Magical Memoirs: My First Disney College Program Adventure
Introduction
Hello, friends! I'm delighted to share this exciting chapter of my life on the blog. As I eagerly await news about my potential acceptance into my dream program at Walt Disney World, where I could have the incredible opportunity to work with the company for a year, I thought now would be the perfect time to sit down and reminisce about my unforgettable experience during the Disney College Program as part of the Canadian Cultural Exchange during the summer of 2023.
When the idea of relocating to Florida for the program first crossed my mind, I faced fear and uncertainty. Despite my deep desire to embark on this adventure, doubts lingered. It wasn't until my mom suggested bringing along my best friend, my chihuahua Dug, that a newfound enthusiasm sparked within me. Without hesitation, I reached out to Disney support, and fortunately, the Disney Programs were incredibly accommodating to my needs. Dug was officially designated as my emotional support animal, allowing him to reside with me in Florida for emotional support.
With Disney's green light for Dug, I was ready to hit the road, accompanied by my furry companion and grandmother, who took on the role of navigator with a paper map in hand while I did the driving. To add a touch of Disney magic, my grandma even made orange shirts to match my car, named Nemo, perfectly fitting for a Disney cast member.
Upon our arrival in Florida, we made our way to Winter Garden and discovered my home for the next three months – Flamingo Crossings. The environment was incredibly welcoming, with resort-style pools, apartment-style rooms, a 24/7 gym, educational opportunities, fantastic support staff, and the chance to forge friendships with fellow participants. Dug and I even had the thrilling opportunity to say hello to Mickey on our first day!
These are just a few highlights from the beginning of my summer adventure, and I can't wait to share more with you below. Stay tuned for more magical moments and behind-the-scenes tales from my Disney College Program journey!
Main Street Magic
I vividly recall the anticipation I felt while eagerly awaiting details about my role with the company. When I accepted my position last year, securing a spot in the role of merchandise, the location remained a mystery. As a self-proclaimed Disney enthusiast, visiting the parks than the average person (yes, I might be a bit Disney insane), my mom and I eagerly speculated about the "ideal" store. Surprisingly, my wish to work at Magic Kingdom, particularly on Main Street, came true.
Upon embracing the merchandising role on Main Street, my imagination painted scenes of selling Disney merchandise, Pandora jewelry, and Dooney and Burke purses. Surprisingly, the Confectionary, the iconic candy store on Main Street, was also included in my role. Given my lower seniority as a college program student, most of my shifts found a home at the Confectionary—a place that quickly grew on me. The work went beyond the typical merchandise job, and there were nights when I clocked out at 4 am. However, the friendships forged and the memorable guest interactions made every moment worthwhile.
Magic Kingdom, especially the bustling Main Street entrance, provided a vibrant place for guest interactions at the Main Street Confectionary. Whether dancing in the store as fireworks illuminated the sky or waving to characters on parade floats, each moment exuded enchantment. Dressed in Main Street USA 1800s-styled attire—a yellow skirt, white apron, and bonnet—added an extra layer of magic to the experience.
One of the aspects I cherished most as a cast member was the opportunity to create "magical moments" for guests, even if it meant something as simple as giving them a Mickey Mouse sticker. The immeasurable joy it brought them became a heartwarming reward. Working at the Confectionary involved various tasks, from handling cash and taking orders to production and cleaning. Most importantly, it involved the art of making magic.
Amidst the enchanting chaos of Magic Kingdom, where each day felt like a page from a fairy tale, a particular magical incident stands out vividly in my memory. While strolling through the park, a little girl mistook me for a princess, sparking a heartwarming moment. Quick to notice her excitement, my friends gleefully pointed it out. In response, I turned around and knelt at her eye level, embracing the unexpected royal role upon me. A delightful conversation followed, brimming with childhood innocence and the magic unique to the Disney experience. We chatted about favourite characters, rides, and dreams, creating a bond that transcended the boundaries of reality.
However, the true highlight of my Disney journey was the bond formed with coworkers during late-night shifts and long days. Despite the challenges, we always found joy, and I often find myself reminiscing about those moments. These moments led me to apply in June 2023 for a return in 2024, just a month after initially joining the company in May 2023. Having recently completed the interview process for the 2024 program, I now patiently await news to see if I will be offered a program position once again!
Building Friendships and Networking
Before my journey to Florida last year, I found myself in isolation, navigating through a challenging period. However, those three months in Florida were transformative, pulling me out of my comfort zone and opening the door to embrace new experiences. Taking the risk of moving there led me to discover individuals who became integral to my life, and the connections forged during that period remain vital and cherished today.
Actions from that summer significantly boosted my confidence and propelled me deeper into my passions, particularly within the creative industries, with my blog as the starting point. A key motivation for my desire to return and work for the company is to continue building connections, both on a personal and professional level. A notable achievement from my summer experience was starting 2023 with less than 100 connections on LinkedIn and concluding it with over 600 – a trend I am eager to continue. Additionally, I felt compelled to create an Instagram account documenting my adventure in Disney last summer with Dug, called @Disneydugandem, which became a popular account with friends keeping up both in Canada and the States. This account gave me something to look forward to, as I knew it brought happiness to my friends, and they eagerly anticipated its updates. This growth serves as inspiration for both myself and others to pursue and develop their passions.
Being immersed in such a positive and supportive group during my time in Florida was a uniquely inspiring experience. The valuable work skills gained will undoubtedly serve me well in future job opportunities. Emphasizing maintaining a positive outlook, I've learned that you never know who might enter your life and make a lasting impact. The most significant lesson from the summer was a simple yet powerful truth: surround yourself with people who encourage you to be authentic and freely express your ideas. Without that, I wouldn’t be the confident, fun-loving person I am today, open to writing about my life, creating content, and following my career passions.
Exploration and Learning
During my summer working for the Walt Disney Company, I was presented with numerous opportunities for exploration. Perhaps the most frequently asked question I received was, "Do you get free park passes?" And yes, I did, an opportunity I never took for granted. The highlight of my summer was the park days, whether celebrating friends' birthdays, hopping on a boarding queue just before a shift, or witnessing our friends create magic on our day off. Not a single day was wasted, and my friends and I made the most of every moment.
With Dug by my side, I seized the chance to attend Disney Programs' events, allowing him to meet beloved characters like Mickey, Minnie, and Donald. When we needed a break from our Disney bubble, my friends and I often ventured off to the beach – my favourite was Cocoa. If I do go back, I look forward to continuing to share my experiences through blogging about these day trips, especially if I move there for a year!
Disney Programs also provided opportunities for professional development, including courses like the hospitality course, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and I even graduated with my “Mouseters.” Exploring the ins and outs of Disney's hospitality and delving into its history, inspired by Walt Disney himself, was enlightening. I firmly believe that you get out what you put into something. As I had the opportunity to live in Florida and work as a cast member, I am eager to take on these experiences to grow my career within the company further.
Now, juggling work at Disney, pet care, and life in Florida was undeniably challenging, but it all came down to finding balance. My experiences in the summer and Disney's management taught me valuable lessons in time management that I will carry with me into the future. My Disney journey was not just a job but a transformative experience that shaped me personally and professionally, leaving me eager to continue this exciting chapter.
The Unfortunate Goodbye to Dug
August 1, 2023, marked a challenging day for me. It was the day I had to say goodbye to my best friend, Dug, creating a full-circle moment that encapsulated the essence of the entire summer. Losing Dug prompted deep reflection on the past three months and my profound gratitude for having him by my side. He served as my catalyst for stepping out of my comfort zone and acted as my social icebreaker, enabling me to connect with others in ways I never thought possible.
As August unfolded, I faced the impending conclusion of my program and the daunting prospect of returning to Canada while navigating the process of transferring universities. The challenges were overwhelming, but Dug instilled the confidence to confront these obstacles head-on. After a few days of mourning Dug's loss, with the unwavering support of those who had followed along with @Disneydugandem, I found the strength to complete the summer for Dug and me.
Dug left me with invaluable lessons: his trust in me as we ventured to a new country, his unwavering excitement and support in meeting new people, and his continuous love and support when I felt lost and alone. Though he is not physically present with me today, I still sense his constant energy watching over me. Right now, he is basking in the sun in Florida, and the anticipation of reuniting with him brings me joy and comfort.
In conclusion, this past summer, though filled with challenges and goodbyes, has left an indelible mark on my heart. It was a journey of self-discovery, growth, and the enduring bond I share with a tiny Chihuahua named Dug. As I embark on the next chapter, I carry the lessons learned and the memories made, with the unwavering belief that Dug's spirit will continue to inspire and guide me wherever life may lead.
Unexpected Blessings
As I settled back home in Canada, I knew the right canine companion would eventually come into my life, so I began researching. Applying to two places with lengthy waiting lists, I eagerly awaited responses. Fortunately, I heard back from a Chihuahua breeder in Paris, Ontario. She invited me for a visit, and to my delight, there was a recent litter of 5 healthy long-haired Chihuahuas! When I looked at Moose, I knew he was the one. Each pup was born on Canada Day, July 1st, and named after a Canadian animal, but I couldn't change Moose's name – he simply is just a moose.
The breeder was excellent, and we visited Moose almost weekly until he was ready to come home with me in the fall. Since his arrival, Moose has brought an incredible light into my life and introduced a sense of routine. Caring for him has given me a newfound purpose, and I'm eagerly anticipating the many years of growth and memories we'll share. It's particularly fitting that I may have the chance to represent Canada in Walt Disney World, and even more coincidentally, Moose's birthday aligns with Canada's, and his name is Moose!
Excitement fills the air as we embark on our next adventures, and I envision warm breezes, palm trees, and a sprinkle of pixie dust along the way. Moose and I are ready for the enchanting journey that lies ahead. My fingers crossed!
Conclusion
In retrospect, this summer unfolded as a tapestry of enchantment, growth, and unforeseen blessings. From the initial uncertainties of relocating alongside my faithful companion, Dug, to the unforgettable moments on Main Street, the journey seamlessly wove a magical narrative. The Confectionary became not just a workplace but a realm of late-night shifts, extraordinary guest interactions, and enduring friendships. The profound impact of this Disney chapter prompted an immediate application for the 2024 program, emphasizing its transformative effect on my life.
Beyond the enchantment of the park, forging friendships and networking turned this adventure into a catalyst for newfound confidence and passion for exploration. The connections made in Florida served as a driving force for both personal and professional growth. Disney Programs enriched my summer with invaluable experiences and insights. The lessons acquired during this transformative journey and working for the Walt Disney Company have become guiding principles for my future.
The bittersweet farewell to Dug marked the conclusion of a challenging chapter, yet his spirit remains a constant source of inspiration as I embrace new challenges. Unexpectedly, Moose, the furry blessing, entered my life, bringing joy, routine, and the potential to represent Canada in Walt Disney World. In summary, this summer was a series of challenges, farewells, and unexpected blessings, leaving an indelible mark on my heart. Stepping into the next chapter with Moose by my side, I carry the lessons learned, the friendships formed, and the enduring magic of Disney. Here's to the captivating adventures, growth, and enchanting journey ahead, with Moose as my companion, ready for warm breezes, palm trees, and a sprinkle of pixie dust.
