She started pursuing a path in storytelling but it led to helping others make memories.
Julia Guffey is a storyteller, to be sure. When she started college her direction was headed toward the creative field. She enrolled as film production major.
She started at Missouri State ready to do what it takes to become a professional storyteller. Julia was particularly interested in animation and directing.
“(In hospitality leadership), I get to be part of telling a story and encouraging guests to live their best lives.”
An 'enriching' experience
Out of these interests, she looked for intern opportunities. She joined the Disney College Program.
“The experience was extremely enriching. I met people from all over the world and I spent my days off in the happiest place on Earth. I got to learn about food from around the world, take backstage tours and learn about engineering, I met Disney international ambassadors, I was a Disney artist and worked in all four parks,” says Julia.
She interned at SeaWorld, where her role in guest-services was hands-on.
“I realized how special it was to be part of creating and maintaining lasting memories for our guests. That’s when I knew I wanted to be part of that for the rest of my life.”
Change of plans
She moved back to Missouri and changed her major. Now, she’s a hospitality leadership major, pursuing minors in marketing and geotourism.
“Hospitality is amazing because of the opportunity it affords you to meet so many new people on a daily basis. I have been fortunate enough to meet people from all over the world and from many different cultural backgrounds.
“This allows me to gain a broader perspective on cultural identities and the importance of diversity. This industry will allow me to travel the globe and grow tremendously in the process.”
She’s already getting a head start on her travel plans. For spring break, she visited friends in Spain, whom she met in the Disney College Program. She’s looking forward to graduation in May 2019.
“After graduation, I will be doing marketing for Hotel Nikko in San Francisco.”
Eventually, she has her sights set on becoming a creative director.
