Mentor Office Visit with Jeff Larson

Jeff Larson – Vice President of Marketing Strategy at Disneyland Parks & Resorts

One of the most beneficial programs I’ve taken part in as an MBA student at Chapman University is the Mentor Program.
Argyros Career Services
offers the program to all MBA students by matching them with a professional in their field of interest for guidance and direction.

I say “matched” because mentors and mentees select one another at a networking event hosted by the career services team.  Students are required to apply, and then attend a breakfast to meet the mentors on a personal level. Mentees and mentors select their top three, which allows for both parties to participate in the decision process. The Argyros Career Services team compares the lists and finalizes the match.  After the match is complete, the mentor and mentee develop a professional relationship that lasts beyond the
MBA program
.

My mentor is Jeff Larson, Vice President of Marketing Strategy at Disneyland Parks & Resorts. This past week I was given the opportunity to shadow what a “day in the life” would be like in Mr. Larson’s role. I had an opportunity to attend meetings with top executives and debrief. In one meeting, I observed challenges around brand management, which is a topic I had discussed in my marketing classes.  I had the privilege of observing real life scenarios by combining my academics with practical experiences. It was truly a spectacular and memorable experience.

To top it off, I was able to speak to current interns and associates about the application and interview process. Disney employees gave me the scoop on what it is like to be working at “the happiest place on earth”.  I received insider information that I would not have received in the classroom.

The entire experience was
invaluable
and was all made possible because of my incredible mentor Jeff Larson.