Stillman Student Makes the Most of His Magical Internship
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
Jerry Ford enjoying his Disney College Program celebration with Mickey.
In January 2025, Jerry Ford, a senior majoring in marketing and entrepreneurship, completed the Walt Disney Co.’s Disney College Program. Ford spent seven months in Orlando, Florida, gaining invaluable experience and creating magical moments. From learning about Disney’s immense branding strategies to his role in enhancing guest satisfaction, building brand loyalty and driving business growth as a cast member, he gained useful marketing and entrepreneurial experience in the entertainment industry.
After a 7-month internship, marketing major Jerry Ford became an alumni of the Disney College Program.
Ford worked at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as an attractions cast member, where he was immersed in the storytelling of one of Hollywood Studios’ most popular icons: the Hollywood Tower Hotel. Understanding the intricacies behind this iconic attraction gave Ford insight into the immense time and effort Disney invests in building its narratives. Portraying a character in this storyline while performing job responsibilities simultaneously was essential to providing guests an optimal experience. Additionally, Ford learned about career paths and opportunities throughout the Walt Disney Co. in classes offered to Disney College Program participants.
Courses and experiences at the Stillman School of Business helped Ford make the most of his Disney internship. “The entrepreneurship program at Seton Hall taught me to think outside the box and how to work in teams,” he said. “I was able to showcase my skills daily while working with other cast members as well as interacting with guests. Also, the experience gained pitching my startup Anvillent at Pirates Pitch in spring 2024 helped prepare me to talk to large crowds every day.”
Jerry at the Apprentice Hall display for the history of the Disney College Program.
Ford highly recommends that Seton Hall students apply for the Disney College Program, saying: "Reflecting on my time at Disney, I learned a lot about the entertainment industry and more about the career path I want to explore. However, the one thing I will always remember is the friendships I created throughout my seven months at Disney. A highly memorable activity I didn’t take for granted was exploring the parks with my friends before going to work. I would never change this tremendous experience, and I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to intern at Disney as a Seton Hall student."
If you are interested in this opportunity, click here for more information about the Disney College Program.
Categories: Arts and Culture
