To this day, my Spring 2017 Disney College Program was the most fun I've ever had in my entire life. The DCP is a truly unique experience that is like no other internship program. Every day there is something new to do and see. Although six months seems like a long time, it is truly no time at all when it comes to how many things Disney has to offer. Here are some things that you HAVE to do during your program.
1. Go to the housing events
Free food, music, characters, prizes, photo booth and did I mention free food? Housing events were SO much fun. Aside from the perk of the really good *free* food, there was a lot to do to keep everyone entertained. Luckily I was able to attend all of the housing events. Each event is uniquely themed which makes each one different. My favorite housing event was definitely the "Welcome to the Island Diversity Event". From the Hawaiian themed food to meeting Moana, my roommates and I had a lot of fun.
2. Take advantage of the pools
Waking up early is not the most enjoyable experience in the world, but it was worth it to be able to sit by the pool at Chatham Square almost every morning. There is truly nothing better than reading a book poolside while basking in the sun. Sitting by the pool was a relaxing way to start my day that helped me stay sane during the program. During the DCP you are constantly surrounded by people, taking time for yourself is essential.
3. Go to the parks by yourself
It may seem awkward at first, but nothing is better than eating some dole whip and sitting on the Hub grass in Magic Kingdom. People are so busy trying to get around the park and be on time for their next FastPass. You'll see a lot of interesting people while people watching. The days when I went to the park by myself really stick out to me when I think about my program. It's so fun to go to the parks with friends but it is also a lot of fun to wander and notice new details of the parks.
4. Morning yoga in the park
This event does not take place often so if you get the chance to go, it is definitely worth the 3:00 a.m. wake-up call. Luckily, morning yoga in Magic Kingdom took place on the last day of our program and I could truly not think of a better way to close out my Disney journey. Although waking up so early wasn't pleasant, being in the parks with no guests and doing yoga while the sun rises will be an experience I will never forget. Magic Kingdom is usually so busy and chaotic and getting the chance to see it be a serene environment is an experience that you have to take advantage of as a Cast Member.
5. Get breakfast at a resort
Food is expensive at Disney, that's a fact. However, a lot of the resorts offer discounts at their quick service and some table service restaurants. As a Cast Member, our discounts for food can range from 20%-40% at some places. Breakfast is usually the cheapest at resorts, so breakfast at a resort is a great way to try new food and wander the resorts. In particular, Tonga Toast, french toast stuffed with bananas and rolled in cinnamon sugar, at the Polynesian Resort is ESSENTIAL. Tonga Toast will put every other breakfast food to shame.
6. Character Dining
As stated, food at Disney is expensive. Table service restaurants are even more expensive. However, I do recommend going to at least two character dining experiences during your DCP. As expensive as Disney food is, it's amazing. After yoga at the Magic Kingdom, some of my roommates and I went to Garden Grille in Epcot. During this dining experience, you meet Mickey, Pluto, and Chip and Dale. Dale was really hungry because he came to sit with us at our table! Funny experiences like these were priceless.
7. Take advantage of all Cast Member only experiences that you can
From Cast Member previews of new attractions, discounts, and events, Disney always has something going on for Cast Members. During my program, my biggest regret was not requesting time off, in the beginning, to visit Disneyland or go on a Disney Cruise. As a Walt Disney World Cast Member, you also get free admission to Disneyland and steeply discounted cruises. If you can get the time off, save your money and take advantage of these perks.
The Disney College Program is an experience you will never forget. These are just some experiences that stuck out to me during my program. Although the list of must-dos is endless, I narrowed the list to the essentials. Make sure you take advantage of everything Disney has to offer because before you know it you'll be turning in your blue I.D. and your main gate will be deactivated.
