WDW CP: The Good, The Bad...ok, mostly the Good

[thejackattack21]

This is my personal response to "The Good, The Bad, and the Downright Ugly" by Tide27. He (I presume...please forgive me if I'm mistaken) wrote an insightful and thorough thread about his negative experience on the CP (one that I have found to be pretty common). I, however, had a very positive experience on the CP (also common) and thought I'd share my (not-nearly-as-detailed) thoughts. Please be sure to read Tide27's writing in order to get a good contrasting view...and because the format of the thread is pretty much stolen from his.

__________________________________________________ _______________

Apartment Complexes: You have two to choose from, Chatham and Vista Way. Both are pretty much equal in terms of amenities (gym, pool, etc...) except that Vista has a brand-new wireless lounge and some offices. I lived at Chatham, and the rooms there were MUCH nicer! However, Vista is considered to be more sociable (probably because people don't want to hang out in their rooms!). So, it's really all about what you want out of your living experience. The rent is pretty steep for the quality, but you're certainly not living in a dump either way.

Transportation: Bring a car!!! You can get around with just the buses, but if you can bring a car, DO IT! You will get to work faster (bus service is slow, circuitous, and crowded), and you will have the freedom to go places in Orlando other than the parks and Wal-Mart, or even to take road trips to other parts of Florida.

Advantage or not?: There is no reason to do the advantage program. If you love your program so much that you want to stay, you can extend at the end of a regular program. You cannot (without extenuating circumstances) cut an advantage short.

Jobs, Schedules, and Money: The jobs here are incredibly diverse, but you don't have too much of an initial choice. I worked in Main Street (Magic Kingdom) operations and loved it; some people hated their jobs. Know yourself; if you are offered a job in Quick Service but hated your summer job at McDonald's, DON'T ACCEPT! The people I knew who were most dissatisfied with their jobs were the ones who knew coming in that they didn't like the job responsibilities. Disney is not so magical that it makes a job you hate instantly better. That being said, if you find you don't like your job once you're there, you can change it; two of my roommates switched positions, and I never heard of a reasonable request being denied.

Your schedule will vary as much as your job does. I rarely ever had more than 30 hours a week; one of my roommates who worked in merchandise generally worked 50 hours a week. You can pick up extra shifts, but it's hard to reduce your hours.

Now, as for money: IF YOU ARE DOING A CP TO EARN MONEY, YOU ARE DOING THE CP FOR THE WRONG REASON! You are earning minimum wage and your rent is relatively high. The biggest complaints I heard were about money, but, again, I think this was a problem of people not knowing enough coming into the CP. If you don't have any other means of financial support, you will be picking up lots of extra shifts. And no, Disney does not pay less than every company in Florida. They pay minimum wage, just like many other companies. I grew up in Florida, and all of my jobs paid the same rate. This problem seems to be most prevalent for people coming from the Northeast, where the minimum wage is higher. A lot of money complaints begin with "But if I were at Company X, I'd be doing the same thing for $9 an hour..." Well, yes, you're right. But unless Company X is something like Coca-Cola or Microsoft, you are not going to get the same perks and networking opportunities as you will at Disney. If you work at Universal Studios, there's nowhere else to go. But at Disney, you could move to ABC or ESPN or Imagineering...just consider that you are being paid in experience, in addition to money.

Can you move up in the company?: Yes and no. If you barely put any effort into your job, don't take advantage of networking opportunities, call in a lot and get reprimands, then no, you will not move up in the company. However, if you make it a point to be the best at your job that you can possibly be to get great reviews from your managers, and take advantage of the classes, networking events, etc...that are offered to you, then you can make a name for yourself in the company. I've heard stories of people who had tyrannical managers who gave them unnecessary reprimands, but you have to remember that, even in that worst case scenario, there are people above your immediate manager. If you advocate for yourself, you will get noticed. Otherwise, you won't. One caveat: don't expect to be promoted during your CP. Some people are, but most aren't. You are not going to leave as an executive; however, you might have met an executive who can hire you in the future...

Basically, my point is this: Your program is exactly what you make it. If you want to slack off, party, and enjoy the parks, that's your business, but you will not move up in the company and might get fired. On the other hand, if you want to make a good name for yourself in one of the world's largest companies and take advantage of the unique opportunities afforded to CP's, you can do that through hard work and self-advocation. The CP is not for everyone. Party-only seekers, money seekers, people with unrealistic expectations about the workload or job description, people expecting an instant seat on the board and people who hate Disney or children (you'd be surprised...those people do, in fact, apply for CPs) will be disappointed. Even people who don't fit into any of those categories sometimes don't have a great experience. But because I advocated for myself with my superiors, went to classes, made friends and enjoyed every minute of my time on and off the clock, I had an amazing, life-changing experience...and, if you apply for the CP, I hope you do too.

[khancock]

This is probably the best and most balanced overview of the program that I've read in a VERY long time (and I've read a lot of them).

The one thing that I disagree with is this statement


Jobs, Schedules, and Money: The jobs here are incredibly diverse, but you don't have too much of an initial choice.

You may have meant that you don't have much of a choice in where you are placed (which attraction you work, which merchandise location you work, etc.).

But if you really did mean that you don't have much of a choice in job (as in type of job), I disagree.

There are tons of jobs to choose from when you apply.

I think where people make the mistake when they interview is that they say what they think the interviewer wants to hear rather than being completely honest. These are the people who say "I'll do anything" when they really don't mean that they would do anything. The people who say "Yes" to the "Will you do Quick Service Food and Beverage" question that EVERYONE is asked in the interview because they think that if they say no that they won't get a job.

In the case of the CP, I'd say that that the person applying has a lot more choice and power than they would for any other type of job interview.

The CP has been expanded so much over the years that they have tons of positions to fill. There really isn't much of a question *if* you will get an offer. You will. You just have to make sure that what you are being offered is what you want to do. You have that power now.

During the interview, people should only list the job(s) that they want to do. Not the ones that they think "this may be OK" or "I'll list this because it will make me look good, but I really don't want it".

Because you really can get the exact job you want.

And also during the interview, you can say where you would like to be placed. They make note of this and more likely than not, that is where you will go. You just have to be specific and don't be too wide open. If you only want to work in merchandise, only say that. You will get it.

[thejackattack21]

You may have meant that you don't have much of a choice in where you are placed (which attraction you work, which merchandise location you work, etc.).

Yes, this is what I meant. Sorry I was so vague.

Thank you very much for your reply! And I totally agree with you...applicants need to understand that they are in control when it comes to their position.

Thanks again!

[TinkerbellLuvr7]

i agree with the statement about saying what you dont want. My roommate had experience with operations and during her interview the CM asked why she didn't want rides and she kindly told them although she has experience shes been there/done that and would like to move to something that would be beneficial to her major and she was put in hospitality which is perfect for her business major. I'm hoping to get the BBBoutique w/hopes of convincing them that it will help towards my education major but we'll see...any tips?! lol

[Joanna71985]

Great report. I definitely agree on these points. The 2 biggest ones for me are: don't do the CP for the money, and don't pick roles you know you won't like. Like someone else said, if you are going to do the CP for the money, then you are doing it for the wrong reason. It should be for the experience, with money being a plus. Most internships don't pay anything. And here you get to go to the parks for free. Pretty cool. Also, don't select roles you don't think you will enjoy just for the sake of being accepted. If you pick QSFB (and you don't think you will enjoy it) you most likely will be put in that role. Just a thought.

I have done the CP 3 times, and will be a campus rep this fall. And I have nothing but good things to say about my time in Disney. So much so that I want to go FT when I graduate.

[negation101]

ive read both threads that are related to each other and to be honest the main thing that i am getting out of it is that you make out of it what you want. now from the stand point of someone who is hopeing to go this spring, what are some thigns to look out for before or after we arrive there in fla?

[thejackattack21]

ive read both threads that are related to each other and to be honest the main thing that i am getting out of it is that you make out of it what you want. now from the stand point of someone who is hopeing to go this spring, what are some thigns to look out for before or after we arrive there in fla?

Look out for in terms of what? Work? Living in Orlando?

[negation101]

work i suppose... i guess im just looking for advice on making this everything i want it to be. which is an oppertunity of possibly working at disney FT and living in orlando by going through the internship programs

[thejackattack21]

If you've already interviewed, then ignore this. Otherwise:

Be completely honest in your interview. Don't say you'll do something if you don't want to do it. And don't be afraid to mention that "The Haunted Mansion has been my favorite attraction ever since I was a kid, so I'd love to be a butler/maid" or "I'm SO passionate about animals...I'd love to work at Animal Kingdom". It doesn't guarantee that you'll get what you want, but it can't hurt.

Once you're there, make sure to take advantage of every opportunity given to you- sign up for classes, especially the ones that help with resume building. Make sure you sign up for the e-mail communications and go to all of the activities that interest you, especially the networking ones. There is always something going on!

At work, make sure to always do your best and...most importantly, show up! You'd be surprised how many people fail to do that. Also, keep in contact with your managers and homeroom leader (a manager assigned to you as a contact) and make sure you're getting the best experience you can.

Most importantly- have fun! You get free admission to the parks- use it!

That's everything I can think of. Let me know if you have any more questions...

[ak714251]

I just had my interview earlier this week and after taking everyone's advice, I stood my ground about where I want to work. I said that I only want to do attractions operation and specifically I want to work at either the Jungle Cruise or The Great Movie ride. The recruiter asked if I would do Merch or the BBBoutiques and I said after working retail I'm not really stoked to do those things but rather I want to work in something unique to Disney.. the rides!

Any thoughts from past experiences or stories that other people have told if I have a chance as to getting what I requested?

PS - All the tips and stories about the program are awesome (the good reports and the bad ones). It seems like people are recommending either 2 or 3 bedrooms. Has disney changed the policy and now giving information about roommates early? Or is it still who's ever around you when you get there? Last question as far as housing, should you get there as early as possible for Chatham or is there a request form?

Thanks!!

[vamoose27]

In my interview I told the interviewer than my number 1 without a doubt role was recreation and that i specifically wanted waterslide attendant... I'm in recreation, now I just have to wait until January to see if I got the other 1/2 of my request!!

As for roomates, If you fill out the roomate survey they'll give you information on 1 of your roomates. However, from what I've heard from Fall people who are there now, if you fill out the roomate request you basically have no say whatsoever in what complex you're in or how many rooms are in your apt. -That if you do roomate matching they automatically assign you these before your check in day whereas if you don't fill out the survey they assign them the day you come down and you can sort of tell the people what you would like.

I guess I can't really testify to the validity of that, just something i've heard.

[Sehsun]

PS - All the tips and stories about the program are awesome (the good reports and the bad ones). It seems like people are recommending either 2 or 3 bedrooms. Has disney changed the policy and now giving information about roommates early? Or is it still who's ever around you when you get there? Last question as far as housing, should you get there as early as possible for Chatham or is there a request form?

Thanks!!

The roommate notification process is still around, and if you choose to participate in that, you will know who one of your roommates will be (i.e., the one you are sharing an actual bedroom with) before you check in. You either fill out a brief survey and are matched up with someone with similar answers (I think), or you can request a certain person if you know their name and applicant number.

There is no request form, so I recommend getting there early to get the apartment complex that you want.

However, from what I've heard from Fall people who are there now, if you fill out the roomate request you basically have no say whatsoever in what complex you're in or how many rooms are in your apt. -That if you do roomate matching they automatically assign you these before your check in day whereas if you don't fill out the survey they assign them the day you come down and you can sort of tell the people what you would like.

I guess I can't really testify to the validity of that, just something i've heard.

At first, this is exactly what I heard too. However.....my roommate and I participated in the roommate notification process, and we were able to get the apartment complex and size that we requested. We also arrived pretty early the morning of check-in. So there is hope! :)

[AuroraInPink1226]

Hi all! I have been so interested to read about your experiences and advice. Now I'm hoping someone can give me some advice about the Spring Advantage Quarter. I have heard that Disney really wants you to work for at least 6 months but that you can go for only 3 during the spring advantage quarter from may to august. I really cant afford to miss and entire semester of school if I want to stay on track so I'm hoping to get into this program. does anyone know how much more difficult this program is to get into or have any tips on how to approach this topic with my interviewer? thanks so much!


PS--i interview on thursday! ahhhh....so nervous!

[Joanna71985]

Hi all! I have been so interested to read about your experiences and advice. Now I'm hoping someone can give me some advice about the Spring Advantage Quarter. I have heard that Disney really wants you to work for at least 6 months but that you can go for only 3 during the spring advantage quarter from may to august. I really cant afford to miss and entire semester of school if I want to stay on track so I'm hoping to get into this program. does anyone know how much more difficult this program is to get into or have any tips on how to approach this topic with my interviewer? thanks so much!


PS--i interview on thursday! ahhhh....so nervous!

May to August is actually the Summer Program. It used to be a regular program, but has since been changed to an alumni-only program. They did do it in Summer 2006 for first-time people (only roles were custodial, QSFB, and limited lifeguard) but last summer 2007 they did not do it.

[darby01_2007]

I am majoring in Computer generated 3-D design and animation,are there any roles that would go hand in hand with my major???

[khancock]

I am majoring in Computer generated 3-D design and animation,are there any roles that would go hand in hand with my major???

If you mean working in animation directly, no.

The positions on the program are all working in the theme parks and different resort hotels.

[darby01_2007]

I didn't think so!!! I am going to apply for operations and hopefully work in one of the rides.

[futreWDI]

But good news... there are PI's with Disney Design Group for that stuff and they usually require that you do a CP. My friend Ellen just finished her PI in May. SHe loved it.

[wishspirit]

I am so jelous of all of you!
I live in the UK, therefore i cannot go for any of these programes, but i would LOVE to work at Disney for a year or so.
Did anyone else have an international person in their cp? Does anyone know how an English person may apply?

Thank you
Kate

[Sehsun]

I am so jealous of all of you!
I live in the UK, therefore i cannot go for any of these programs, but i would LOVE to work at Disney for a year or so.
Did anyone else have an international person in their cp? Does anyone know how an English person may apply?

Thank you
Kate

Hi Kate,
It is possible for you to work at Disney! You can do it through the International College Program - disneyinternationalprograms.com. Also, Ocean Girl posted a link on the College Program Questions thread a while ago that has a discussion board for the ICPers - www.wdwip.com/smf/. You should go for it! :)

[jimaok]

My daughter completed the Cp program last Aug thru Jan 2007. Here are my observations.

If you're going to make money- forget it. You will make minimum wage, work long hours and live in a small apartment with 5 other people. You may get a job you like or you may not. She had her good days and bad days serving up sandwiches at the Wilderness Lodge. You WILL ask your parents for money. She took her car, which helped alot. But one speeding ticket took her entire weeks earnings $180.00. (55 in a 45 right outside Vista Way). She went with the expectation of getting college credit- she took took courses- went to them faithfully and got her graduation tassel ears upon graduation- the only problem was, the 2 courses she took did not transfer to Kent State University. If you're taking classes make sure they are accepted at your University and get youre transcripts BEFORE you leave Disney.

On the other hand, if you want to make lifelong friends, get into the parks every day for free, get some nice discounts on merchandise and rooms then you should go. She was able to get us great rates on Disney rooms and park hopper tickets(free) for our three visits down to see her. She says she had a great experience although a little "pixie dust" is gone. She does not regret going and having the chance to do it over again she would.

[Joanna71985]

Actually, that's not always true about asking parents for money. On all 3 of my CPs I did not ask for any, and always came back with money. In fact, my 2nd CP I came home with over $2000.

[Jules76126]

I think that the Cp was the best experience of my life and I cant wait to go back. I made the most awsome friends that I could have ever hoped for and I am still in touch with them to this day. I loved my job and all the people I worked with. I had a wonderful romance and wouldnt trade my experience for the world. It is so hard to explain because it is so surreal. You are having the best time of you life and you know that you will never get back these times and you make the most of it. We all had our good and bad days but mostly good and even the bad days werent that bad, you're in Disney world. I made no money but thats because I went out constantly. I went to Universal a lot, ate out at lot and whatnot but I would rather have fun than work like crazy and make money. It all depends what you want to do. I didnt have a car and the bus worked okay but I usually got a ride from my friends or boyfriend so I would recommend a car. I plan on bring mine on my next program.

[AladdinJay]

Just my opinion real fast for the people asking if they should go for the CP or not and asking all about what it's like. Honestly, 99% of how successful your program is depends on your roommates and the job/location you get. In other words, things you will have no idea about until you get down there!

But, I totally agree with everybody else, you won't be making much money at all, but the CP is quite an experience!

[dizchick]

The CP was one of the best times of my life. I did mine about 5 years ago and still keep in touch with people that I met on the program. Yes, you will work long hours sometimes for very little pay. There is also a chance that you will NOT like your roommates, but you can make friends at your job or just in the apartment complex. Luckily, I had great roommates and we would have a blast at the parks on our days off. The pay is dismal, but don't go down expecting to bring a lot home. I actually took about $3000 with me to help me get through the program since I knew I would be making so little. By the end, I had used most of it. But, I got to do really cool things and visit fun places in FL and eat at great restaurants that I might not have had the opportunity to otherwise. I was really fortunate that I was in a situation where I was able to do that.
Otherwise, if you're just surviving on the Disney pay, you'll be ok! Just sign up for some extra hours here and there and don't go out all the time to dinners, bars, movies, etc. There are plenty of free or cheap things to do to have fun! Enjoy it - it'll be one of the best times of your life.

[travlrmel]

To TheJackAttack21 and others -
- Thank you for your post. Is this an assessment of the CP program? Does it cover the PI program as well - or does anyone have any additional input for the PI experience?

Thanks!

[tar heel]

Like Joanna, my son has not asked for money and says he's saved a good bit. He's scheduled a lot of hours in the dreaded quick service food and beverage role and has gotten overtime many weeks. He also isn't much of partier, so his money goes further than it does for his roommates (or would have for me :rotfl: )

He does not have a car and says the transportation is awful. He says the job has good days and bad days. Overall, he's glad he did the program, but he doesn't want to extend.

It's safe to day he's a lost a little pixie dust, too, but he still loves the parks.

[darby01_2007]

I'm going there no expecting to have much $$$$, and much like every job, there are good and bad days!!! But jut to work at Disney and make friends from all over the world is a dream come true:)

[thejackattack21]

To TheJackAttack21 and others -
- Thank you for your post. Is this an assessment of the CP program? Does it cover the PI program as well - or does anyone have any additional input for the PI experience?

Thanks!

No problem! Glad you're enjoying it/finding it helpful. This post is just about the CP- I haven't done a PI, and from what I understand, the experiences are quite different.

[wishspirit]

Anyone come out of the CP and come back with more pixie dust??

I have been considering working at disney after i graduate uni for a year 'out' before doing a teaching degree. I would love to work there but am worried about a few things you guys might like to help me clear up
- The heat. I am an English Girl, who is used to cold and rain, does it get unbearably hot out there and if so is there anything i could ask to do to keep in the cool?
- Accomidation- Do you share your room with other people or just the flat? Is it one person to a room, i quite value my privacy?
- Transport- I can drive, but would i need to A) get a Florida Driving licence B) be able to buy a car fairly cheap? Anywhere sell second hand cars??
- Nightlife- Is it huge or is it fairly small?

Thanks so much if you could help!

[Joanna71985]

Anyone come out of the CP and come back with more pixie dust??

I have been considering working at disney after i graduate uni for a year 'out' before doing a teaching degree. I would love to work there but am worried about a few things you guys might like to help me clear up
- The heat. I am an English Girl, who is used to cold and rain, does it get unbearably hot out there and if so is there anything i could ask to do to keep in the cool?
- Accomidation- Do you share your room with other people or just the flat? Is it one person to a room, i quite value my privacy?
- Transport- I can drive, but would i need to A) get a Florida Driving licence B) be able to buy a car fairly cheap? Anywhere sell second hand cars??
- Nightlife- Is it huge or is it fairly small?

Thanks so much if you could help!

I don't know about more pixie dust (as I have always been a HUGE Disney fan). But I have done 3 CPs (so I guess that counts for something). As for your questions:
1) Yes, during the summer it can get really hot. The only thing to do is wear light clothes and drink lots of water.
2) In the apartments it is 2 people per bedroom. So a 1-BR is 2 people, a 2-BR is 4 people, a 3-BR is 6 people, and a 4-BR is 8 people.
3) I don't think you would need a FL licence. However, there are buses for the CP so that helps.
4) Nightlife is not too bad. A lot of people go to DTD and PI.

[Andrusi]

- The heat. I am an English Girl, who is used to cold and rain, does it get unbearably hot out there and if so is there anything i could ask to do to keep in the cool?
Well, you could set the air conditioning in such a way that your apartment gets ridiculously cold, especially in the bathroom where the vent goes directly into the shower, causing roommates to nearly die of hypothermia every morning. But then you would be my roommates, and since I'm male, I think we wouldn't be allowed to room together.

For a serious answer: Yes, it gets pretty hot down here. (Even now it's rather warm! It's been cold-ish in the mornings, so I've been wearing a pullover, but it's uncomfortable in the middle of the day.) To keep cool:

-In your apartment, the air conditioning tends to be pretty powerful, as I suggested above. If you'd rather not stay cooped up inside all day, you can always go to the pool. (Though I don't trust that pool after some of the stories I've heard about it. Let's just say :hug: doesn't quite cover it.)

-At the parks (and other places), dress for warm weather and bring a water bottle. Use it. Once it's empty, start getting drinks. (You're at Disney World! You're supposed to buy overpriced things!) If you're feeling too hot, go inside! There are usually plenty of places that have air conditioning, or at least some shade and a fan. Speaking of fans, if you get one of those little misters (basically a spray bottle with a battery-powered fan on top--you turn on the fan and then squeeze, and end up spraying mist), it'll feel great in the heat.

-At your workplace, it'll depend mainly on what your role is. But if you're doing something that keeps you outside most or all of the time, your trainer will probably have some appropriate tips to pass on to you.

- Accomidation- Do you share your room with other people or just the flat? Is it one person to a room, i quite value my privacy?
As Joanna said, you'll have one person in the room with you. Depending on how things work out, you may be sharing a bathroom with just that person or also with the people in another room. Vista Way apartments, for instance, have one shared bathroom, and then another bathroom that's in one of the bedrooms. (Mine! :thumbsup2)

How much privacy this will give you depends a lot on what your roommate is like. I've actually had two: one who tended to hang out in our room with another one of the people in the apartment (and both guys were rather annoying), and one who seems to use the room purely as a place to sleep, keep his stuff, and talk loudly on the phone. If worse comes to worst, the closets are roomy enough to change in pretty comfortably unless you're claustrophobic.

- Transport- I can drive, but would i need to A) get a Florida Driving licence B) be able to buy a car fairly cheap? Anywhere sell second hand cars??
Not being a licensed driver myself, I am not entirely certain where you could get a car or for how much, but I've never known any populated part of the U.S. to suffer from a shortage of used car lots.

As for a driver's license, I'm not certain, but my five-minute Google research suggests: The US recognizes English driving licenses, but you're required to have certain types of insurance in Florida, and insurance companies tend to demand US licenses.

Be careful about using the bus transportation. Often they can somewhat reliably get you to where you're going at more or less the scheduled time. Some routes are better about this than others--the A bus seems to run like clockwork most of the time, while the K bus pretty much comes and goes as it pleases, with the schedule being only vaguely similar to reality.

- Nightlife- Is it huge or is it fairly small?
All CPs have easy access to Downtown Disney, and therefore to Pleasure Island.

This is either really convenient or really inconvenient. Which one it is depends largely on your work schedule, and specifically on whether you need to get up early in the morning. The same question, this time asked of your roommates, is also a factor.

[sugahappy]

Anyone come out of the CP and come back with more pixie dust??


YES! I read the earlier posts on this thread about people leaving the CP with a little less pixie dust. But this is not the case for me. I have always been in love with Disney but since being a CM I love it even more. I was worried that seeing the "other side" of WDW the magic would be diminished but somehow that didn't happen. AND I was a custodian, so I promise you as a CM I saw some very, very unmagical things.

I love coming back to WDW as a guest with the knowledge of a CM. I don't really know how to explain it....but that's how it is for me at least! The only downside is that when I come back as a guest I wish I was still a CM so I could be there all the time; it makes me sad to know my visits are just temporary now.

[wishspirit]

Thanks you guys, has been very helpful!

I am thinking about doing the international programme first (for 3 months over the summer) and see how i like it, then maybe do more when i take a gap year.

oooh, planning!

[sugahappy]

Thanks you guys, has been very helpful!

I am thinking about doing the international programme first (for 3 months over the summer) and see how i like it, then maybe do more when i take a gap year.

oooh, planning!

Go for it! I did the summer-only CP and I worked with several people who were doing the 3 month international program, one guy from England, a few from Mexico, and a few from France. They all seemed to like it a lot! The guy from England was definitely able to handle the heat too, but he put like 40 layers of sunscreen on every day!

[zulemara]

YES! I read the earlier posts on this thread about people leaving the CP with a little less pixie dust. But this is not the case for me. I have always been in love with Disney but since being a CM I love it even more. I was worried that seeing the "other side" of WDW the magic would be diminished but somehow that didn't happen. AND I was a custodian, so I promise you as a CM I saw some very, very unmagical things.

I love coming back to WDW as a guest with the knowledge of a CM. I don't really know how to explain it....but that's how it is for me at least! The only downside is that when I come back as a guest I wish I was still a CM so I could be there all the time; it makes me sad to know my visits are just temporary now.


/agree!!!!

After working at Disney, it has only made my desire to go back THAT much stronger! I came home kicking and screaming. I miss the days of being bored and deciding I'd just go to the parks cuz it's free entertainment. The only thing that gets me more than my upcoming visit is the fact that I'll have to leave after 10 days /cry


also to the original poster, your assessment is right on. I'm a campus rep and I ALWAYS tell people you get out of it what you put into it and don't accept a role you know you won't like!

[wishspirit]

The guy from England was definitely able to handle the heat too, but he put like 40 layers of sunscreen on every day!

Hehe!

That will be me, im fair skinned too, so lots and LOTS of Sunscreen!

[SweaterInJune]

Just to echo the already overwhelming sentiment--you only get out what you put in! It's true...

I consider it the best thing I've ever done with my life and so happy I waited until after graduation to do it (even though I had previously been cast as character performer). I'm more than likely moving to Orlando and going full time in a year, when I return from living in Germany. I can't imagine not having Disney in my life. I wasn't planning on leaving, but I had to tend to some other things and dreams, or I'd never forgive myself.

The work is sometimes tiring and I had what people consider one of the best roles. I agree with that--amazing experience, but yes there are good days and bad--like everywhere.

I made friends for LIFE. I've never felt that way in my life aside from a few people. I know that at least 4 of the friends I made are now a part of my family--forever. There are many many more I still stay in contact with quite regularly.

There is nothing like Disney magic--but you have to find it and embrace it-- and this whole experience was way beyond my expectations. Things didn't always go the way I wanted them to, but it was worth it in every single way to participate...

You live, you learn--earning not so much, but that is the most important learning experience for many--Yes! you can live on a CP salary...

One word of advice, if you make friends with anyone on the International Program, particularly those F&B workers in Norway--don't ask how much they make in one day. You DON'T want to know... ;-)

Have the time of your life--the CP will be, if you let it...

[Tide27]

I am the one that started this format a long time ago after my experiences here at Disney didnt match what my expectations were.

Looking back at it now, I still have the same opinion.

Its all about expectations.

I saw the college program as something that could help build my resume and be a faster track into management here at Disney ( or elsewhere should I choose )


This of course is not what happened, and I only realized once I got here, that those expectations were not going to happen.

Having said that, I can also say that I met some wonderful people here and done many fun and exciting things.

Ive met the young lady of my dreams, I made a difference in many peoples lives , I had a wonderful time traveling around southern florida, etc etc etc..

Do I regret the CP? No I just let myself down by having expectations that were not met and promised. Had I come down here to just have a blast, meet tons of people, and take a vacation from classes for 8 months...then I would have had a much better time.

However I came down here to advance professionally, and thats not what the CP is for.

Come down here and have a blast. Im sure you will.

We all liked it so much that we stayed here in Orlando ( Not at Disney though )

[khancock]

I saw the college program as something that could help build my resume and be a faster track into management here at Disney ( or elsewhere should I choose )


This of course is not what happened, and I only realized once I got here, that those expectations were not going to happen.

However I came down here to advance professionally, and thats not what the CP is for.

I find it interesting that you say this. The management internships require the CP as a pre-requisite to apply for them.

Looking at the event pictures on the CP site, they are still doing the alumni speakers series stuff with various areas. I'm also sure that there are alumni managers out there (even ones on the management internships) that would have been willing to talk to you about those positions if you were interested.

You didn't go into if you sought out those converations/meetings or not so I don't know if you made an effort (or big effort) and got discouraged or expected things to come to you directly. There are people that do both.

As an older alumni, I will also say that you probably got more out of it than you realize at this point too. You are still too close to just leaving.

Your comments about expectations are on the mark. I think message boards and some alumni (especically campus reps) tend to build up unreasonable expectations and excitement levels. I don't think Disney does it as much itself. If you look at what is on the site, they say stuff is available, but they never flat out promise anything.

Walt Disney World is a business pure and simple. Front line Cast Members at Disney are just cogs on that wheel just as front line employees are in any business. That may be the biggest learning of all for anyone who hasn't been out in the workforce for any amount of time.

When it comes to the College Program, it is really nothing more than a staffing strategy for Disney. That's the business side of it. They extend offers to just about everyone who applies. It isn't competitive. Disney can't hire people in Orlando, so they have to import them from all over the place.

But from a participants perspective, they need to take advantage of everything that is available to them as early as they can. It isn't easy and one can easily get discouraged, but it is possible.

[Tide27]

Ill clarify a few points since I didnt go into much detail.

I did the Dec 13-Aug 10th Advantage program for Hospitality. I have been completed with the program now for 5 months.

I went into the CP with the goal of a PI. I was told that the only way to get into a professional intern slot was to do the CP, and by doing the long CP I would have a better chance to learn the job and get more knowledge. On a side note, Disney was / is an excellent resume builder I was told.

So far, so good.

When it came time to apply for the professional internship, they said I wasnt qualified due to the fact that I had not yet "completed" a regular CP. Now...had I done the super short CP program, I would have been eligible supposedly, but by choosing the advantage program..I was not eligible.

Couple of months down the road we got a bunch of new PIs in the hotel and I asked them how their regular CP went. It was then that I learned that you no longer needed to have a regular CP to be qualified for many of the management internships anymore. I then proceeded to talk to PI recruiting at the casting center and found out first hand that most management internships no longer require the regular CP to be completed.

Ok..so I got shafted...I was told mis information about the requirements for the June PI, so no problem...Ill just apply for the January PI. So I go back to casting to apply for the January PI since I had been told I wasnt eligible for the June PI....which we found out later I was.

I am a graduating senior, with prior management experience already, so the regular CP wont help me on a resume....so I figure Ill cut my losses..., extend my program and do the January PI. Nope, cant do that either...it would push an internship longer than 1 year, which is not allowed by Disney.

At this point Disney tells me I can go back home and attend another semester of school to be eligible for the Jan PI.

The whole point of coming down here was to do the PI...and at every point in the process there was misinformation from everyone from the HR person at work, from casting, from PI recruiting, my recruiter, etc etc etc.

This is why my perspective of the CP program is different than others. It is also why I say its about expectations. This is a wonderful program depending on what you come down here looking for.

I came down here looking for a career, and find out that you actually start at a disadvantage by doing the college program, as opposed to starting out full time.

As far as resume builders goes...guess it all depends on what level of work you are looking for. I sent out a ton of resumes, and got a few responses from employeers stating that they couldnt confirm my work experience at Disney. When a prospective employeer calls Disney, the only information they can obtain is your start and end date. You could manage multi million dollar resorts there....and your new employeer cant verify that....You could be custodial and lie and say that you were the vice president of operations of the Magic Kingdom and they cant verify that either.

Overall....I had a wonderful time on the program, but was let down because of my expectations.

Dont think Im bitter about the program, or was a ****ty employee or something. I believe I was the only college program cast member to be on the front page of the WDW website and have a story written about them.

[aurora23]

I have a few questions that I hope I can get answered here. I am a 23 year old student pursuing a Master's Degree in Social work. My bachelor's degree was in Political Science. I have prior internship experience in both fields. I will be graduating in December 2008 and want to apply for the PI program in January of 09. I have not previously worked for Disney or done other CP. My questions are: Do you have to do a CP before becoming a PI? How competitive is the PI program? Would I have to live in one of the apartment complexes (my fiancee and I would be moving to Florida if I got the internship and I would want to live with him)? Is housing outside of the Disney provided housing easy to find? My ultimate goal is to be employed full time by Disney. Do many PI's get offered full time jobs after completion of the program?

Thank you in advance for any help you may be able to offer.

[theatre817]

-Do you have to do a CP before becoming a PI?
-How competitive is the PI program?
-Would I have to live in one of the apartment complexes (my fiancee and I would be moving to Florida if I got the internship and I would want to live with him)? Is housing outside of the Disney provided housing easy to find?
-Do many PI's get offered full time jobs after completion of the program?

-For most programs you do have to do a CP before doing a PI, however some do not require it; it depends on what field.
-From what I hear and have experienced, the PI program is very competitive; also depends on what field.
-You are not required to live in the Disney offered housing. Housing seems relatively easy to find.
-Disney does like to hire FT out of the CP/PI programs, so it will definitely get your foot in the door! No guarantees of course, but it will give you an edge up and a chance to show them what you've got!

Good luck! The best place to look is on the careers page at disney.com

[Tide27]

-Do you have to do a CP before becoming a PI?
-How competitive is the PI program?
-Would I have to live in one of the apartment complexes (my fiancee and I would be moving to Florida if I got the internship and I would want to live with him)? Is housing outside of the Disney provided housing easy to find?
-Do many PI's get offered full time jobs after completion of the program?

-For most programs you do have to do a CP before doing a PI, however some do not require it; it depends on what field.
-From what I hear and have experienced, the PI program is very competitive; also depends on what field.
-You are not required to live in the Disney offered housing. Housing seems relatively easy to find.
-Disney does like to hire FT out of the CP/PI programs, so it will definitely get your foot in the door! No guarantees of course, but it will give you an edge up and a chance to show them what you've got!

Good luck! The best place to look is on the careers page at disney.com

1st thing ) Dont let anyone tell you that a majority of PIs require a regular CP anymore. Time has changed. If you do a little amount of research, you will see that the requirement of having completed a regular CP first to be eligible for a PI is gone ( for a lot of PIs ). If you are unsure of this, contact Mark Hammer , Professional Recruiting at the Casting Center. I have personally sat in his office many times and he is one of the ones that decides who gets in and who doesnt. So regardless of what people here, or recruiters say.....contact that individual. It wasnt until I contacted him that I realized I was filled with so much mis information it wasnt even funny.

2nd ) Professional Internships are competitive. From looking at the information presented to me about the PI I was interested in....there were well over 500 applications submitted for a position that holds 40 people.

3rd ) Housing isnt too difficult to find. They will put you up in a hotel for a week or 2 to allow you to find a place to stay. Many PIs stay at a place called Northbridge, but thats a good ways away. Depending on what your salary as a PI is, will depend on where you go. The ones getting 600 a week go pretty much anymore, those only getting 10-13 an hour go to Northbridge, Sabal Palms, etc etc.

4) Yes, Disney hires full time out of the CP....but you are still moving into a minimum wage job pretty much as a full time cast member. There is absolute no advantage to having done a CP when you move to full time. If you listen to some people here, you would get the impression that doing a CP somehow can help advance your career as far as full time goes. However, if you look at Disney ...it is hiring nonstop year round. There is so much turnover here, that there is always demand for new employees.

[aurora23]

Thank you for all of your advice, it is very helpful. I have a lot to consider now.