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Theo Porter
Manager, Fantasyland Attractions
I like to say that I grew up with Disney. I lived only an hour away from the Magic Kingdom® Park, and my family and I came here often. I loved the place, and at a very young age, I knew I wanted to work here.
I went to Florida A&M University, and I had no idea what I was going to do or what I was going to major in. I spent four years there without choosing a major - all I knew was where I wanted to work. I had no idea that was going to help make my dream come true. One day, I came across a poster with Mickey Mouse on it. I figured there was no harm in going to the information session. If nothing else, I could ask that person how I could get my foot in the door.
I interviewed and was selected to work as a Monorail
Host in summer 1994. This was my first real job, and I loved it. The following
summer, I was back as an Advanced Intern* in Guest Relations at the Magic
Kingdom Park. It was this experience that I credit for getting me on the
right path and out of college. I loved the business side and all the stuff that
I learned about professionalism. I decided then (five years after starting
college) that my major would be English. I finished my program and graduated in
1997.
My managers remembered me and allowed me to come back full-time as a Guest Relations Host. Two years later, I accepted a temporary salaried position as a Guest Relations manager. I became manager of Fantasyland Attractions three years later.
When I started at the Walt Disney World® Resort back in 1994, I was a quiet, shy boy with very little confidence in myself. When I left my first program, I became more outgoing. When I completed my second program, I left even stronger. Not only did the College Program change me personally, it also changed me professionally. I had a goal. I had a purpose.
During my seven years with the company, I have made some great friends. I have met celebrities, taught Traditions, opened other parks and became a finalist for the Walt Disney World Ambassador Program.
Being on the College Program taught me a lot about myself and my abilities. I am thankful that I went outside of the box and interviewed for the program. The College Program is what you make of it. It can be a working vacation, a learning experience or lead to a long-term career with the company. You decide how Mickey and his friends can best help you achieve your goals. I would suggest that you still remember you're here to make magic for our Guests and have an obligation to your area to display professional behavior at all times, but don't discount the fun and the learning experience that are also a part of the program. The College Program truly is a journey that can change you.
Theo Porter
Manager, Fantasyland Attractions
Magic Kingdom Park
* "Advanced Internships" and "Management Internship"s are now called "Professional Internships". Additional information is available here.
