report. It's March Break right now so it's super busy at work which is nice. A few weeks ago, I mentioned how Le Cellier was becoming a signature restaurant and I found this blog about it on the Disney Parks website:
Le Cellier
The chocolate dessert looks so delicious!
Other than that, not much new to report. It's March Break right now so it's super busy at work which is nice. A few weeks ago, I mentioned how Le Cellier was becoming a signature restaurant and I found this blog about it on the Disney Parks website:
Le Cellier
The chocolate dessert looks so delicious!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Three Months To Go
So I am totally writing this blog listening to Disney Park music. I am starting to get super excited now. The 3 month mark makes it feel like this is actually going to happen. As excited as I was when I got hired in October, it was hard to believe this was actually happening since I had to wait like 7 1/2 months for it.
I went and ordered my police check last week and it will be ready for pick up on Thursday. The only trouble is I work 9:30am-4:30pm Thursday and Friday so hopefully I get a chance to go before work or I will have to wait until next week to send it in to Yummy Jobs.
The biggest question on my mind right now is what housing complex I will be living in. For the ICP, you can live in Vista Way, Chatham Sqaure, or Patterson Court. I have lived in Vista and Chatham. While Vista will always have a special place in my heart because I spent my first program there, I loved Chatham. It was so nice, clean, and still fairly new and not run down. I loved it so much I wish I could live there again!
Originally, CRPs could only live in the Commons but they have been letting participants live in Patterson. I'm so torn on where I would want to live. While the Commons would be great since it's where the majority of the CRPs will be, Patterson is so gorgeous. The only con with Patterson is there is no bus service so I would have to walk to the Chatham bus stop but beyond that I could definitely see myself spending the next year of my life living there. Either way, I love the area where I will be living. It's called Little Lake Bryan and is such a gorgeous little community. There's a Publix and Walgreens within walking distance so I can definitely avoid taking the awful Walmart bus once I'm settled in. Plus, it's like a five minute walk to the outlet mall which is awesome. Especially for my Starbucks addiction. I just wish I could know where I was living and who my roommates will be (and where they will be from). I'm really hoping I get a 2 bedroom apartment again like I had last summer, that worked out perfectly. Oh well, guess I will have to wait until June 7th to get the answers to my questions!
I went and ordered my police check last week and it will be ready for pick up on Thursday. The only trouble is I work 9:30am-4:30pm Thursday and Friday so hopefully I get a chance to go before work or I will have to wait until next week to send it in to Yummy Jobs.
The biggest question on my mind right now is what housing complex I will be living in. For the ICP, you can live in Vista Way, Chatham Sqaure, or Patterson Court. I have lived in Vista and Chatham. While Vista will always have a special place in my heart because I spent my first program there, I loved Chatham. It was so nice, clean, and still fairly new and not run down. I loved it so much I wish I could live there again!
Originally, CRPs could only live in the Commons but they have been letting participants live in Patterson. I'm so torn on where I would want to live. While the Commons would be great since it's where the majority of the CRPs will be, Patterson is so gorgeous. The only con with Patterson is there is no bus service so I would have to walk to the Chatham bus stop but beyond that I could definitely see myself spending the next year of my life living there. Either way, I love the area where I will be living. It's called Little Lake Bryan and is such a gorgeous little community. There's a Publix and Walgreens within walking distance so I can definitely avoid taking the awful Walmart bus once I'm settled in. Plus, it's like a five minute walk to the outlet mall which is awesome. Especially for my Starbucks addiction. I just wish I could know where I was living and who my roommates will be (and where they will be from). I'm really hoping I get a 2 bedroom apartment again like I had last summer, that worked out perfectly. Oh well, guess I will have to wait until June 7th to get the answers to my questions!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Double Digits
So the countdown is now officially in double digits which is super exciting. I'm starting to realize how soon my start date is which has me feeling a bit panicked. I'm definitely worried I won't have as much money as I like saved up but luckily I got a second job last week so hopefully I can save up a lot of money during the next few months.
Not much new to report. I still haven't gone to get my police check (I've been so lazy on my days off) but am definitely going to go on Wednesday since I want it sent in before March Break starts at work. I also found out I need to go talk to someone about my health card and making sure I don't lose any of my lovely Canadian health benefits when I come back from Disney. There are so many little things that I never really thought about doing the ICP that now I need to think about. In more exciting news, I found out some girls I worked with last summer in the Backlands are going to be coming back to do another program at Disney so I will know some familiar faces down there.
Besides that I've just been searching for and reading as many CRP blogs as I can, especially ones that deal with working food and beverage. I went for a job interview with Boston Pizza last week and the manager told me he didn't see me as a server which has made me a bit nervous since that is what I will be doing eventually during my program. I have very little food experience except for the five times I worked Writer's Stop this summer during my ICP and working Cafe at Science North so this is definitely going to be a challenging and new experience for me. At least I start off in the popcorn cart which I have lots of experience doing from working Cafe. Tomorrow the restaurant I will be working in turns into a signature dining experience so I'm really curious to hear about the changes that are going to happen. I will be definitely checking some of my favourite Disney news web sites tomorrow :).
Not much new to report. I still haven't gone to get my police check (I've been so lazy on my days off) but am definitely going to go on Wednesday since I want it sent in before March Break starts at work. I also found out I need to go talk to someone about my health card and making sure I don't lose any of my lovely Canadian health benefits when I come back from Disney. There are so many little things that I never really thought about doing the ICP that now I need to think about. In more exciting news, I found out some girls I worked with last summer in the Backlands are going to be coming back to do another program at Disney so I will know some familiar faces down there.
Besides that I've just been searching for and reading as many CRP blogs as I can, especially ones that deal with working food and beverage. I went for a job interview with Boston Pizza last week and the manager told me he didn't see me as a server which has made me a bit nervous since that is what I will be doing eventually during my program. I have very little food experience except for the five times I worked Writer's Stop this summer during my ICP and working Cafe at Science North so this is definitely going to be a challenging and new experience for me. At least I start off in the popcorn cart which I have lots of experience doing from working Cafe. Tomorrow the restaurant I will be working in turns into a signature dining experience so I'm really curious to hear about the changes that are going to happen. I will be definitely checking some of my favourite Disney news web sites tomorrow :).
Thursday, February 17, 2011
110 More Days
So the countdown is quickly approaching under 100 days which is super exciting. Nothing much new to report, going to order my criminal background check next week so I can get it sent off to Yummy Jobs in the next two weeks. I thought I would write about the application process tonight for anyone who is reading this and thinking about applying for one of the programs at Disney.
The applications for the start dates I was interested in opened on July 1st so as soon as I got home from celebrating Canada's Day with my friends at Epcot, I applied. I wasn't sure I would be allowed to apply since I was still doing my ICP but it let me. I didn't have much time to think about my application since I was busy enjoying my last month on the program but two weeks after I sent in my application I got the lovely e-mail saying I was being considered for the program and would be contacted with further information in the next few days. So the next step was a phone interview which I scheduled to have the day after I got home from Florida. Even though this was the third time I was doing this, I was still pretty nervous. So my phone interview was a quick 5-10 minute chat about why I want to go back, what I would share with guests about my culture and where I'm from, and some general questions. So then came the awful waiting to see if I would get invited to the final round of interviews. Luckily two weeks later I got the e-mail inviting me to the face to face interview. At that time, there wasn't much information available on the face to face interview except that it was going to be in Toronto around early October.
So a few weeks later I got the e-mail telling me the interviews would be taking place October 3rd at Ryerson which was where my second ICP interview took place. So I quickly worked on booking the 2cd, 3rd, and 4th off from work and booking a hotel. Luckily the month of September went by really quickly and before I knew it, I was heading to Toronto. My mom came along with me on the trip which was great since it's always good to have some moral support for these things. So first thing we did when we got to Toronto was of course go shopping! Then we met up with my aunt Ruth to have dinner at Mr. Greenjeans (one of my favourite restaurants) and then I met up with some of the applicants at the hotel to hang out and talk about Disney of course. It was so great meeting up with them because it always helps to see some familiar faces the next day. So after that was done, I watched some Sex and the City and then went to bed.
So we agreed to meet at 8am the next day to walk over to Ryerson since the interviews started at 8:30 and so that way we could make a pit stop at Starbucks. While we were waiting in line at Starbucks, there was a group of people in line before us very professionally dressed with suitcases. I recognized Kristen right away (the awesome Yummy Jobs recruiter) and knew it was the Yummy Jobs team and the Walt Disney recruiters which was super exciting.
So we arrived at the interview location and waited until they were ready for us to enter the room. The interview starts off by watching a presentation about Disney and the CRP. It was hard not to get teary eyed during the presentation since it made me realize how much I miss the Mouse. After the presentation, we got our interview times. Mine wasn't until the afternoon so myself and two girls who had afternoon interview times decided to go eat some breakfast and wander around the Eaton Centre (and of course we made a pit stop at the Disney Store).
Soon it was time to head back and get ready for the interview. Soon it was my turn to hand in all my paperwork and wait to be called into the room. I interviewed with a girl from Newmarket and it really was just a simple, easy chat. I was worried since my interview for my second ICP was so intense but this interview felt more like chatting with one of my managers at Disney. Most of the questions were personality based or about family traditions. The recruiter seemed to understand that the ICP was different from the CRP, and that doing this program would be a different experience which was good. Before I knew it the interview was over and it was back to the awful waiting game.
So I spent the next two weeks constantly checking my e-mail and finally on October 18th, I got the phone call saying I had a role offer!
For anyone who is interviewing soon or thinking of applying this summer, the Disney interview is so much fun. They really just want to get to know you and see what you can bring to this experience. Good luck!
The applications for the start dates I was interested in opened on July 1st so as soon as I got home from celebrating Canada's Day with my friends at Epcot, I applied. I wasn't sure I would be allowed to apply since I was still doing my ICP but it let me. I didn't have much time to think about my application since I was busy enjoying my last month on the program but two weeks after I sent in my application I got the lovely e-mail saying I was being considered for the program and would be contacted with further information in the next few days. So the next step was a phone interview which I scheduled to have the day after I got home from Florida. Even though this was the third time I was doing this, I was still pretty nervous. So my phone interview was a quick 5-10 minute chat about why I want to go back, what I would share with guests about my culture and where I'm from, and some general questions. So then came the awful waiting to see if I would get invited to the final round of interviews. Luckily two weeks later I got the e-mail inviting me to the face to face interview. At that time, there wasn't much information available on the face to face interview except that it was going to be in Toronto around early October.
So a few weeks later I got the e-mail telling me the interviews would be taking place October 3rd at Ryerson which was where my second ICP interview took place. So I quickly worked on booking the 2cd, 3rd, and 4th off from work and booking a hotel. Luckily the month of September went by really quickly and before I knew it, I was heading to Toronto. My mom came along with me on the trip which was great since it's always good to have some moral support for these things. So first thing we did when we got to Toronto was of course go shopping! Then we met up with my aunt Ruth to have dinner at Mr. Greenjeans (one of my favourite restaurants) and then I met up with some of the applicants at the hotel to hang out and talk about Disney of course. It was so great meeting up with them because it always helps to see some familiar faces the next day. So after that was done, I watched some Sex and the City and then went to bed.
So we agreed to meet at 8am the next day to walk over to Ryerson since the interviews started at 8:30 and so that way we could make a pit stop at Starbucks. While we were waiting in line at Starbucks, there was a group of people in line before us very professionally dressed with suitcases. I recognized Kristen right away (the awesome Yummy Jobs recruiter) and knew it was the Yummy Jobs team and the Walt Disney recruiters which was super exciting.
So we arrived at the interview location and waited until they were ready for us to enter the room. The interview starts off by watching a presentation about Disney and the CRP. It was hard not to get teary eyed during the presentation since it made me realize how much I miss the Mouse. After the presentation, we got our interview times. Mine wasn't until the afternoon so myself and two girls who had afternoon interview times decided to go eat some breakfast and wander around the Eaton Centre (and of course we made a pit stop at the Disney Store).
Soon it was time to head back and get ready for the interview. Soon it was my turn to hand in all my paperwork and wait to be called into the room. I interviewed with a girl from Newmarket and it really was just a simple, easy chat. I was worried since my interview for my second ICP was so intense but this interview felt more like chatting with one of my managers at Disney. Most of the questions were personality based or about family traditions. The recruiter seemed to understand that the ICP was different from the CRP, and that doing this program would be a different experience which was good. Before I knew it the interview was over and it was back to the awful waiting game.
So I spent the next two weeks constantly checking my e-mail and finally on October 18th, I got the phone call saying I had a role offer!
For anyone who is interviewing soon or thinking of applying this summer, the Disney interview is so much fun. They really just want to get to know you and see what you can bring to this experience. Good luck!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
4 Months To Go!
So we are now at the 4 month mark which is super exciting. Time is definitely going to fly by now and before I know it, I will be back on that Mears shuttle heading towards the welcome centre. I am definitely 100% ready for this program to start.
One of the CRP groups I belong to has a discussion going on about things you want to do and see while in Florida, and that got me thinking about stuff that I want to do during my year. So here is my list of things I want to do and see:
1) Do Give Kids The World (I tried to do this during both my ICPs and it just didn't work out since I rarely had a Sunday or Wednesday off, it is definitely #1 on my list this time)
2) Go to Sea World
3) Finally get a chance to go on Soarin'
4) Swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove
5) Do every single character dining experience there is
6) Visit Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure
7) Go to Vegas
8) Go to the Kennedy Space Centre
9) Do a Disney Cruise
10) Do every single tacky tourist thing there is in Orlando (like Gatorland and Holy Land)
11) Go to NYC
12) Drink and eat around the world
13) Go see Cirque du Soleil again
14) Attend Disney's Halloween and Christmas parties
15) Go to New Orleans
16) Do the Haunted Mansion backstage tour
17) Go to the Florida Everglades
18) Try and stay in every single Disney resort
19) Buy myself some shoes at Jimmy Choo
20) Go to Universal's Halloween Horror Nights
21) Visit California (would like to visit San Diego, San Fransisco, Hollywood, the Santa Monica Pier, Beverly Hills, and go to Universal Studios Hollywood)
22) Try and do as many workshops and special Disney courses that are offered at the Disney University
23) Go to Weeki Wachi Springs (one word: mermaids!)
24) Go to Busch Gardens
25) Do the Haunted Orlando Ghost Tour
26) Go to Old Town
27) Eat the Kitchen Sink at Beaches and Cream
28) Go to South Beach as many times as I can
29) Visit Key West
30) Go to Clearwater as much as I can (Clearwater and South Beach are tied for my favourite beaches in Florida)
31) Go to St. Augustine (this is for my mom, she has always wanted to go)
32) Have some great reunions with some of my friends from the ICP
33) Go to one of the midnight showings of Rocky Horror Picture Show at AMC Universal
34) Visit Washington DC
35) Watch Wishes, Illuminations, and Fantasmic as many times as I can
36) Go to the Bahamas
37) Visit Salem (I have always been interested in the history of the witch trials and have always wanted to go here)
38) Go to an Orlando Magic game
39) Visit the Orlando Science Centre
40) Go to Jellyrolls at least three times a month
41) Spend some time at Mickey's Retreat
42) Go to Dinosaur World
43) Spend as much time as I can in the parks
Hopefully I can accomplish everything on my list. Some of this stuff on my list is stuff I tried to get done during both my ICPs but didn't get the chance. Some stuff, like South Beach and Clearwater, are favourites from my past programs that I want to repeat as much as possible.
One of the CRP groups I belong to has a discussion going on about things you want to do and see while in Florida, and that got me thinking about stuff that I want to do during my year. So here is my list of things I want to do and see:
1) Do Give Kids The World (I tried to do this during both my ICPs and it just didn't work out since I rarely had a Sunday or Wednesday off, it is definitely #1 on my list this time)
2) Go to Sea World
3) Finally get a chance to go on Soarin'
4) Swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove
5) Do every single character dining experience there is
6) Visit Disneyland and Disney's California Adventure
7) Go to Vegas
8) Go to the Kennedy Space Centre
9) Do a Disney Cruise
10) Do every single tacky tourist thing there is in Orlando (like Gatorland and Holy Land)
11) Go to NYC
12) Drink and eat around the world
13) Go see Cirque du Soleil again
14) Attend Disney's Halloween and Christmas parties
15) Go to New Orleans
16) Do the Haunted Mansion backstage tour
17) Go to the Florida Everglades
18) Try and stay in every single Disney resort
19) Buy myself some shoes at Jimmy Choo
20) Go to Universal's Halloween Horror Nights
21) Visit California (would like to visit San Diego, San Fransisco, Hollywood, the Santa Monica Pier, Beverly Hills, and go to Universal Studios Hollywood)
22) Try and do as many workshops and special Disney courses that are offered at the Disney University
23) Go to Weeki Wachi Springs (one word: mermaids!)
24) Go to Busch Gardens
25) Do the Haunted Orlando Ghost Tour
26) Go to Old Town
27) Eat the Kitchen Sink at Beaches and Cream
28) Go to South Beach as many times as I can
29) Visit Key West
30) Go to Clearwater as much as I can (Clearwater and South Beach are tied for my favourite beaches in Florida)
31) Go to St. Augustine (this is for my mom, she has always wanted to go)
32) Have some great reunions with some of my friends from the ICP
33) Go to one of the midnight showings of Rocky Horror Picture Show at AMC Universal
34) Visit Washington DC
35) Watch Wishes, Illuminations, and Fantasmic as many times as I can
36) Go to the Bahamas
37) Visit Salem (I have always been interested in the history of the witch trials and have always wanted to go here)
38) Go to an Orlando Magic game
39) Visit the Orlando Science Centre
40) Go to Jellyrolls at least three times a month
41) Spend some time at Mickey's Retreat
42) Go to Dinosaur World
43) Spend as much time as I can in the parks
Hopefully I can accomplish everything on my list. Some of this stuff on my list is stuff I tried to get done during both my ICPs but didn't get the chance. Some stuff, like South Beach and Clearwater, are favourites from my past programs that I want to repeat as much as possible.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
135 more days
Finally found a good seat sale on West Jet so I booked my flight last week. It now feels a bit more real with the flight booked. I'm taking the same flight I took on my past two programs so I'll be arriving in Orlando at 1pm on the 7th, which is good since it will give me time to do my first Walmart Trip and settle in before the exciting early morning of filling out immigration paperwork and attending housing presentations.
Now all I need to do is : 1) Get Background check
2) Buy health insurance
3) Get my visa
4) Pay program fee
5) Pack
Can't believe it's only 135 more days until I'm back in Florida!
Now all I need to do is : 1) Get Background check
2) Buy health insurance
3) Get my visa
4) Pay program fee
5) Pack
Can't believe it's only 135 more days until I'm back in Florida!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Where I will be working
So I didn't say much about where I would be working in my first post. I will be working food and beverage in the Canadian pavilion so I will start off in the popcorn cart and then make my way up to being a server at Le Cellier. I never got the chance to eat there but have tried their poutine and breadsticks thanks to my dear friend Mike and it was amazing. For those who have not been to Disney before, I will be working in the Epcot theme park. Epcot is made up of two parts: Future World and World Showcase. I will be working in the World Showcase section which is made up of different countries from all over the world. Here is a link to read more about the Canadian pavilion:
Canada Pavilion
Canada Pavilion
Monday, January 10, 2011
Five Months To Go
So I've tried to keep a blog on my past two ICP's but failed miserably. Those three months I was in Florida just flew by and before I knew it I was back in Canada. This time, I am determined to keep a blog and update it on a regular basis. So for those who have not heard me blab non stop about what I will be doing this year, in June I will move back to Orlando, Florida to start a one-year contract at Walt Disney World as a Cultural Representative. I will be working in the Canadian pavilion at Epcot so yes I will be working in Canada at Florida. I first heard about this program when I was 16 while on a family trip to Disney and it has always been in the back of my mind. I have worked for Disney twice before doing the International College Program and had so much fun. Working at Disney is a life changing experience and I'm so grateful that I get a third chance to go back.
Right now there isn't much to write about since there is still another five months to go but I hope to keep this updated with some interesting info while I wait to leave.
Right now there isn't much to write about since there is still another five months to go but I hope to keep this updated with some interesting info while I wait to leave.
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