Many may go as far as calling it an experience of a lifetime, or life-changing; no matter your view on the matter, there are always new things to learn around each and every corner. Since you've made it this far you are probably considering the Disney College Program as a furthering opportunity, waiting upon your status after an interview, or just waiting for your arrival date right around the river bend!
In the meantime, here are a few pieces of information for prospective Disney College Program participants:
Housing ~
- There are four college program housing complexes: Vista Way, Chatham Manor, Patterson Court, and the Commons. Each participant receives access to the DORMS system prior to their arrival date to preference their roommates and living situation(s). Selections vary upon rent, rooms, and housing complex.
- Check-in takes place in Vista Way, handling all housing situations, and work location information along with a run-through prior to Casting. A mandatory housing meeting taking place in The Commons (Wednesday), covering basic expectations of code and conduct for College Program participants during their program.
- All housing apartments are subject to random search by security, with the recent addition of random inspections, where possible fines may be incurred.
- In relation, the TRANSTAR busing system is based in the Vista Way housing complex which may be accessed with any housing complex identification.
Basics ~
- Plan on arriving prior (Sunday) to check-in day for an opportunity to get to meet everyone in person. With the new DORMS system in place, roommates are no longer required to check-in together.
- After check-in at Vista Way drive to Casting (if possible) for fingerprinting and paperwork to avoid new arrival bus crowds.
- When arriving for the first time at your apartment, check on all aspects of the apartment for upkeep, noting any visible wear/tear & damages along with any missing flatware. Call the complex housing to put in a work order immediately, as you may be subsequently charged otherwise. Check all surrounding decks and hallways for trash, including beer/wine bottles, especially for those in wellness housing.
- All College Program participants will receive their Cast ID on their day of Traditions (Thursday) allowing them to access the parks freely, discounts, in addition to their work necessities. In addition, new RFID Cast Member and Guest passes will be received via mail within two weeks for park admission.
- For roles involving many standing hours, invest in insoles for shoes. For those receiving complimentary shoes, break them in prior to working. Always be prepared for the worst, rain or shine in Florida.
- Start off on the right foot, documenting all your hours in some form to verify your pay. This becomes invaluable during slow season when you've got very little spending money, and every penny does count.
More than anything, enjoy your experience and every moment you receive. Get to know your area, along with the people that create the atmosphere to make it a wonderfully memorable time. Many have been dreaming for a moment such as this, and you've received an opportunity of a lifetime, so make it count.
Feel free to add any additional questions or comments regarding future endeavors in the Disney College Program, and have a Magical Day!
