My Year on the Disney College Program: How I Moved to Walt Disney World and Lived My Dream

Hi, I’m Jess (and yes, I work for Mickey Mouse—cue my go-to hairdresser icebreaker 😅). Let me tell you about the incredible gap year that changed my life forever: my year on the Disney College Program!

This experience not only took me from my small hometown in Australia all the way to Walt Disney World in Florida, but it also sparked a whole career in the world of Disney magic—including six years (and counting) working at sea with Disney Cruise Line.

So, how did a single year working in the parks lead to all this? Grab your Minnie ears, because here’s the full story!

*My first time meeting my boss as a Cast Member.*

What Is the Disney College Program?

The Disney College Program (DCP) is a seasonal internship where university students or recent graduates can live and work at Walt Disney World Resort. From attractions to merchandise to food & beverage, you get real-world experience while making magic in the parks.

I applied as a fresh grad with a Bachelor of Design and a huge craving for adventure—and ended up spending a year living, working, and playing at Walt Disney World. It was the Best. Decision. Ever.

*Knocking on the ‘Casting Agency’ door at Magic Kingdom – a Cast Member mandatory pic!*

Moving from Australia to Disney World

I applied to the DCP in 2017 (check the Disney Programs website for updated application details!) and was over the moon when I got accepted.

I flew from Australia to Orlando, met up with my uncle, and drove straight to the Most Magical Place on Earth. It was official: I was about to live at Walt Disney World for a whole year.

In those days, before Flamingo Crossings, DCP participants stayed in one of four housing complexes. I lived at Chatham Square (the cozy Hufflepuff of accommodations) for the first half of the year, then moved to Vista Way (definitely giving Gryffindor energy).

Disney Traditions: Earning My Ears

Your first day as a Cast Member starts with Traditions, Disney’s orientation class that welcomes you to the company and its legacy. I still remember the goosebumps I got seeing my Disney name tag for the first time. I’d dreamed of this moment for so long!

From there, I headed to costuming to try on my Main Street USA uniform (#plaidforever!) and started training for my role in Merchandise at the Emporium.

Working on Main Street USA

Working at the Emporium—the busiest merchandise location in Magic Kingdom—was wild, magical, and honestly one of the best experiences of my life.

Yes, it was chaotic (especially after fireworks!), but I loved every second. From trading pins to hearing the Dapper Dans in the morning and watching Happily Ever After fireworks every night, it was a dream. I’ll never forget watching guests react to Tinkerbell flying—it filled my heart with joy every single time.

Even closing shifts at 3 a.m. felt magical. I’d take out the trash across an empty Main Street, castle glowing in the distance, and just soak it all in.

Disney cast member dressed in plaid costume standing in-front of Mickey plush wall in the emporium while hugging a Mickey plush — *One of the most satisfying jobs in Merchandise – the Plush Wall!*

Living the Disney Life

When you’re in the Disney College Program, the magic doesn’t stop after your shift ends. On my days off, I practically lived in the parks.

A quick ride on the PeopleMover before work? Yes. Trying every snack, restaurant, and attraction? Absolutely. Watching the fireworks again and again? You bet. (And I still cry every time.)

I also became a full-fledged Disney adult—hello, Minnie ears, spirit jerseys, and pin collecting. I made lifelong friends (my Vista Way roommate even lives a couple hours away from me now in Australia!), and honestly, I’ve never felt more at home than I did during that year.

Girl wearing Minnie Mouse ears looking at cinderella's castle at magic kingdom

Saying Goodbye to the Program

When my program ended, I was heartbroken. As an Aussie, I could only participate in the Disney College Program once, and I didn’t want it to end.

But just a few months later, I found a new way to work for the Mouse—this time, at sea. I joined Disney Cruise Line, and I’ve been living that Disney dream ever since!

Should You Do the Disney College Program?

YES. A thousand times yes. Whether you’re taking a gap year, exploring career paths, or just following your dreams, the Disney College Program is an unforgettable adventure that could change your life—just like it did for me.

So, if you’re wondering whether to take that leap? Do the thing. Apply for the DCP. Say yes to the adventure.

Dreams really do come true.