DCP: Answering your Questions!

As we come to the end of the blog, I always want to say “see ya real soon” and never goodbye. I also want to make sure no one leaves without their question answered! So I took to my social media to find out what you wanted to know, and these are what you told me!

What was the DCP like?

This answer varies based on who you ask, but ill tell you all about mine! Since I wanted to do the program since I was a kid, it was a dream come true. Working in my favorite place everyday, experiencing and creating magic, making connections with guests and other cast members; it was all a dream. It goes by like a blink of an eye, and I couldn’t tell you how much I learned from it. I always thought of it like being in a kids group on a cruise ship: connecting with the same, yet different, people everyday, and exploring the beautiful boat, with endless fun. That’s my personal opinion!

How do you get a certain position or does Disney decide?

My program was slightly different from the post-COVID programs, as I’ve mentioned before with the application and interview process. But, ultimately, it is the company's decision to put you where they need you, and where they see you fit. During my program, we were able to put preferences, but post-COVID, it's completely up to the recruiters. And maybe that’s just the fun of it!

Do you get to pick where you work in the parks?

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Again, ultimately, no. Disney puts you where they see you fit, and where they need you. However, medical conditions and personal implications could make this change, but that’s still with communication through the company. Although, I have mentioned before that you can pick up shifts throughout different locations, said your role allows it! It’s a great way to put yourself outside your comfort zone and learn something new!

How much do you work?

Disney College Program participants are bottom of the totem pole, so we get picked over hours. However, as internship requirements are, we are to work about 15-20 scheduled hours a week minimum. Now this could be dependent on role, location, and requested time off, but we are there to work! It’s also a normal job, so the whole trade/pickup shifts thing is still available! So in the end, it’s up to you!

How long is the program?

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Most programs are semester long internships, ranging from 4-6 months. Disney has their programs organized by season, so here’s the rundown: Spring (January-May/June), Spring advantage (January-July/August), Summer Alumni (May-August), Fall (August-January), Fall advantage (May-January).

There’s also the option to extend your DCP, which is an offer you must be accepted for. This could give you a couple more months, to the chance to finish another program!

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How far do you live from the Parks?

The current, and only, DCP housing complex (Flamingo Crossings Village), is about 8 miles from the Magic Kingdom (about a 15 minute drive). From there, it’s only about 10 minutes between each park, if you were driving. But there’s also busses and other modes of transportation that may vary in times. You also have the option to live off DCP housing, which would be up to your discretion on how far you want to live from the parks!

I hope I was able to answer some of your top asked questions! Don’t be afraid to shoot me a message on any of my socials @sawyersgotadream! Thanks so much for following the blog, and I'll see ya real soon!