Monday, April 25, 2011

Exploring Orlando

While Disney gives its cast members a plethora of options when it comes to activities, the city of Orlando also boasts must-do experiences. Two of my favorite things to do only my days off were to either go to the beach or visit Universal Studios.  There are numerous beaches surrounding the Disney property, most of them only being around a 45 minute drive. It is nice to just escape the hustle and bustle of theme parks and relax for a day. Just laying there on the beach in the sun is a great way to de-stress from work and other pressures you may have. Towards the end of my program my friends and I made a lot of beach trips just to escape the stress that was surrounding our departure date.  
The second favorite thing on my to do list would have to be a visit to Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure. They are two conjoining theme parks. It is interesting to see how other parks not only operate but how they theme certain areas and attractions. The attractions and offering are more catered to young adults our age, so you will find yourself riding plenty more roller coasters than before. While in these parks you can find yourself channeling you inner Hulk, getting wrapped up in the Twister movie set or embarking on a Mummy expedition for yourself. These are not all the Orlando has to offer. With numerous dining options and outdoor activities, there is always something new to discover. Another theme park that you must check out is Sea World, don’t miss the Shamu show! Make sure to check out the link in the upper right hand corner of this page to get an insider’s look at Orlando!
My friends & I having fun at Universal Studios

Was That My Bus!?

While working for Disney will be the most magical time in your life, it is a job and it definitely comes with its share of hardships. The one aspect that you may feel would turn you away is being so far from home. Homesickness does play a factor, but not a major one. If your college is far from your home then you are used to the distance. If you are not used to the distance, give it time, your friends will quickly become your family. Also you will find yourself getting lost in all the fun you and your new friends are having. The ability to get into the parks for free, other offerings on Disney property and the city of Orlando create a vast play ground for you to explore in.
The major mode of transportation for the College Program is the Disney bus system. While it is 9 times out of 10, there is the occasional time when the bus is off schedule. Whether you missed the bus or it is late, no need to fear. Just simply wait for the next one, you work area (in my experience) will be forgiving, as long as it does not become a problem. It is possible to survive without a car while on your program. I made it my entire program without a car. At first it was hard because I was used to always having to option of driving myself wherever I needed to go. But consider it a stepping stone into adulthood and responsibility. During my 8 months on the College Program I managed to only be late to work once. The fact is, it eventually boils down to you, not your mode of transportation to determine if you are on time to work or not.

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Strike A Pose

Myself, Frozone, Jess & Mr. Incredible

The opportunities that can be taken advantage of during you time spent as a College Program participant are endless and once in a lifetime. You can go “play” in the parks anytime you want. There are also special backstage tours as well as exclusive activities given by your work area. By far the favorite activity of my friends and I was to go character hunting. We would spend our days off scouring the different parks in order to find those elusive characters. It becomes fun and almost a game, trying to beat your other friends while filling your autograph book. Definitely get one of those; they are essential for excellent character hunting.

Pluto & I

It is important to explore all the parks and take advantage of the free admission while you have it. Creating the magic for yourself is the most fun you can have. After days of making dreams and memories come true for the guests, take some time to create lost lasting memories for yourself. Sometimes striking up a conversation with a character can brighten up your day. You will find yourself having those ear to ear smiles, just like the guests you see every day at work.

Jonathan, Terron, Mickey, Myself & David
Most characters can be easily found. Also if you are in an unfamiliar park, simply ask a fellow cast member where and when you can find your favorite stars. If your assigned role is in a park, character meet and greet times will soon become common knowledge. It is one of the most popular questions for a guest to ask. The most popular question? What time is the 3 o’clock parade? Not kidding.

Ariel & I using our dinglehoppers
Jonathan, Terron, Ariel & I just chatting

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Roomies

Roommates are the first people you will meet when embarking on The Disney College Program. The number of people you can share an apartment with will range from 3 to 6. There are 3 different apartment complexes you can choose from, Vista Way, Chatham Square and Patterson Court. The price difference for these complexes is very small. It is only 10 dollars more to stay in the newest addition to the complexes, Patterson Court. Definitely go for this housing complex! This is where I resided in the happiest place on earth for my 8 month program. The apartments are beautiful and it boasts a spacious pool courtyard. A bonus of this apartment complex is that it is a quiet one. This is definite need after coming home from a long day of work out in the hot Florida Sun.

It is important for me to mention before going on that it is possible that you will not become best friends with your roommates, and that’s ok! I consider myself very blessed in the fact that my roommates and I bonded quickly and remained friends throughout our program. Some of my other friends were not so lucky. But no matter your predicament, you can always request a move. There is only a small fee that accompanies you new move. Again an open mind is essential for you to bring to the table. It was not always sunshine and rainbows for my roommates and I, we had to learn to live with each other. We came from all walks of life and different areas of the world. Gina is from New Jersey. Jess calls South Dakota home. Karen traveled all the way from Mexico City to participate in the program. Always talk about what you are feeling, never let anything build up. Also a tip, employ a simple chore chart when things start to get messy. This allows for everyone to be held accountable. In the end, the bond you form with you roommates can be one that will last a lifetime, long after your departure date.
Clockwise: Myself, Gina, Karen & Jess


It All Started With A Mouse...

"Dreams can come true, if you have the courage to pursue them."-Walt Disney
One day back in the fall of 2009, I was walking through the student union of my university and saw the poster for The Disney College Program. My life was changed forever. This program opened up my eyes to possibilities that I never saw for myself. I soon embarked on the Spring Advantage Program from January 2010 to August 2010. I work in the Magic Kingdom in the Quick Service Food & Beverage Division.
Wishes: A Magical Gathering of Disney Dreams
While working on your program you will interact with people not just from all over the United States but from all over the world. An important tip, always keep an open mind! During my program I worked with and made friends from many different countries, Spain, Brazil, Thailand and Australia, just to name a few. They may be from different parts of the world but they are experiencing the same things you are while on the College Program. If you allow yourself to be open to all of the new opportunities you will be having, those "work friends" will soon become lifelong friends. It is also key to keep this open mind when first starting out your job. The managers in your area will start you out with the easiest job. Once you show them what type of worker you are, they will move you on to new tasks. Always remain within the Disney guidelines but most importantly, bring your smile! If the guests see you having a great time, they will have a great experience. Have fun making the magic!