THIS is What They Don't Tell You About the Disney College Program

DCP applications have just dropped and I wanted to share some things that I wish I knew before heading off to my program. These are the things I felt were most important to know, and some of these things are very vulnerable parts of my experience. I hope this helps the next wave of applicants be more informed about the realistic side to the Disney College Program.
DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT SPEAK FO THE BRAND OR THE COMPANY THIS VIDEO IS SOLELY FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES.
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[@Jaelynne17]

I did the DCP back in 2001. It was fun, but I had one major issue with it and it still affects my decision to visit Disney to this day. Back then, we made $6.50 an hour. Out of that $6.50, Disney only paid the CP employees $.50 cents an hour. The rest was government subsidy because it was an internship (or whatever they called it to take advantage of this loophole). On top of that, each person has to pay $67.00 per week to live in the apartments that the CP people were required to live in…. Guess who those were owned by? Disney!! So, not only was Disney basically getting free labor from all of the college kids they would hire, but they were also making money off of us since we had to pay to live in Disney housing. Not to mention that most of us didn’t have cars to get us off the property, so we also had to Spend our money on Disney stores, etc. we essentially worked for free while Disney made money off of the government. It was such a disgusting practice that I ended up self terminating after 2 months.

[@gloria-pk2pk]

I appreciate your honesty. Most videos are all flowers and fluff, and I felt like you were more honest about the hard stuff because that’s the most important thing.

[@celestemancia5921]

Thank you so much for making this video! I recently got accepted into the program and leaving in only 4 months! I appreciate it.

[@desiregarza6926]

Congrats! I’m so glad I could help!

[@kyradenisealston2796]

Congrats. I’ve been on the program for a week and a lot of this I’ve already experienced.

[@chefisboss1]

I’m really curious, not being an asshole, but Do guys have a different experience? I had zero drama there. I had minimal money and no car and i had a great time. The shuttles were so handy. Went to the beach. Wondered all over the parks and Orlando. Grew so much as a person. Had all the friend time All the friends i needed and longed for and also plenty of alone time to myself. The experience there was amazing. I learned so much about myself. I wouldn’t change it for anything. It’s really about the big picture and coming into yourself as a young adult and who you want to be as a person. How you interact with ppl now as opposed to how you used to as a student. Just enough tough times to build your character but also you will never go hungry or be out in the cold. It’s like a summer camp introduction into the real job force with padded walls and fun built in for you. No other companies are like Disney. Relish that time. You will never forget it.

[@vic2958]

@@chefisboss1 goodness i’m a guy and this is so fantastic to hear as I have my phone interview tomorrow. What a great comment.

[@MyMadrid14]

@@chefisboss1 i’m glad i read your comment

[@lightbulb5808]

Wow, this was GREAT! Thank you. Very fair assessment. Some of your negatives I think could actually be positives for me (I'm a very introverted only child, for example, and I'm used to spending time alone). But everything else makes total sense (party culture, drama, wanting a car, etc.) and I appreciate you talking about them so that it's not a culture shock when I get there. I'm graduating next month and doing the DCP from October '23 to May '24. I'm using the summer to save up some money before flying down. I want to work in children's media/entertainment, and I hope the DCP can help me with that! Would love to work for Disney TVA or Feature Animation one day, maybe do a professional internship if I can. Definitely excited about the learning and career development sessions you take with the program as well. It should be fun, but I want to take it seriously too and get the most out of it. TLDR; thanks for such a helpful and realistic video!

[@emilieackerman7751]

omg same I really want to work for kids / children's entertainment and I think im gonna apply too!!

[@ashleyjenkins8739]

Hello! Just started my CP this month! The loneliness you mentioned is currently what I am experiencing. I was already expecting it, but it hit me more than I expected.

[@happyblackwoman6154]

I just finished my 7 month program and was asked by Disney to extend. I told them no. It was a great experience but there was too much bigotry at my work location.

[@desiregarza6926]

Definitely have to remember that Disney is in Orlando, FL first and foremost, a lot of people forget that, I’m glad you were able to make the most of it and that you got out of it

[@CharlotteConstance27]

This was a great video that showed the good and the bad about the program equally! There are so many overly positive or overly negative videos out there!

[@desiregarza6926]

I really wanted to make it as neutral as possible! I’m glad you enjoyed it 😊

[@MsAhmebah2000]

If Disney wants you they should offer to cover your transportation costs and living expenses

[@AbbyElizabeth03]

I love Disney World! It’s always been a dream of mine to work there but as I get older I don’t really think it’s something I’m as interested in. I’m no stranger to loneliness but it’s such a huge life change and I just don’t think that’s where I’m at in my life. I do think if I had a car there it would make a massive difference though. The opportunity to leave property whenever I could would feel so freeing! Thank you for this video. People need to hear this side of the CP more. It’s not the perfect job for everyone.

[@AbbyElizabeth03]

Also like you were saying - all your worries and real life problems don’t just fly away when you start work. Thank you for including the fact that mental health trumps everything. This work work work culture makes people feel bad for not doing everything all the time.

[@desiregarza6926]

Im so glad that you’re able to identify that for yourself because it’s so important! That’s why I wanted to talk about it because I know that it’s information I really would’ve taken more into consideration if I had it. We do have a very demanding culture and it causes so much burn out so I’m glad I can help a little.

[@abigailhand289]

it's such a shame that public transport in the US is so poor :( it must be so hard to get places if you can't drive or afford a car!!

[@desiregarza6926]

It is very hard!

[@scarecrow4383]

You can get a bus pass. It's cheap.

[@abigailhand289]

@@scarecrow4383 sure, but a drive to Daytona beach from Disney world is around an hour, but it’s apparently over 4 hours on the bus, so it is hard to get places!

[@desiregarza6926]

@@scarecrow4383 Being from NYC I tend to find most public transportation outside of NY super confusing, but definitely an option for people if they wanna look into it! Thank you for the suggestion 😊

[@DarkPrincessOfLight]

So true ! I wish the US had better public transportation in other major cities

[@DFish2024]

Thank you! Very Nice review. Packing my Daughters car tonight for a drive from Michigan to Check in on Monday. Nervous Loving Dad ❤👍

[@allysoncashdollar1119]

I wish I had understood this more before I did it. I just wanted it so badly that I agreed to anything including working major holidays. It was a very lonely experience in so many ways. I felt especially lonely on Christmas Eve because I was off and all my roommates were at work. I missed my family so much. Now I know it wasn’t right for me but I think it did help me grow a lot

[@meganroome1681]

I was going to do the Disney college program from January 17 until June 13. I got there and I made it about a week and a half. There was a time where I just had no motivation to work for Disney anymore at all. I would come up with excuses to not even go to my traditions. Although it was fun, and I made some friends, I was drinking heavily every single night. It became extremely unhealthy, and I knew that if I stayed there the trend would probably continue. like I said, I lasted about a week and a half and I made some great memories, but for me personally, I knew that I had to leave you are so right when you talk about the loneliness and anxiety that comes with it. I was not expecting to be so anxious and dislike it that much. My advice for people would just be to prepare yourself with the first couple of weeks because it is really hard and it is such a big adjustment to your normal life. It’s not all happiness and rainbows.

[@desiregarza6926]

Thank you so much for sharing, I’m sorry you went through it but I’m happy that you chose to prioritize yourself and your health. I definitely hope that people realize how big of an adjustment uprooting your entire life can actually be for some people because it is very hard to cope with that change.

[@ocean96113]

I like how honest you are about the program. I too have mental issues and I have an interview next week for the DCP. And I'm super anti-social, but I want to be social lol

[@Wendogic]

A year later, thank you for this video! I recently graduated college and am in a sticky situation where I don't have a car, so I can't get to a job...yet I need a job to make money to get a car. I was looking at the DCP because of the free transport/accommodations, but within the first minute of the video I'm already rethinking everything! It looks like this is a nice opportunity, but more for experience and not for making money. ...Also, I hate party culture lmao

[@jfhfhfhhhdjfhf563]

I did it in 2020. I hated sharing a room with someone, feeling left out, not feeling like home, having no friends and no support and low pay and terrible hours. No thankyou

[@abbyjones9969]

This is all things that is just in regular life though.. there is always random changes and things you don’t expect.. nothing perfect and it is what you make it! I’m applying for 2024 and I’m 27 and I’m sort of glad I’ve waited until I was older… because this is literally how just life is 😂😂 it’s 5-7 months not a lifetime and I think as long as your realize it’s not some fantasy 75% of the time.. you will be just fine.

[@desiregarza6926]

Being older now I completely agree, but I think when I was younger and what I gathered from other people there, a lot of people aren’t prepared for that to be the case so I just wanted to make sure people know what they’re signing up for

[@rimamy8348]

If you don’t mind me asking are you a student? cos i wanted to apply when i’m a bit older but i read that it’s for students only and now i dont know.

[@davidadenaike4538]

Thanks this was a huge help! Just got accepted and trying to decide rather to go or not.

[@aprhjs]

I am going in January and leaving in May. I'm super nervous but excited and hoping to grow and be ready to move out when I return home :)

[@laurendenman4438]

Me too!!!!

[@maggiebrattoli383]

How are you liking your experience at DCP?

[@aprhjs]

@@maggiebrattoli383 it’s been great so far! Definitely hard work and you will most likely be burnout about halfway through but I’m doing well :) 50th is done so now the 100th, Happily Ever After, and the opening on tron since I work in Tomorrowland attractions 👀

[@perfectsense3240]

I just get the feeling (based on the people that I know that did it) the Disney College Program is for people that aren’t ready for the real world so they need to go to fantasy land to work.

[@AngelIcestormSapphire981411721]

I've heard about the Disney College Program, but after reading the information, I've decided to hold off on it. Do the people at DCP choose your working location, or do you fill out your interest yourself? They have artists over there for name art, caricature, spin art, and pet caricature.

[@desiregarza6926]

For the DCP I believe you can submit preferences but other than that they’re able to put you into any role. I would look at the list of roles they’re offering butt hey normally don’t have artist roles.

[@brooklynelise5767]

I just dont know if its possible for me anymore, Im a senior in college now and Im so close to finishing, maybe next fall I could. But then again I'm closer to disneyland in california and I have a season pass so I guess it makes more sense to work there. But the college program is SUCH an experience. and I graduated in 2020 so I still feel like I missed out a little bit.

[@desiregarza6926]

You can still apply up to 6 months after you graduate so if it’s an experience you want I think it’s still worth considering!

[@emileeanne2637]

Hi. I just got accepted and am very excited. I do deal with depression and anxiety but I want this opportunity for myself because I think it will benefit me. Do you think having anxiety would make this experience not worth it?

[@desiregarza6926]

I honestly think that as long as you understand your limits you should be okay. If at any point the program is causing your mental health to decline, you can always self-terminate. My best advice is that you owe it to yourself to at least try it and see how you feel, just because everyone is different and everyone’s personal limits are different.

[@emileeanne2637]

@@desiregarza6926 thank you so much.

[@lps_4_liffe]

I have social anxiety and worked in food and beverage I think working the cash register was the hardest thing for my anxiety but other than that a lot of it was backstage stuff. Preparing sandwiches, grilling them, dish, drink filling. Etc. I worked at McDonald's b4 disney and so I didn't see any massive changes between the 2 jobs. Of course everyone is different but if you think your capable I think you could do it

[@siennaluvskz]

Not sure if anyone here can relate, but I really would love to apply, I’m just so anxious about it because I have never lived away from home before. I’m currently an online college student (hopefully my last semester of that, as I do want to go in person!!) and I just don’t want to let my fear of being away from my parents (might sound silly to some but i love being with them) cause me to miss out on amazing opportunities like this!

[@Christina.Farley]

Nice video! Sounds cool! If I was younger I would have totally enjoyed being apart of it!❤❤❤

[@gabriellechouinard3738]

Thank you! I keep hearing that it is a good idea to bring your car. I really don't want to since it would be a 24 hour drive (and mostly if it is in the winter) but it would be super nice as I would like to go check out Orlando and the other theme parks more. My mom told me too that I wasn't driving, but now I kind of want to. How far are the apartments from International Drive where I would take the I-Ride?

[@desiregarza6926]

I'm actually not too sure about the location of Flamingo Crossings because when I was there we had different housing complexes. But, i'm sure you can plug it into maps and see if it's something you'd be okay with doing.

[@gabriellechouinard3738]

@@desiregarza6926 ok, thanks. Are the other apartments still available, or is it only the Flamingo’s Crossing now?

[@desiregarza6926]

@@gabriellechouinard3738 it’s only Flamingo Crossings now as far as I’m aware

[@gabriellechouinard3738]

@@desiregarza6926 ok, thank you! That sort of sucks because the older ones were cheaper and closer to International Drive (I looked it up.) I’m also sort of excited about that though if I do get in because those apartments are like a resort. I know the cheapest is $185 a week now, and I was wondering why they went up so quickly compared to videos from a couple of years ago. So it makes sense.

[@annaelizabeth264]

i just got in this morning!! thank u for this video :)

[@DarkPrincessOfLight]

So insightful! Amazing video thank you ^_^

[@carmenjones3341]

After the online interview then what ? They said I was a good candidate I’m waiting for the next step now .

[@jackguerre]

You just wait until their next wave of acceptances! Keep checking on the applicant dashboard to see if you get an NLIC, as that immediately disqualifies you, but Disney Programs should announce on their socials when the next wave is. That day, you’ll know if you’re in or out. Good luck!

[@desiregarza6926]

Yep this is what we call “the waiting game” if you follow them on twitter or instagram they will post when there’s an acceptance wave, it’s like Christmas Day every time they do it. It can be hard waiting, but try not to focus on it toooo much.

[@talkingmusic163]

I just of my acceptance after this happening as well!

[@rosswelch-dw7cj]

Thank you so much for making this video!! I just got in the DCP and I am leaving in August. I am hoping to work in attractions. I am also nervous iI wont be able to save any money. Do you think I will be able to save up at least some money while there?

[@Tiki_Tee_]

lol at us working at the same park and never seeing each other 💁‍♀️

[@desiregarza6926]

LITERALLY

[@jaelynwatson8286]

I just got accepted so i’m watching the experiences from different candidates i hope enjoy it😅

[@desiregarza6926]

CONGRATULATIONS! Make the most of it 💖

[@BasicKween]

I’m starting DCP in May. My plan is to stay on full time permanently after my program, is it a high/easy to get a chance to keep a career at Disney after? Thanks!!

[@gtojk8]

Hi! How are you doing now that it’s been a couple of months?

[@M33PSTER]

Do you think that the DCP has helped at all on your resumes? Because I’ve been thinking about doing it since it sounds like a great opportunity and like it would look good for grad school. Also potential employers.

[@desiregarza6926]

I think that it depends on what field you’re trying to go into. It’s great for hospitality, I always wanted to do a professional internship with them so that’s why I did the DCP to get a foot in the door.

[@aaronmince]

As an art major in senior year I'm going to apply and I am a loner but it should be fine. I going to do right after I graduate college

[@AJ-sx4zz]

I just applied and I'm planning on taking online college courses while I am there is that feasible for me to do

[@RS-bn1ty]

I just got an email to apply for this and idk if this is for me being disabled. I would love to get the experience but I'm on a timed schedule with medications. So working nights would not be OK with me and being on a limited income I unfortunately don't think it's for me :(

[@desiregarza6926]

Hi! It's definitely something to take into consideration, but if it's something you really want to do, then I would apply for it and maybe don't do attractions, just because if you get stuck in a position that's safety critical you're not allowed to leave it until someone comes to replace you. Otherwise, my coordinators were always really accommodating when they were able to be. The limited income I also had when I went and it was very stressful, but I believe my friends in Merchandise had a lot more hours. So it's definitely up to you, but it never hurts to try!

[@RS-bn1ty]

@@desiregarza6926 I denied it! It just didn’t come at the right time so not on my path, I’m doing very well during my college time though. I just got an award, so I feel I made the right decision in denying it if that makes sense!

[@teddy90636]

1st. Also, thank you for the insight on the program.

[@desiregarza6926]

Absolutely!

[@selenaselena4510]

How did your experience impact your work life after? I really want to join just so I can get into Disney through other companies they own.

[@desiregarza6926]

I think it really depends on what you’re looking to do. I stopped working for Disney and I work at Universal now, but my experience definitely helped me get my promotion as quickly as I did.

[@selenaselena4510]

@@desiregarza6926 how do you like universal?😊 Do you have any tips on how I can try to work my way in?

[@jst3455]

I got an offer today. Should i bring things like my computer, bass guitar, playstation, etc, or will they get stolen? I mean I bring this stuff to college, but there was no plane involved you know?

[@desiregarza6926]

I didn’t take a plane so I’m not entirely sure, but I’d say bring what you feel like you need to bring, I didn’t bring my bass because I figured I wasn’t gonna be playing it much but it’s up to you

[@user-go5vi3lc2y]

Im really looking forward to it cause i only went to Disney world once as a kid and im a disney nerd and adult so im really excited

[@desiregarza6926]

I’m excited for you! Getting to go to the parks and take your time exploring was something that I enjoyed so much, so definitely feel free to let your inner child free

[@absdragon13]

Question. I want to go in a few years but i have my nose pierced (just a stud) what can i do with it without having to take it out

[@Babiibuzz17]

Loved this video so helpful 😊

[@desiregarza6926]

Yay I’m glad!

[@oliviascalfaro9508]

Just got accepted today! I had three visible tattoos on my arms. Is that going to be a problem?

[@oliviascalfaro9508]

Have*

[@handthing9709]

So you have to save up to work for Disney? That makes no sense. They're paying you aren't they?

[@marianarente5391]

Hey Desire! I just got into the DCP and I’m wondering, is it mandatory to be taking classes while being in the program?

[@desiregarza6926]

Hi! It is not mandatory, I took the semester off to do the program

[@rawbean11]

University faculty here…do NOT “unenroll” from your college or university to do this program unless you really do NOT want to return to that campus. Talk with Academic Advisors on campus about how to maintain enrollment while “taking a semester or longer off”. Maybe take minimum one class online with that campus or some other kind of temp leave. If you unenroll, you have to reapply and pay all the new fees (current at the time of reapplication) and meet all “new entry requirements” which may mean you won’t get back in. Every person and college /university relationship is different but over the years I hear this too much from my students who “wish they knew there might be alternatives” when wanting to either take some time away from full time studies or do an internship like this one. Just thought I would mention this since my niece and I are watching these DCP vlogs.😀

[@iamsunflower2011]

my daughter just got accepted, how does transportation work to and from the park

[@desiregarza6926]

If she doesn’t have a car then the bus will transport her to and from property!

[@lauryno.1105]

How long can you be at the program? Can I be there 3/4 months?

[@desiregarza6926]

That’s up to you, the program itself is about 5 months, but if you want to self-terminate before then you are able to

[@fernandaayres3608]

Thank you for this video! I was just accepted to the program. So, you said about roommate, so, they give us a place to stay, right?

[@lps_4_liffe]

Yeah the place is called flamingo crossings or you can choose to live off property

[@desiregarza6926]

Yes, but also if you choose to live on property, then rent is taken out of your paycheck weekly

[@shininglugia2442]

I have no one here anyway I am very lonely in Albany NY

[@shininglugia2442]

I am trying to move to Florida and work there for ever that’s what I want

[@desiregarza6926]

A lot of people do that and it’s totally possible

[@vanina6854]

Hi! Do you know where do employees live when working in Disneys hilton head island resort in South Carolina?

[@desiregarza6926]

I have not a clue I’m sorry!

[@dorothyallspice1862]

Do you have to be a student to apply for the program? I graduated from a community college a couple years ago and I want to know if I can could still apply regardless.

[@desiregarza6926]

You do either have to be within 6 months of having graduated or actively in College

[@JahanDraws]

Its actually 24 months up to 2 years

[@grimox8351]

Be real with me, is my fake gonna work down there or do I gotta wait til I’m 21 to drink. Might be a make or break for me cuz this sounds like something I can’t do sober for months 😂

[@desiregarza6926]

Tbh, I have no idea because I was 21 on my program, if it’s a make or break you might wanna wait

[@LuiryRodriguez]

Thank god I hate the beach

[@Hplover2626]

Do you get payed during the Disney college program

[@desiregarza6926]

Yes you do but I’m not sure what the current rate is

[@katherineaguilar7188]

@@desiregarza6926what was the pay rate for you? I’m thinking of going since I’m 20 and I just graduated, and I hate my office job and I want to explore different jobs for a short time since I never could when I was younger because my parents never let me

[@michaelramirez7939]

were you able to get school work done on time, i just got accepted i'm really nervous!

[@desiregarza6926]

Hi! I took time off from school to do the program, so I wasn't completing school work while I was there. I think with my schedule it could've been possible, but it depends on your location I'd say. Congrats!

[@OgMadlocks]

Why do they call it a college program? Sounds like you are just going to a job.

[@desiregarza6926]

Because it’s an internship of sorts, and like all internships you are doing a job, but it’s more of showing you what it could be like as opposed to actually being employed.

[@joanie9389]

Is it hard to get in? It’s a dream for me

[@desiregarza6926]

For me, I got in on my first try, but for a lot of people they get denied sometimes 5 times in a row and then get in. I think if it’s something you want, you should at least try, but overall I would say it’s not easy to get in.

[@mayapapaya5005]

I am currently a high school student researching the DCP out of curiosity and interest. I wanted to ask; do people participate in the program for the work and life experience, even if it doesn't align with their career all that much? As it stands for me, I live in Pennsylvania which is of course not in close proximity to Florida. However, if possible, I want to apply for the program while in college. For now, I want other people's opinions on if participating in the DCP is worth it to someone like me, where it's pretty out of the way and unnecessary for my education and career paths.

[@josiemoore4856]

Hey there! I'm kinda in a similar boat with being a high schooler researching about DCP but I live in FL and have friends who are currently in the program or have been recently. From what I've heard it's a great experience to have even if it doesn't align with your preferred career choice. And having the DCP on your resume can get you lots of jobs because of the experiences it gives you. It is hard work though so you need to be sure you're ok with all that comes with it(like she said there are long hours and it gets lonely sometimes) before you get there because otherwise you'll be taking a spot from someone who would really love to be there and could use that involvement. to answer your question about whether it would be worth it I think it absolutely would. Just remember that what you get out of the experience greatly depends on what you put in. Good Luck!!

[@desiregarza6926]

Couldn’t have answered better myself, at the end of the day it’s your life and if it’s an experience you want then go for it!

[@Thatbeefy8]

Do u make friends?

[@desiregarza6926]

I definitely did 😊