Berks County resident James "Jimmy" Murray, a junior at Penn State Berks, fell in love with Walt Disney World in Orlando as a youngster and always hoped to work there someday. Today, Murray is living his dream as he completes an internship program this semester at the park, nicknamed the "Happiest Place on Earth."

Murray first applied for an internship with the Disney College Program in 2020, but the park was then closed due to the pandemic. He applied again in May this year.

He had to complete an application, which included a multiple-choice test, and take part in a web-based interview. "(They test) you with about 100 to 150 multiple-choice questions," he explained. "They ask what you would do in certain situations and how you would feel about being away from your family."

Murray works in the World of Disney retail store, and he is being trained to fill in at any of Disney's retail locations when needed, which is likely to happen as Walt Disney World's 50th anniversary celebration began earlier this month. In addition, the World of Disney store will also celebrate its 25th anniversary in October.

Murray said that while he is currently working 30 to 40 hours a week, he expects his hours to increase this month with both anniversary celebrations and additional holiday traffic in the park. "I will slowly go over 40 (hours) with the anniversaries and with Christmas," he said. "I mainly work on stocking, on the register and interacting with guests."

Murray is able to save money by living with family members in Orlando, rather than paying rent for intern housing. "My (relatives) moved (to Florida) from Reading in 2008," he noted. "That's who we stayed with (while visiting)."

In January 2022, Murray will return to Penn State Berks, where he plans to complete his degree and graduate in 2023. He is interested in sports marketing and plans to pursue a certificate in sports administration at the college. His goal is to work in the front office of a professional sports team after graduation.

He said his current role as an intern will prepare him for a future career. "Everyone has to go through the same eight-hour (orientation) once they get hired," he explained. "There are things I heard that stick with me when I work - making sure the guests come first, going the extra step for them and how to act in certain situations."

He said the company offers a program that allows crew members to be recognized by their co-workers as well as the public. "I have gotten recognized, which can motivate you to do well," he said. "Because of the impact that (working here) has on you, it changes you as a person. Once you know (the Disney) work ethic, you can do everything."

Murray, who comes from a Penn State family, is a past member of the college's NCAA Division III basketball team and the men's volleyball club. "I talk to hundreds of people a day at Disney. I wouldn't be where I am if it weren't for Penn State Berks," he added. "I like to say that it doesn't feel like I'm working sometimes."