My Disney College Program Experience
Perhaps one of the the most fulfilling experiences I have had thus far in my (albeit short) life is the opportunity to participate in the Disney College Program. From June 5, 2023 – Jan. 4, 2024, I spent my days immersed in magic- both in my capacity as a cast member, and with the people I feel lucky to call my friends. It’s because of my incredible experience that I will be completing another Disney College Program this summer, and that I would encourage any interested Bucks students to apply.
The Disney College Program, is a work opportunity available to students throughout the United States. Potential applicants must be 18+, and have taken college credits in order to apply. The application was a multi step process. I first had to complete an online questionnaire where I detailed past work experience. From there, I was instructed to complete a web-based interview- essentially, an online personality test. The final step of the interview process is the dreaded phone interview. At a predetermined time, a disney recruiter calls, and spends roughly 20 minutes going over what role you might be best suited for.
From here, the process is streamlined. If memory serves, I found out that I was accepted about a month after my phone interview. Roughly one month before move in day, you find out what role you were assigned. And while I had spent a decade of my life watching YouTube vlogs of Disney College Program participants, nothing could have prepared me to actually take on the role.
Within the online forums where Disney College Program groups post content, it is a widely known fact that there exists a hierarchy of role assignments. In the middle of the pyramid, roles like lifeguarding, merchandise, photo pass, and character attendant fight for dominance. On the top of the pyramid live infamous, glorious roles such as attractions, and character performer. Firmly on the bottom of the pyramid, according to the general consensus, is quick service food and beverage.
My Role, Epcot festivals, is a variant of the quick service food and beverage role. After receiving my role, I spent the next few days researching, wondering what could have gone so wrong in my interview to be assigned Epcot Festivals. In my research, I learned that festivals cast members typically work long hours outside, or within un-airconditioned booths. As a northern girl who burns easily, this was damning information.
And while I won’t say that my role was all smooth sailing, I will say that I consider it to be one of my biggest blessings. Because of the seasonal nature of the festivals, I had the experience of switching roles between festivals. Aside from Epcot Festivals, I had the
opportunity to work at Cosmic Rays, (Magic Kingdom) and Flame Tree Barbecue. (Animal Kingdom). Because of the long shifts I was so scared of, I made more money than the typical cast member- major benefit to a girl who loves to shop.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my best friends- the people who loved and supported me throughout the seven months I spent away from home. Jio, the girl who I met in line on our very first day. Cory, the boy who judged me while I screamed bloody murder as we learned how to clean a fryer together- but then offered me a fry at lunch. Together, we formed a formidable unit- working together, spending the holidays together, and my favorite memory- seeing the Midwest princess herself, Chappell Roan together.
And while I can’t promise the same experience I had; I can promise that the Disney College Program is a program all Bucks students should consider. Like myself, many of the Bucks students have never lived away from home before- and some might continue to commute after their time at Bucks. The DCP provides the chance for a change in environment, a chance for newfound independence and self assurance. It provides the invaluable life lessons that come along with living with roommates, and with paying rent. If you find yourself searching for clarity, fun, or even just work experience, sunny Orlando may be just the place for you.