Splash Country Interns Are Diving Into New Experiences

• Dollywood Intern

This blog was written by Public Relations intern Ali Burleson.

Chloe Morgan, Casey Looper and Reb Oxley are making waves from Guest Services to Revenue at Dollywood’s Splash Country and soaking up more than just the Smoky Mountain sun. These college students from Texas A&M, the University of Alabama and Stetson University are among the many who are interning and learning from skilled hosts across Dollywood’s Parks & Resorts. Chloe, Casey and Reb have found an encouraging and welcoming environment within the water park.

For Chloe, the Texas-native who studies Recreational Parks & Tourism Sciences at Texas A&M, an internship with The Dollywood Company was an exciting opportunity that she didn’t want to pass up. So despite the apprehension in moving hundreds of miles from home, she eagerly anticipated arriving in Pigeon Forge. “When I was applying for summer internships, I knew I wanted it to be within hospitality. It’s interesting to see how hospitality works in different parts of the country, and Dollywood is such a large name, known for its high-quality Guest Services and Entertainment,” Chloe said. “Within this environment, I’ve found a new-level of confidence in speaking with guests, answering their questions and finding solutions.”

The Guest Services team at Splash Country compliments Casey’s study of Communications at the University of Alabama in more ways than one. While gaining hands-on experience, this host with the extroverted personality says his best days come from his service to others. “When I look back on the days at work that I enjoy the most, it’s the days I’ve gone the extra mile. Whether that’s finding a child and engaging in conversation, standing in lines or escorting guests, those memorable days come from when I’ve gotten to interact with guests on a deeper, more personal level,” Casey said.

Reb, a Revenue Intern who goes to school at Stetson University, has been able to learn the inner-workings of Merchandise, Food & Beverages, and Photos this summer. The fast-paced job of experiencing different areas of Splash Country fuels her excitement and broadly expands her knowledge. “We only get a few weeks, and there is a lot to learn. There are a lot of people who have worked in different jobs, so I’m just trying to learn and absorb as much as possible,” Reb said. “Eventually we’ll get to act as PIC’s (Persons in Charge), so just being able to work towards that and receive managerial experience makes for a valuable experience itself.”

It’s not all work with no play. These interns have discovered camaraderie among themselves, often gathering outside of work hours for fun. The group often grabs dinner with each other or hits Dollywood or Splash Country to experience the thrill from a guest’s point of view. According to Casey, their aim this summer is clear: "We put on our shorts and Chacos and get ready to conquer the (water park) world."