The Dr. Phil of Disney

Ok, so maybe I exaggerate a little, but I feel there are certain things I know from being in the College Program twice before that I wouldn't have known otherwise. Admittedly so, it is rather tough to say what has been learned without sounding like a know-it-all, but I plan to try. My point is to give others a heads up as to what may be expected & hopefully be of some help. Bear in mind that this is only based on one student intern's working & living at Walt Disney World & that it may not even be the same for me as I soon embark on a third time around.

~ Though most people complain about the bus system, it really isn't that bad. (Just leave early.)


~ Even if you're not a smoker, living with smokers isn't all bad. (I lived with several & never had a problem; I barely noticed.)


~ One TV in the apartment may seem like a stretch, but you learn to like each other's shows pretty quickly.


~ Putting dirty dishes in the dishwasher, instead of leaving them in the sink, is a small but very important & considerate gesture. (Far too many frustrations have arisen from this issue.)


~ Sharing your roommates' food may be totally fine, but ask anyway just to be safe.


~ Bringing your own car is certainly more convenient, but saving money on gas by leaving it at home isn't bad either.


~ If you eat in the parks everyday, or nearly everyday, your bank account WILL suffer!


~ Graduation is not mandatory, but it is a fun experience that is worth your time.


~ Be open to many "firsts" in your life during the program (as long as they don't make you uncomfortable), because they will happen & should be a lot of fun :)


~ If you're looking to accumulate a significant amount of savings from your income, then this program probably isn't for you (though there are always exceptions).


~ Taking an education course during your internship is NOT a waste of time, even if you're just doing it for fun.


~ Every apartment complex has advantages & disadvantages.


~ The most important parts of The Disney Look are little things like hair, nails, & tattoos (especially at Traditions).


~ You can always find a reason to complain about your job, but it will be a much better experience if you look for the positive.


~ Unless you have no interest in the parks themselves, take every opportunity to use your free entrance & do all that you can to get to know the many amazing man-made wonders of Walt Disney World!


~ It's best not to look at everything with clouded vision & know that real life goes on...even at Disney World.


~ Being considerate with the thermostat is just as important as everything else; just because it gets hot outside doesn't mean it has to freeze inside ;)


~ Realize that your "best friends" in the program may not stay that way & your "enemies" don't have to (stay enemies) either.


~ Even though the program is longer than any Disney vacation you'll ever take, know that it is not possible to do all it has to offer in a single season. (That's all the more reason to do it again!)


~ You will be the most-loved roommate in the apartment if you are a good cook :D


~ Despite the fact that Disney is all around you, it is easy to forget that you live & work at such a "magical" place. (There is a day-to-day grind you will go through.)


~ Roommates may change as often as cast members get new costumes (for various reasons).


~ It is best not to leave for work (or anything else) upset or angry with any of your roommates because you WILL have to face them later.


~ Do not, under any circumstances, overestimate the power of the toilets in your apartment; bring or buy a real plunger because they overflow at the drop of a hat!

~Steph :)