Jade Tom ’20 will begin role in the sales department at Walt Disney Company

Like all recent graduates, Jade Tom ’20 entered the job market during the COVID-19 pandemic and record high rates of unemployment. The Eberhardt School of Business graduate has a bachelor of science in business administration and was determined to utilize it at the happiest place on earth, Disney. Despite the challenges, just two months after graduation she has been hired as a sales intern with the Walt Disney Company. 

Tom has always had a fascination with Disney; she grew up watching Disney movies and visiting the parks. During her last visit, she knew that was the company she wanted to work for. Tom explains, “I saw the smiles, enjoyment and happiness around me and knew I wanted to make an impact in bringing the magic to life.” 

Her advice for other students who are trying to find an internship or job during the COVID-19 pandemic is to utilize this time to invest in yourself and develop hard skills outside of coursework. In addition, she suggests to network online while we are all social distancing, “If you are interested in a specific company, try reaching out to current employees through LinkedIn and ask them about the hiring process. Sometimes they will be able to help or direct you to the right contact.” 

Samantha Pfeiffer, the assistant director of employer engagement and internship development in Career Services explains that the future of remote internships is bright. “I encourage students and alumni to use the university’s job board, Handshake, because we are seeing an increase in the number of remote internship opportunities posted. I also suggest to make an appointment with a Career Services advisor, so we can help you navigate your internship search and utilize the resources available to you as a Pacific student.”

While in school Tom attended multiple Career Services events, including Mock Interview Week and Meet the Firms Career Fair. She also went on a Tiger Trek, where students are able to visit a company to learn more about what it’s like to work there. The Tiger Trek she attended was to LinkedIn, “I was able to develop my communication skills, learn about what recruiters look for and how to make myself stand out, and connect with business professionals.” 

Students and alumni can make an appointment with a Career Services advisor through Handshake.