Aspiring Stories: First-Generation Graduate Captures New Photography Role at Disneyland Resort
Originally published at Disney Parks News
Theodore “Teddo” Corbin’s lifelong passion for photography has served him well as a Disney PhotoPass photographer. Ever since he was hired at the Disneyland Resort 10 years ago. However, the bachelor’s degree he earned last year in digital photography through the Disney Aspire program recently propelled him into the role he’d been dreaming of photographer for the Disneyland Resort special events team.
“I’ve been trying to get involved with special events my entire Disney career … so, for the past 10 years,” Teddo shared. “I was so grateful for the opportunity to interview for the role. And truly feel that the new doors that are opening for me as a recent graduate are incredible.”
Although Teddo did not initially intend to pursue further higher education upon completion of an associate degree in 2015, he decided to go back to school the year before the Disney Aspire program began. After facing high out-of-state tuition fees at institutions around the country, he was grateful for the 2018 launch of Disney Aspire. Which pays full tuition up-front and reimburses fees for the eligible hourly cast. He received his degree from Southern New Hampshire University last Nov. Making him the first person in his family to obtain a bachelor’s degree.
“The academic program itself made me feel super nervous. As I’d never done online classes before,” he said. “But the Guild, [Disney] Aspire, and Southern New Hampshire teams were really dedicated. To make sure that I was on track and doing the best that I could.”
Teddo finds being a first-generation graduate an immense honor. And, along with a new body of work through a varied portfolio and new role, he now has a triumph he can take with him throughout his career.
“I never in my entire life thought I would have a bachelor’s and be a first-gen graduate,” Teddo shared. “Because of Aspire, I’m able to hold my head up a little bit higher than I ever have before.”
Disney Aspire is the most comprehensive education investment program of its kind. Offering 125+ programs at a network of educational institutions nationwide. As part of The Walt Disney Company’s commitment to supporting its employees and cast members, Disney Aspire puts #DreamsWithinReach. By removing key barriers to enrollment and inspiring career mobility. For more information about Disney Aspire, or to sign up, eligible Disney employees and cast members can visit aspire.disney.com.
