The Disney College Program: A Comprehensive Look at the Pros and Cons

The Disney College Program (DCP) is a unique internship opportunity that allows college students and recent graduates to work at Disney World or Disneyland, gaining valuable experience and potentially earning college credit. It offers a blend of on-the-job training, networking opportunities, and the chance to live and work in the "Most Magical Place on Earth." However, like any significant decision, the DCP has both advantages and disadvantages that prospective participants should carefully consider.

What is the Disney College Program?

The Disney College Program is a paid internship that provides students and recent college graduates with experience in various fields while offering seminars, classes, and shadowing opportunities. Participants come from all over the world, creating a diverse living and working environment.

The program's origins date back to 1980 when Disney recruiters visited universities like the University of Alabama, the University of North Carolina, and the University of Georgia, signing up approximately 250 students. Officially launched in 1981 as "The Magic Kingdom College Program," it has since expanded to include students from numerous universities.

Roles and Responsibilities

Participants in the DCP are assigned entry-level jobs across various departments. These roles are based on Disney's needs and not necessarily on an applicant's field of study, prior work history, or qualifications. Some common roles include:

Attractions: Working as a Host/Hostess at a specific attraction or group of attractions.
Merchandise: Working at an indoor or outdoor retail store or vending location.
Food & Beverage: Serving in front-of-house roles (Host/Greeter/Seater/Cashier) or back-of-house roles (kitchen/food service) in quick-service or sit-down dining locations.
Custodial: Maintaining cleanliness and interacting with guests in the parks. Despite initial disappointment, many participants find this role enjoyable due to its freedom and guest interaction.
Houseperson: Assisting Housekeepers, stocking carts with linens and supplies, performing custodial duties in resort areas, and delivering items to guest rooms.

Most roles require extensive walking and standing, often in hot conditions. Disney prioritizes Cast Member health and safety, but participants should be prepared for physically demanding work.

Read also: College Programs at Disney

The Good: Pros of the Disney College Program

Resume Enhancement: The Disney College Program is a known resume enhancer. Having it on a resume can lead to job offers after college due to the skills and work ethic developed.
Life-Changing Experience: Participating in the DCP can be a life-changing experience, leading to personal growth through interactions with people from around the world.
Networking Opportunities: The program provides numerous networking opportunities and special classes/events that participants can engage in.
Potential for Future Employment: Some participants secure full-time jobs with Disney after completing the program, using it as a stepping stone to advance within the company.
Valuable Skills Development: The DCP helps participants develop essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, leadership, time management, teamwork, and guest service.
Gaining On-the-Job Experience: Participants gain practical, real-world work experience in a professional environment.
Disney Perks: Participants receive a complimentary ticket that allows access into all the Disney parks for free, with some blockout dates and park pass reservations required. They will also get complimentary tickets for every 150 hours worked.
Cast Member Events: As a CP, participants have access to events thrown exclusively for Cast Members.
Insight into the Disney World Experience: Participants get to see Disney World from an inside perspective and find out some pretty juicy details behind favorite rides and attractions.
Cultural and Social Growth: The social and cultural shock experienced during the program can be highly beneficial, allowing participants to learn and grow personally.
Personal Growth: Participants learn how to live responsibly and budget their money, gaining valuable life experience.

The Bad: Cons of the Disney College Program

Demanding Work Schedule: The work schedule can be demanding, with some participants working 50+ hours per week.
Pay: Pay at Disney is generally not high. As a CP, participants make a few dollars less than part and full-time Cast Members. If staying in Disney-provided housing, rent will be automatically deducted from taxes.
Limited Schedule Flexibility: Participants must provide full-time availability, which can make it challenging to attend college classes simultaneously.
Holiday Work: Depending on the program dates, participants may have to work over the holidays, away from family.
Strict Rules and Codes: Disney has strict rules regarding culture, demeanor, and attire to optimize the guest experience.
Transportation Issues: Relying on Cast Member transportation can be problematic, as buses are often late and crowded.
Potential for Homesickness and Loneliness: Participants may experience homesickness, loneliness, and the challenges of being away from their usual support systems.

The Weird: Unique Aspects of the DCP

Roommate Assignments: Participants can link with only one person before arriving at DCP housing, leaving the other roommates to be assigned randomly.
Strict Photo and Costume Rules: There are many rules regarding taking photos backstage, wearing costumes outside the parks with name tags, and getting dressed at Disney World hotels before work.
High Expectations vs. Reality: Participants may start with high expectations of a magical experience, but they will still encounter bad days, upset guests, and challenging situations.

Combining the DCP with College

Finishing College After the Program: Many participants choose to finish their college degrees after completing the DCP.
Attending College During the Program: It is challenging to attend college full-time while participating in the DCP due to the demanding work schedule. However, taking a couple of online classes might be manageable. UCF and Valencia CC offer many online classes that accommodate students working at Disney.
College Credit: Many schools offer internship and/or class credit for completing the program. It is important to ensure that your college and major will support your decision to take a gap semester or year.

Housing

Disney-Provided Housing: Disney offers select housing for CP students at a cost. Flamingo Crossings Village apartments are equipped with full kitchens.
Roommate Matching: Participants can request to be with one other applicant, but matching is not guaranteed. Apartment sizes vary from 2-8 people.
Parking: Participants are welcome to bring a vehicle, but a parking permit is required and not guaranteed. Residents of Flamingo Crossings can use Disney transportation for free.

Health Insurance

Disney does not provide health benefits for CP students. It is important to consider health insurance options. Some participants are added back onto their parents' health insurance plans, while others purchase a separate major medical plan.

Disney University Classes

Disney offers optional classes for CP students through Disney University. These classes may or may not be accepted for college credit by the participant's school.

Application Process

Online Application: The first step is to complete an online application.
Web-Based Interview: Successful applicants will be invited to a web-based interview.
Telephone Interview: The final stage involves a telephone interview.

Applicants are also asked to express interest in specific areas of the park and rate roles by preference. It can be beneficial to select many different roles to increase the chances of acceptance.

Turning Down an Offer

Applicants can turn down an offer if it is not aligned with their interests without any repercussions.

Is the Disney College Program Right for You?

The Disney College Program offers a unique blend of professional development, personal growth, and the chance to immerse oneself in the Disney culture. However, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering factors such as career goals, academic commitments, financial implications, and personal preferences.

For students like the advertising/marketing and photography major with a Spanish minor, the DCP could offer valuable guest interaction experience, networking opportunities, and a chance to develop transferable skills applicable to any field. Even if the assigned role isn't directly related to her major, the experience can still enhance her resume and open doors to future opportunities.

Ultimately, the decision to participate in the Disney College Program is a personal one. By carefully evaluating the potential benefits and challenges, prospective participants can make an informed choice that aligns with their individual goals and aspirations.

Read also: Disney Internship Details

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