Pop Quiz
1. What is the name of the fifth tallest roller coaster in the world?
2. What amusement park spans across two neighboring states?
Answer
Fury 325 is the fifth tallest, and fifth longest steel roller caster in the world, and is part of Carowinds amusement park. “Carowinds is the place where the Carolinas come together.” It’s located off I-77 (Exit 90) at the North Carolina/South Carolina border.
The first few days of my internship at Carowinds took place within the fourth of July holiday week. Though it was a while ago, in those four days, it became clear that I would not be able to look at an amusement park in the same way as I used to. I mean, I experienced parks like everyone else — on the surface level only. The key goal being — to have fun. So my focus has always been on enjoying the rides, games, entertainment and food. However, having a quick glimpse into the amount of behind the scenes planning, collaboration, communication, technology, art, craft, design, science, math, engineering and building that takes place throughout the course of each year in preparation for the open season has been truly eye-opening.
Thus far I’ve spent time learning about the different areas of operations — from firsthand park experience and the marketing call center, to the ins and outs of the water park. Each area takes an extreme amount of knowledge, skill, preparation (before and after closing), patience and constant learning to keep up with North Carolina and South Carolina regulations and requirements. There’s no doubt about it, our students need to understand that learning is an ongoing process. You simply cannot grow without expanding your knowledge. While planning and problem solving are must have skill sets for 21st century learning, so I definitely want to include both to areas I intend to focus on this school year.
Thankfully I still have some time left to experience other areas of operation, so I’m wondering what additional takeaways I’ll gather.