The Disney College Program started in 1981 with just 200 students from 20 schools. These students only worked in one theme park which was the Magic Kingdom. Two years later, there were already 500 students working in Magic Kingdom and EPCOT for a 3 month period during summer, fall and spring season. By 2005, 8,000 students that represent 300 universities have been participating in the program each year.

There are several programs that the Walt Disney Program offers each year. Each program typically last from 5-7 months. Each interested student must be willing to attend an information session personally or through the web that Disney conducts before being considered. The students who are selected will receive an acceptance letter within 3-4 weeks of a phone interview.

Benefits of the Walt Disney Program

The Disney College Program is a unique program that strives to provide students with an opportunity to learn from a combination of work and educational experience. From the program, students can learn work experience from a leader in the entertainment industry. They can create friendships and connections from people all over the globe. They can also enjoy the benefits and privileges of being a part of the Walt Disney cast member include discounts on merchandise, theme park admissions and resort accommodations.

The program is a learning experience for a student because they can obtain the necessary insight into running such a large corporation. They can meet executives and leaders during activities that are hosted by Disney and learn from their experience. Students also enhance their problem solving as well as written and verbal communication in dealing with guests personally, online or through phone. They also are given the choice to take courses and earn college credit from the program. These can be useful as students study management and leadership concepts as well as apply this to the workplace in Disney.