WORKING

    You'll here this many times before you even interview for the CP. You will not make any money on this trip. This is very true. After taxes, rent, and food, there is little money left. I could have found a job back home and worlked less hours and gotten much more money, but look at it this way, I spent one summer of my life completely enjoying myself and running around Walt Disney World. I knew I wasn't going to make any money so with whatever money I got I gave right back to Disney via food, souvenirs, and other things. I had the best time of my life and have absolutely no regrets. Here's a few thoughts on working...

    Here's where I worked during the summer, The Plaza Pavilion in the Magic Kingdom. It was a Quick Service Restaurant. If you go there today you'll find it in between Main Street and Tomorrowland. The menu consisted of Personal Pizzas, Chicken Fingers, Chicken Salad, and Deli Subs. I worked many hours in at the Plaza, like 50-55 a week. I know it was a lot, but the pay check was nice at the end of the week. I didn't ever have to worry if I would have enough cash to go out one night, That was one of the nice things about the job.

    I spent 5 weeks working in the kitchen. I hated it, I made fries, salads, pizzas, etc. I also had to clean up which meant I would leave until midnight if we were fast. The work wasn't tough but it was mindless, the same thing everyday. I was miserable and everyone could tell.
     I consider myself very knowledgeable about the resort. I could tell you how to get to any attraction, restaurant on propert with ease. It only made sense to put me in a position where I could put that information to use and help out the guests. It was a waste of talent to keep me in the kitchen.
     Well I talked to my managers and half-way into the program I was cross trained as a busser. This was the job I had been hoping for. I cleaned tables, and got to help out the guests. There was a noticeable change in my attitude right away. I was happy. 

    I loved bussing tables a lot, and I recommend that you request that position if you get placed in Quick Service Food. I dind;t have a manager looking over my back at all times, and it was very relaxing for most of the day. I answered all sorts of questions. Here are my two favorites and believe me, I was actually asked them.

Where is the Magic Kingdom?

Excuse me sir, do you work here?

    Seriously, how do I answer that? Ah I where a Disney name tag and a spaceman uniform because I like to, of course I work here! However, as much as you'd like to laugh you need to be friendly and say, you're already in the Magic Kingdom. Polite all the time. It makes for a good story anyway.
     I think I have more stories as a busser than as a Chef, as I called myself. I got to meet all sorts of families from around the world. I would talk to them, help plan out their vacation, take pictures, and just ensure that they have an enjoyable time.
     The busiest times at the Plaza were before the 3 o'clock parade, and right before the fireworks. The Plaza is one of those hidden secrets of Disney. It's one of the best places to watch the fireworks at night. Tinkerbell actually flies right over the tables! During this time the third dining level gets very crowded so the bussers need to make sure that paths are clear and chairs are not being move into areas they shouldn't be. I called this FAC, Firework Audience Control, my own little twist on PAC, Parade Audience Control.

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Last Updated 9-8-00