This past week marked my two year anniversary of getting accepted into the Disney College Program. For those of you who may not know, the DCP is a great internship opportunity where you can work at the Disney theme parks, live with other cast members, actually get paid, and get into Disney free on your time off. It's a lot of hard work, of course, late nights, aggravating guests, and tiring days.
Post Disney Depression kind of hit me like a train this week. I was lucky enough to do the program at Walt Disney World in 2015 and again in Disneyland this past summer. That's a lot of Disney, then you leave and that's it. You're done. That was hard for me to grasp, the concept of not being a "cast member" is honestly awful. After making magic for so many guests and families, I go back to college and just start shenanigans with my friends. It is such a stark difference in lifestyles.
So here are a few things you can do when the Disney blues hit ya real good.
1. Put on a Disney Movie.
This week I've watched at least three, and even though you would think it wouldn't help, it really does! It reminds you of the magic you were a part of and gives you a taste of it even when you're not home.
2. Listen to Disney Park music.
I'm not talking songs from movies, there are actual sites dedicated to having all music from the parks, whether it be on attractions, queues, or just random parts of the area. It absolutely takes you back and can be super fulfilling as a minor Disney fix. (soundsofdisneyland.com is a GREAT one. I'm listening to it right now.)
3. Visit your local Disney Store!
Ah, yes, these fossils. It's as if you're going back in time when you step into one of these stores now. They're few and far between, but luckily I have one 20 minutes from me!! I wish I was kidding when I said I teared up walking in the other day; immediately getting engulfed in all things Disney can be extremely emotional when you're as unstable as me. (Kidding, not really.)
4. Literally, go to a Disney Park.
Listen, I know that's a lot of money. I get it. But your need to be fueled with Disney happiness is not going to go away until you actually get yourself back to the park. Nothing is stranger than walking around the place you used to work at, seeing old friends, etc., but you'll feel right at home.
5. Do some Disney crafts.
Maybe this is the ~sorority~ girl in me, but crafting is so satisfying and therapeutic. Working on Disney crafts can bring back all those fond memories, plus you'll get some great stuff to hang in your room!
