Do you have to be really social/outgoing to enjoy working for Disney?

[deadtoaster2]

I got to thinking about this today and now I am beginning to question if the CP would even fit me very well. I wouldn't really describe myself as outgoing, but then again I am not really shy either. I kinda like to keep to myself, but I can also be engaging as well. If you had only just met me you might say that I was a quiet person, but anyone who has gotten to know me knows that definitely isn't true.

Basically I am just concerned that the CP might not be a very good fit for me because of the social atmosphere, but that really bums me out because I was really looking forward to applying because I think it would be an amazing experience.

If it helps any, I have gone back and forth from REALLY REALLY wanting to attend the CP, to thinking that maybe I shouldn't. Do you think I might be over analyzing it? I literally change my mind about once a week. lol

Any advise on the matter would be helpful as I have not decided (nor do I really need to decide) for a couple of months.

Has anyone else felt like they were in a similar situation?

Thanks much.

 

[Tiffanova]

I wouldn't consider myself to be extroverted, but I still did the CP and had no problem interacting with guests. I remember being nervous at first but you just get used to it.

 

[MKandy]

I'm also planning on doing the CP in the Spring 09.

I am a very outgoing person and very socialable. BUT, I have also gone through many stages of over-analyzing my situation. I start to think that I'm not going to like it, or that I'm not going to get along with co-cast memebers, roommates, etc.

Everytime I get into one of those moods, I think about how much I love Disney and WDW. I think about how the great "magical" times I've had and how much I want to make those magical moments for someone else.

To me, it sounds like your just over-analyzing this whole thing. I think you'll be fine. Even if your a little shy, you'll learn when to be really outgoing and happy, and when you can be reserved.

I say, GO FOR IT and have a magical day

 

[aly024]

I don't really have much advice but if it helps i can relate becuase i'm the same way deadtoaster. I plan to attend spring 09 as well and i have had that same thought about whether the cp would suit me or not more than once. I think we are just overanalyzing and worrying about it too much. i think everything will be ok and that u should definately do it. its a once in a lifetime opportunity and if u dont u will always wonder what if...

 

[Tiffanova]

Also, if it helps, if you are unhappy with your roommates, they are very accommodating in allowing you to change apartments.
When I started my program, I was in tears at the airport because I wasn't sure if it was the right decision, but 7 months later you had to drag me away! Chances are, you will have a great program and meet many amazing people, fellow CPs and guests alike.

 

[CelebrationNM]

I'm an introverted person, but I've learned to get over it in professional situations and do what needs to be done. I find it easy in the recreation/hospitality/entertainment business because there's a really great energy and vibe and work is FUN so it's easy to get into it.

At work you'll learn about performing your role in the show, and that makes it easier...you just get out of your bubble and perform. That being said, it comes easier to the extroverts...and I'm jealous of that because many of them have more fun with our guests than I do...but I do what I can. Public speaking used to terrify me but I've gotten over that too. I gave a talk to 150 people tonight with nearly zero anxiety. "Everything is hard until it is easy."

Outside of work, you'll be fine too. There are so many CPs; you'll find people that you can get along with. Go for it. If you're nervous, that's okay-- think back on the best moments of your life and you'll see some fear lurking in the shadows...

 

[deadtoaster2]

Thanks guys, that's what I was hoping everybody would say.

And Celebration, that is very true, it seems that almost all good experiences usually had scary beginnings.

If I don't apply I know I will regret it forever, so many opportunities have already come and past that I never took advantage of and I don't want this to be like one of those! I just have to remind myself that being nervous is normal and to just get past it.

Thanks again everybody.

 

[Jules76126]

You dont have to be an outgoing person to enjoy the program. For example my roommate was very quiet, I mean literally for the first month she barely talked to me (although that was okay I talk enough for the both of us). However she loved the cp, loved her job and made a lot of friends. You have to talk to the guests lol whether you are shy or not because they are going to ask a million questions. Plus everyone is generally very friendly and its easy to meet people. Of course it helps if you are social but it can work just as well if your not. I loved my program a ton and plan to go back this spring. Just have fun, dont stress out too much, and enjoy it. It will go by so fast and then you will be like what I have to leave already?

 

[thejackattack21]

It seems like you're more concerned about making friends and interacting with your fellow CPs then you are with being able to interact with guests on the job. If that's the case, then you'll be fine. I'm also very quiet at first. I tend to be the kind of person who has a few close friends and some acquaintances, and I made both of those on my CP. I did not go out very much, but I certainly wasn't shunned, and was always able to find people to hang out with when I wanted to; at the same time, I did spend a lot of time alone, and had lots of fun that way too. If you enjoy the work and have a good attitude, everything else will fall into place. You should definitely apply.

 

[Joanna71985]

I got to thinking about this today and now I am beginning to question if the CP would even fit me very well. I wouldn't really describe myself as outgoing, but then again I am not really shy either. I kinda like to keep to myself, but I can also be engaging as well. If you had only just met me you might say that I was a quiet person, but anyone who has gotten to know me knows that definitely isn't true.

Basically I am just concerned that the CP might not be a very good fit for me because of the social atmosphere, but that really bums me out because I was really looking forward to applying because I think it would be an amazing experience.

If it helps any, I have gone back and forth from REALLY REALLY wanting to attend the CP, to thinking that maybe I shouldn't. Do you think I might be over analyzing it? I literally change my mind about once a week. lol

Any advise on the matter would be helpful as I have not decided (nor do I really need to decide) for a couple of months.

Has anyone else felt like they were in a similar situation?

Thanks much.

Yes. I was very shy my first CP, and had issues with making friends (but also had issues at work). Thanks to my managers, I was able to get through those problems. And I was able to make friends (many of whom I still see down here). Good luck!

 

[disneychickforever]

I'm very shy at first, especially when I'm nervous, but I absolutely loved my CP. It helped me get over some of my shyness also, so it might help you the same way.

When I started my CP, I was driving from POP to Vista Way, and I was crying so much, I somehow ended up on the turnpike or some highway (which I HATE to drive on) and freaked out more. I had to leave my program after a month because of a personal injury (I'm clutzier than Goofy and screwed up my knee), and I regret it everyday. I hope to one day work for Disney full-time now.

My one month at my CP changed my future. I use to be an Education major, but I decided after my CP I'd be much happier in Hospitality. And I don't regret that choice.

I say go for it, it'll be the best thing you've ever done

Just remember, you will be worked. Some people go on the CP expecting to always be playing in the park, and that is NOT the case. It's still a good time though

 

[WhateverLolaWants]

You will make friends, don't worry. Barely anyone knows each other and you're almost "forced" to make friends. If someone invites you to do something, accept the invitation even if it doesn't sound too interesting to you or if you're too tired from work. Get a little out of your comfort zone. If you know someone's birthday is coming up at work, see if a bunch of your coworkers want to take out the birthday person for dinner. Just do the program, I'm 99.5% sure you won't regret it.