Disney magic can be found in even the smallest of places. While on the bus the other day I realized if you look close enough you can see just how similar the happiest place on earth is to the campus we call home for most of the year. Once you see it, you won’t be able to unsee it.

1. Street names

Every street has a name somehow related to the university. Around UConn, you can see streets with names such as Alumni Drive, Dog Lane, and Jonathan Way. Similarly, Disney has Small World Way, Royal Street as well as magical themed names for all of the sections of their parks such as Fantasyland, Adventureland, and Tomorrowland. These fun themed names make places seem a lot more fun.

2. Mascots

Jonathan XIII and Jonathan XIV (aka The Jonathan’s) are the first pups I think of when I think of a mascot/character. They’re like UConn’s own personal Mickey and Minnie (In this case, Mickey and Mickey). You can always find them at big campus events, hanging out on campus or making a new youtube video that melts everyone’s heart.

They are the faces of this university just like Mickey is the face of Disney. There is no Disney without everyone’s favorite mouse just like there is no UConn without our favorite Huskies.

3.The bus system

The bus system will always remind me of Disney shuttles that take guests from their hotel to one of their parks and then back again. Disney bus rides are exciting because everything in Disney is exciting right?? Unfortunately, campus buses aren’t as glamorous, taking us from our dorms to class and then back again. You get the idea though. It’s a whole mini world solely focused on traveling from destination to destination regardless of whether that destination is Magic Kingdom or just the student union.

4. All you can eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

As many of you know, Disney world offers meal plans for your stay at their park. What a coincidence. So does UConn! Although I think Disney food is 10x better than what can be found on any college campus, you have to admit, walking into a dining hall can pretty much feel like you’re on vacation. Buffet style anything makes you feel like you’re on vacation, let’s be real.

5. Special events

Disney always has some kind of special event going on whether it’s a parade, breakfast with one of the princesses or a fountain show. There’s always something to see, do and be apart of while in Disney World. Does that remind you of something? Oh yea! College! Just walking around campus on a random Wednesday afternoon you’ll probably find clubs selling food, special lectures by guests to the university and if you’re lucky you’ll even stumble upon free t-shirts. Who doesn’t love a free t-shirt, am I right?

6. Gampel

You can't tell me that you've looked at Gampel and haven't thought, "Oh wow, that looks like Spaceship Earth from Epcot!" No? Just me? Well, I bet you'll consider it now!

7. Gift Shop

Don’t forget your souvenir on the way out! Want a shirt, sweatshirt, hat, water bottle, shot glass or anything else imaginable with Disney printed on it? Go to one of the gift shops! Want the same thing but with UConn written on it instead? You’re in luck, the UConn Bookstore has just what you need!

It may be a far stretch to say Disney World and UConn are the same place but as far as I’m concerned they are pretty close. Start taking notes UConn! We need a lot more magic around here!