Photo courtesy: Alexander Lau.
Any KapCC students interested in the Disney College Program should quickly inquire with fellow student Alexander Lau, 21, our school representative for the program,or online.
The deadline, in October, is approaching quickly. The Disney College Program is an internship open to all college students. Unlike most programs, this internship is open to all majors and does not have a GPA requirement. Students must be at least 18 years old or older, and going to school either full or part-time.
This internship offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and earn money while working in Walt Disney World or Disneyland.
Interested students must apply online and participate in a phone interview. The program offers an array of job options for chosen interns. Some interns may be asked to work in retail, food service, park maintenance and more. Once accepted, a student is allowed to choose which tasks they are most interested in, and which park they are want to work in.
The typical duration of the program is four to six months. If a student shows promise and dedication the program might offer a student an extension or even a job as a regular employee. Since the program takes place away from home, full-furnished housing is provided to all interns.
The apartments are located in a small business district with grocery stores and restaurants within walking distance. Erica Tso, fellow student and Disney College Program participant ,explained that one of the best experiences she had during the internship was living in an apartment with four other girls.
Along with housing, interns are offered free educational classes. Workshops include, resume building and marketing. Business and Hospitality majors at KapCC may receive up to nine class credits for participating in the program.
This internship strives to create a magical experience for both park goers and employees. According to Tso, Disney uses special lingo to give emphasis to the parks entertainment theme.
“That is why employees are called cast members, back of the house and front of the house are called back stage and on stage,” Tso said. “We have attractions, not rides, and we don’t have uniforms, we have costumes.”
Along with making money, meeting new friends and having fun, this program offers many opportunities to each participant.
“It’s a very good way to learn life skills, because it applies everywhere…” Lau said.
Regardless of major, partaking in the program exposes interns to numerous networks and connections. Lau explains that his roommates were studying media arts and animation. Many of them were able to meet with the leaders, and workers of Disney Engineers. They also had the opportunity to get involved with companies like Pixar and Marvel.
The Disney College Program website describes the internship as a “unique program” that allows participants to network with leaders, building transferable skills like guest service and effective communication, as well as take part in personal and career development classes.
The site explains the program further: “Discover new worlds and create long-lasting memories. Because here, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity will change your life forever.”
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