There comes time during the Disney College Program when you get an email saying “Apply to Extend your Program!” If you have loved your time so far and don’t even want to fathom the idea of leaving Walt Disney World or Disneyland, then extending your program may be the best decision for you! Here are five reasons why you should definitely apply to extend your CP.
1. The chance to work in a new role
As part of the extension application, you can choose up to five roles that you want to be considered for, including staying in your current role. Although it has been found, especially in my case, that if you put same role/same location as one of your options, that is the one you will most likely be selected for. If you really want to try something new, then avoiding that option is the best for you! This is the opportunity to get that role you really wanted in the first place.
2. Experience the magic for a little longer
From more CP events, and networking opportunities, to backstage tours and that oh-so-magical discount, extending your program allows you to continue that cast member life for a little longer. Extending means that you get more chances to see your favorite parade, ride your favorite attraction, and enjoy more Mickey Premium Bars. And for fall program extenders, one of the most magical parts of extending is more time to use the holiday discount!
3. More time to knock things off that bucket list
Remember that bucket list you made months before your program began? Well, if you still have things you want to do, extending means five more months to complete the list! Just remember, the next five months are going to go by just as fast as the last four or six, so don’t waste any time.
4. Make more friends and create more memories
One sad thing about extending is having to say goodbye to those friends who decided not to extend. It’s going to be hard imagining work without them by your side. However, you get five more months to create more memories with those friends who are also extending, and make new friends with new college program participants.
5. Avoid reality for a little while longer
If you are not done with college, please think long and hard about extending your program. You do need to go back to school at some point, and possibly putting it off for five more months may not always be the best decision. On the other side, if you are done with college, then these five extra months will allow you to figure out exactly what you want to do as a career. Reach out to your leaders for some advice during the extension decision process. There’s a very good chance they were once a CP and were in your shoes.
As always, everyone has a different experience as a college program participant. It is a life changing experience and a dream come true for just about everyone. If you have loved your time so far, extend the magic for a little while longer!
