Traditions

Traditions. What does the word mean to you? Maybe it's the memories of holidays spent with family. Maybe it's repeated rituals within groups and families. Maybe it's playing a game of cards with your family. To Webster, it is "the handing down of information, beliefs, and customs by word of mouth or by example from one generation to another without written instruction".

In the WDW College Program, Traditions is the first step in becoming an official cast member for the company. It's a class, usually given to about 70 people at a time (but multiple groups go at once), in which the newcomers learn about the practices, business policies, and even a few trade secrets of Walt Disney World. SHH!

We got a tour of backstage and onstage, given by someone who's been with the Disney company for quite a while. She showed us examples of the four keys to success: Show, Courtesy, Efficiency, and Safety. Then she asked us to find some. I had never noticed just how helpful the employees... excuses me... cast members are here. From things like taking a picture for a family, to pointing out where certain rides are and even recommending rides depending upon the guests' tastes. Cast members do it all!

So, we got back from the little tour and learned a little more about things like the Disney Look and then... MICKEY MOUSE comes in! And guess what he's got! Our name tags!

Yeah, Mickey Mouse brought us our name tags. That's right.

Then we left. Sorry to be anti-climactic, but... that's about it. So now I'm exhausted, but thoroughly pleased with my day.

Until next time!