Almost every major at UCF requires an internship. Of course, there are many options we have to choose from. But let’s be honest, none of them really sound all that fun. But I have and internship opportunity filled with fun as well as magic. Sounds good, right?
Every time I hear the word “Disney” my ears perk up a bit. You should have seen them whenever I heard about the Disney College Program; you would have thought I was Dumbo. Not many people are as big of a Disney freak as I am, but nonetheless, the Disney College program is still fun and full of experience as well as opportunities for those who may not be as crazy about Disney.
The Disney College Program is a paid internship program that provides housing as well as jobs in all different fields. When you’re not working in the parks, you’re able to take classes on site to keep you busy on your days off – so you can take care of an internship while still getting class credits completed. Most of the classes they offer are similar to the marketing classes that are given here at UCF. Taking classes during an internship does not sound very appealing, but what makes these classes different is that you can directly see how what you are learning relates to business. Everyone always has their days where we are sitting in our classes wondering, “When I am ever going to need this? Why do I care?” But these classes are different; they put you right in an example of how to use your skills.
The application process is as simple as counting all seven of the dwarfs. There is an online application with fairly simple questions that takes about an hour to complete. Then, if your online application is accepted, you are set up with a phone interview with one of the Disney representatives. Depending on how that goes, you will soon find out if you are accepted into the program. It’s up to you to accept or decline the position. So, good luck!
So you got accepted to the program; what kind of jobs should you expect? Well, as with any job, there are parts that are not so fun. Jobs such as custodial or quick-service food and beverage are at the bottom of everybody’s list, for obvious reasons. Cleaning up bathrooms at a theme park=totally disgusting. But on the other hand, there are the exciting jobs, the main reasons to do the DCP. These include jobs such as attractions or even being a vacation planner. I highly recommend visiting the program website to get a better idea of what the roles are, and if they do not look appealing to you, then this internship really isn’t for you. But for me, and I’m sure some others, ever since I was a kid visiting Disney I have wanted to be a part of the magic. Disney provides an atmosphere where it is hard to be unhappy. Well, except for when there is a little kid screaming next to you because they want a Mickey-shaped ice cream cone.
Like I said before, the Disney College Program isn’t for everyone, but not everything is. This program is a really great experience in multiple different ways. Being around Disney magic is always beneficial and through this program it opens many doors for moving up with the Disney Company, or any company, for that matter. And having Disney only about 40 minutes from campus, you are still able to stay connected with the school and with your friends. So once you explore all of your other options, I hope that you find the Disney College Program as exciting as I do. After all, Disney is the happiest place on earth.