1. Trying different locations
I was lucky enough that I ended up with a Merchandise role. Being in merchandise you are able to switch locations and work pretty much anywhere you want within all four parks. My home location was World of Disney. I decided to stay there my whole program so that my leaders and the higher ups will get to know me. This actually was beneficial because I was able to get a great recommendation from one of my leaders which has helped me get the job that I have today.
But I do wish that I switched around so I can get to know more people and learn from other leaders as well as my own home locations.
2. Disney College Program Events
I never went to any of these!!! I am so sad to say that. The reason why you go to the CP is to do the events and attend classes. I decided to work instead. I really should have done that and if I had talked to my leaders I am sure they would have given me the opportunity to go so make sure you get a chance to attend one of these events because you sure do not want to miss out!
3. Spreading magic off the clock
As a cast member you sometimes get gifts from guests saying thank you for all your hard work that you have done to create magic for me. It is really an amazing feeling when a guest gives you that special magical moment because it shows that you are doing your job right. As a CP I wish I would have taken the time to say thank you for those who are working today. I knew what it was like backstage. But now, as a guest I am going to make sure that we spread the magic to the cast members too!
4. VoluntEars
As a CP you get the chance to volunteer around the community and you have set aside hours to do that if you want. I had many opportunities to do this because I was there doing the hurricane season and for some reason I just didn't have "time" or I didn't want to wake up at 5 am that next morning when I was already working the closing shift at World of Disney. If you ever have the chance to volunteer with Disney do IT! It will really help your resume and you get to experience more magic off the clock as well.
5. Attend Disney University
There are many things you can do at DU and one of things is attending classes. You can take things like Disney History, Disney marketing, Disney animation etc... I went to two classes of Disney History and I thought it was a waste of time. I should have stayed. Some of the guest speakers that came worked in the Marketing department. No matter what classes you attend some of the instructors could be your recruiter, your co-worker and maybe your boss! So, go!! It will only help you!
6. Take as many Pictures or Video as you can!
So, since I have this blog, my YouTube Channel, my Instagram I take tons of video and pictures. I love every single picture and every single memory I make and that I can look back on. I am glad that I am a video junkie. Yes, I say video because I love VLOGGING however, my pictures are lacking. I wish I took more pictures on the CP then video because those last longer and I don't have to watch them. lol Yes, I am lazy. So, Take as many pictures don't be scared vlogging either do it and you wont regret it.
7. Don't spend to much on Merch!
I am preaching to the choir when I talk about spending habits. I personally need to be better and I am trying. You know when you go to the parks and you see that cute pin you want? Or the Popcorn bucket but it costs more than you eat out? Dude, don't do it. Don't spend something that is more than your average meal. Unless it's a shirt. Those little items will get lost or you'll forget about them. So, promise me don't spend! And then you'll come back with enough money to pay for tuition or housing.
Last but not least!!
8. Spend more time with Roommates
I could write a whole other blog post about this. But, I am not going to.. Me and my roommates didn't really get along. Actually, none of us liked each other. I always thought it was because we all had different roles so that meant different hours but, in reality we didn't like each other. I really regret not taking the time to get to know them. Get to know your roommates!! They know what you are going through and they could be a great source.
I hope you guys have enjoyed this blog post!! I have also made this into a YouTube video so if you'd much rather watch it then read it click on the video below and you can do just that!!
XoXo
McKenzie


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