Disney World - The Online Guide - Cast Member Interview

Cast Member Interview

Interview with - Brandon Hoover

How long have you worked at WDW?
I worked on the college program from Jan-May of 2001

Where in WDW do you work?
I worked in Animal Kingdom at Flame Tree BBQ

What would be a typical day's work for you?
I would on most days go in at 10am and help prepare the counter area for that day. We opened at 10:30am. We would have a pre-opening meeting every morning and we would get to taste some of the food, so we would know what we were serving our guests. During the day, I did anything from fixing drinks, to seving food, to stocking the counters. Sometimes in the afternoons, I would pick up extra shifts at Creature Comforts (merchandise), where I would help stock the store, close up, and help count money.

What do you like most about working at WDW?
Being able to make the disney magic happen everyday. From making a kid's day brighter, to helping lost tourist find their way around the parks. It's all an incredible experience that I will never forget.

Do you have a particular magical memory that sticks in your mind, from working at WDW?
Once while at work, I was outside cleaning the tables, and I noticed a little kid standing alone and looking like he was about to cry. I went up to him, and asked if anything was wrong. He said that he was lost and couldn't find his parents. I told him that I would help him find his parents. I went and told my managers what I was doing, and I took him to child services. All of Disney parks have a computer system where parents can put in information if their child or other party members are missing. I went and checked the computer and his parents had put out a message. I entered that I had found the kid, so they could page the parents to let them know. They were there to get their lost child in no time. They were so grateful and so thankful. I said it was part of my job.

If you could give one tip to someone visiting WDW, what would it be?
Make sure to plan time in your day to see some of the shows in the parks. They are wonderful. Espically The Lion King show in Animal Kingdom. Also, if you are staying for a week, visit some of the different resorts. They are all really neat, and it can be fun. Go eat at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at Disney's Beach Club resort. They have really good ice cream, and if you think you can handle it go for the Kitchen Sink.

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