Think an internship is merely required to fulfill credits? For two Georgian Court University students, they have had a significant impact on their career trajectory.
Emily Novozinsky, a digital communication major, took part in the sought-after Disney College Program. She spent eight months studying online and working at Walt Disney World. Most importantly, it helped her discover a career path—something that had been an obstacle for Emily, who plans to graduate in 2020.
“I struggled for a long time, not finding my niche, or figuring out what I want to do after graduation,” she says.
Through the internship, she realized that she loves guest servicing and hospitality, as well as fostering brand loyalty. During an eye-opening Disney marketing class, she was able to conceptualize ideas to improve vacations and create more magical trips.
Emily says she will pursue another college program in Disneyland upon graduation. She has career aspirations to stay in the guest service and marketing field, even if she cannot work at a Disney park. The internship experience also has her considering a minor in marketing.
“I’m currently taking a few classes on this, and it’s honestly just bringing it all together for me. I am so excited to use my talents that I’ve learned both at GCU and Disney World, in the real world,” she says.
Emily credits her GCU advisor, Gina Marcello, Ph.D., assistant professor of communications and director of the digital communication program, for offering support.
“She set me up for complete success when I was in Disney, and I am so grateful for her. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without her, and the skills—and the core values—that GCU has equipped me with,” Emily adds.
Be sure to check out Emily’s Disney College Program vlog.
Counting On Career Experience
Tiffany Monte, a senior accounting major, commuted to New York City to complete her internship for accounting firm JAD Consulting, LLC. She worked on various client projects, mostly handling Schedule K-1 tax returns, which are for S corporations. This involved calculating taxable income through line deductions on the form and making sure line amounts matched in Microsoft Excel. Copying tax returns for clients was another part of the job, as was organizing the documentation. She also managed bank reconciliations in QuickBooks for business entities.
“I learned a new project through a walkthrough with another full-time coworker for however long it took until they felt I was good enough to do it on my own,” says Tiffany. “I could always ask questions when I was unsure of how to do something; my coworkers were helpful to me.”
Tiffany thinks the internship has prepared her to obtain a full-time job upon graduation and prepare to take the exam to become a certified public accountant (CPA).
The close working relationship with GCU professors have made a huge impact on Tiffany. She enjoys experiencing different courses with the same teachers because she is accustomed to their teaching styles and expectations. They have taken the time to get to know her and develop relationships that have supported her in the classroom—and now, outside of it.
“My professors inspire me to be great in what I do through their own experience stories and expertise in the field, which makes me more passionate about accounting and my future,” says Tiffany. “GCU provides a caring environment where you are a name, not a number—faculty want to hear about your accomplishments during and after college,” she adds.
Adapted from story by Kristen Fischer in the Fall/Winter 2018 issue of GCU Magazine. Photos of Emily supplied by Emily. Photos of Tiffany by Phyllis Schiavone.
