When participating in the Disney College Program, everyone has a bucket list of things they want to complete. However, after being in the program for 6 months, I am basically an expert and I have created the ultimate bucket list for your program.
1. Make reservations at any and all full-service dinning locations.
Take full advantage of that discount. You may spend a lot of money on food during your program, but it's worth it. Prime Time 60's Cafe is DELICIOUS! Especially if you're missing home cooking. Try the peanut butter and jelly milkshake - just trust me.
2. Take advantage of how bomb your Instagram will be.
Who cares if you post everyday? This is the best place to post your favorite pictures and document your adventures. You'll love looking through your profile once you're home and missing Disney. Plus, it's a good way for your parents to keep up with you.
3. Sign up for Magic-Backstage events.
One of the coolest things I got to do during my program was tour backstage at Fanstasmic! at Hollywood Studios. I learned all kinds of cool facts about the show (the dragons name is Vivian by the way) and walk on stage, on the ferry boat, everything. It was amazing.
4. Watch the sunrise at the beach.
One of the beautiful things about living in Orlando, is that you have beaches all around you. I mean you have to drive for an hour or two, but it's so worth it. Make sure you go with a couple of your closest friends too. I went with with three other friends and it's one of my favorite memories of my program. Being together that early and watching the day begin is something you can't forget.
5. Buy a Universal pass.
Yes, I know it's expensive. I'm still paying mine off, but some days you want to get outside of that Disney bubble. Universal has so many cool rides. It's something you should definitely experience, and if you're a Harry Potter fan you need a pass - its a necessity.
6. Watch all the shows at the parks.
Some people are all about the rides at Disney, but don't make that mistake. Disney has shows at every park. GO TO THEM. Especially Finding Nemo the Musical. Not to be biased because it's my personal favorite, but it's the best. I went to the show at least 30 times. It was so bad that the actors would recognize me and my friend because we went that often.
7. Close Magic Kingdom and take pictures on empty Main Street.
Seeing Magic Kingdom basically empty is about as magical as it gets. It's the best time to notice all the small details that Walt put into the park. Take tons of pictures during this time too. It's the only time you can take pictures with the castle and not be photobombed by 600 families. Stay until they kick you out. Okay, maybe not physically kick you out, but stay until you feel like you're about to get kicked out.
8. Find a friend who can get you Fastpasses.
Magical Moments are bomb. I feel like I don't even have to explain myself on this one. FREE FASTPASSES PEOPLE.
9. Go to the infamous "Purple Wall".
The "Purple Wall" is located in Magic Kingdom, to the right as soon as you get off the bridge taking you into Tomorrowland. I didn't understand the hype until I got there and started to take pictures. Literally the best lighting for pictures I've ever seen. Truly magical.
10. Spend every possible second with your friends.
This is the most important one. You'll miss the friends you make during your program more than anything else. The people you work with will become you're best friends. Hang out with them before work, go to work together, then after work take trips to McDonald's or iHop. You'll miss out on some sleep, but it's better than missing out on the memories.
