The Disney College Program is Back
For the first time since the beginning of the covid-19 pandemic, the Disney College Program is taking new applications! This paid program allows college students to work at Disney World and gain professional and educational experience. Plus, imagine putting the Walt Disney Company on your resume!
If you’re interested in the experience of a lifetime and want to know more, here are some common program questions and what you need to know.
Why should I do the program?
Through the Disney College Program, students can complete an internship and get on-the-job experience working with a world-renowned company. You’ll develop your leadership, communication, and teamwork skills and take classes on professional development. Also, if you hope to one day apply for a professional internship or job with the Disney Company, this is a great place to start.
Not to mention, you’d have free access to the parks and get to help create the magic of Disney World. Who wouldn’t want to live in the most magical place on Earth?
What kind of work would I do?
Students in the program can work anywhere at Disney World’s theme parks, water parks, and resorts. Obviously, Disney World is huge, so potential positions can vary. They include operations, entertainment, lodging, food and beverage, retail, and recreation. Disney asks that students be open and receptive to any role offered. For more information on positions, click here.
Participants could work the equivalent of a full-time position, so you have to be fully available Sunday through Saturday. This means being open to working nights (some roles require the occasional midnight shift), weekends, holidays, and overtime.
How long is the program?
The program duration is five to seven months, but there are opportunities to extend up to one year. If you’re selected for the program you will choose your arrival and departure date.
Is it paid?
Yes! It depends on the position, but every student makes at least $14 an hour. However, housing is not paid for, and costs between $175-$235 a week depending on the housing type. Participants also pay a $415-$435 program fee once they are accepted and any travel expenses.
What are the eligibility requirements?
To participate in the program, students must be currently enrolled at a college or university or have recently graduated, be at least 18 years old, have U.S. work authorization, and meet specific school requirements. For a full list of program criteria, visit Disney’s College Program website.
While the program is no longer accepting applications for this year, you can click here to receive program updates.
And if you’re still not sure if the program is right for you, that’s okay too! Meeting with your career coach to discuss your goals could be a great step to deciding whether or not the program would be beneficial to you. You can connect with your career coach here.
