Disney College Program Tips

It’s crazy to think I’ve been out of the DCP for four years. It feels like just yesterday I packed into a little Honda with my mom and sister, driving toward my new life at Disney. Now I’m just a full-blown Disney adult who recently moved out of Florida after five years.

Here are some of my tips, looking back on my Disney College Program experience:

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Balance your work and personal life.

The schedules can be intense, and it’s easy to feel like your entire life revolves around your role. I was clocking in at 6 am some days and leaving close to 11 pm the same day. There is no hiding some of the wild hours you may work. Give yourself permission to say no to picking up extra shifts when you’re drained. Make plans outside of work, whether that’s grabbing food with friends, exploring resorts, or just having a quiet night in. (I loved  good resort hop day)  Creating that balance is what keeps the experience sustainable instead of overwhelming.

Actually go to the parks.

It sounds obvious, but a lot of people don’t take advantage of this as much as they should. After a long shift, it can feel easier to just go home but even a quick visit can reset your mood. Watch a show, grab a snack, or just walk around and take it all in. I loved bringing a book and reading on the hub grass infront of the castle. You’re in a position that most people only dream about, so let yourself enjoy it beyond just working in it. 

Don’t compare your experience to others.

It’s really easy to feel like everyone else is having a “better” program, better role, better location, better friend group. Social media makes this even worse. But everyone’s experience is different, and comparison will just take away from your own. Focus on what you want to get out of it. Being in Outdoor Vending, it was perceived as a lesser role. But I made the most incredible friends whom I still talk to, to this day. It was what we called trauma bonding but in the best way. 

Budget Wisely.

Disney's expensive, we all know this. t’s tempting to spend constantly (merch, food, nights out), especially since you’re surrounded by it 24/7. But the pay isn’t always as much as people expect, and it adds up quickly. Having even a loose budget helps you avoid stress later in the program. 

Get enough sleep.

This might be the most underrated tip. Between early mornings, late nights, and trying to maintain a social life, sleep is usually the first thing people sacrifice and it catches up to you fast. Protect your rest as much as you can. You’ll feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally, and it will make your shifts and your days off so much more enjoyable.

Prioritize your mental health.

The program can be incredible, but it can also be a lot. Being away from home, dealing with demanding guests, and adjusting to a new environment isn’t always easy especially if you are still taking classes like I was. Check in with yourself regularly. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a break, talk to someone you trust, or use any resources available to you. Setting boundaries and taking care of your mental health doesn’t make you weak, it makes you capable of actually enjoying the experience.

Enjoy your time.

It really does go by faster than you expect. I blinked my eye and it was over. It’s easy to get caught up in small frustrations or feel like you have more time than you actually do. Try to be present. Say yes to opportunities, take pictures, make spontaneous plans, and create memories with the people you meet. I wished I said yes more, honestly. Because before you know it your friends are moving back to where they came from rather if its Chicago or LA and then you have a whole country separating your new friendships instead of a dorm. When it’s over, those are the moments you’ll remember, not the stressful shifts or minor inconveniences.

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Remember to smile. Youre at the most magical place on earth!