From Trainee to Cast Member

After Traditions is Training! What your exact training will be like completely depends on your location, role, and segment of the company. I will do two generic ones though (some based on my own experience) of a corporate PI, general MI, and a general DCP one as well to give you an idea of what to expect. 

Disney College Program
Much like the Disney PI and MI what you do during training will depend on your specific role, but I will start out by saying you lifeguard’s have an extra step. If you happen to be in the lifeguard role prior to even starting your property orientation you will have to complete a swim test (twice) and Ellis training. The first will happen shortly after you arrive usually on the check-in day or the day after. For everyone else your first training with Disney is typically your themed property orientation (Aloha Day, Grand Difference, Our Town –yup these are just a few), but some of you might have OJT first which is fine. However most do not so on property orientation day it will typically be about 4 hours, and consist of information you are going to actually need to know. Usually it consist of learning about amenities, restaurants, attractions, parade times, fireworks, building locations, pool locations, areas nearby, methods of transportation, and etc. You will also have a walking tour of guest and non-guest areas to get a feel of where everything is on that particular property. During your OJT you will be with a trainer (you do not always have the same one) who will teach you basically everything you need to know, or what they think you need to know about doing your job. This will consist of about 4 days of training, and on the final day you will have an assessment which yes you do need to pass. After you pass the assessment (which is also not hard) you will have a talk with one of your managers about expectations and what not, and then be signed off as finally earning your ears.  

Disney Professional Internship 
Corporate: On the first day of training it will usually consist of starting off by taking a tour of the building (for me it was Team Disney), then taking a tour of your floor, and of course the cubicles (yup gotta love those). You may also go to see some of the buildings nearby as well that you might need to know for your job. You might also go out to lunch with the team you will be working with (at WDW usually lunch is at a resort restaurant), and then you will be taking more tours. For some roles you may take a tour of the convention centers / hotels on the resort property as well as other event location. For those of you who do not do that the rest of the mornings there will usually be filled with training classes where you will learn to use all of the programs needed for your role. 

Theme Park/Resorts: You will have a themed property orientation regardless of your role you will take a 3-4 hour class before beginning on-the-job training (OJT). During this course you will learn all your area has to offer (yes I mean everything…) from activities, amenities, events, and etc. You will also take a lovely walking tour of the entire area of both guest and non-guest areas. After that you will have you OJT, which usually consist of about 4 days. What you are trained on depends on your specific role, but it will be skills needed to do your everyday work. At the end of the training you will have to complete an assessment (I promise it is not hard), and then have a meeting about expectations with a manager. Then you finally get to stop earning those ears, and become a regular non-trainee cast member.  

I want to be clear this was left general on purpose, but if you want a more specific look into what check-in day will look like in my next F.A.Q. post I will attach some other helpful blogs that go into more specific internships as well. 

I wish I could say general excitement since you are actually working for this first time at Disney as a Cast Member, but really it is just helping you get into the swing of things. The first day when you are on your own it finally sets in you are working for Disney, and this is going to be your home for the next 6 months to a year. 

Step Into the Magic: Traditions

For the time has come to take your places, and finally become apart of the magic that is The Walt Disney Company. You guessed it Traditions! Where you officially become apart of the magic by becoming a Disney Cast Member. I will break down this down into California and Florida now keep in mind California will vary depending on your role within the company. 

Let’s start with the basics first what is Traditions?

Well it is an overview of the company, and particular your specific area of the company (Studios, Disneyland, WDW, and etc.). This orientation is for the company, and each of you will have a specific orientation later pertaining to your actual roles. As I stated this is where you become an official Disney Cast Member, and will receive your infamous blue ID (if you are a third party vendor it will be green). For those wondering what is so special about the blue ID besides your going to need it, well until you get your magical main gate it will get you free entrance into the parks.


Traditions: Florida

• Dress is business professional
• Bring your program guide
• Show up on-time
• Eat something before Traditions can be long
• Speaking of long Traditions can be a few hours long

Traditions is split up into two start times so some of your roommates may have it bright and early in the morning, and others will have it later in the afternoon. First things first though wear Disney Look business professional attire I know people who have been sent back to the apartments for not wearing the right attire. Alright, past the boring warning you are going to be bused into to Traditions, and those who want to drive can (although I do not suggest it if you do not know where it is). When you get there you will be lined up, then broken down into groups (they are random), and then shuffled into the cafeteria. Prior to entering the actual Traditions room you will basically play Disney trivia in the cafeteria where you can win little Disney figurines. After that each group will be sent into their rooms where Traditions will begin, and now so will I.

The first part of Traditions is very boring (trust me) it is going over computer modules, company procedure, and safety in case of fire or whatever else happens. I know more of you will be focused on what is inside the giant red box with a huge bow –do not worry I will get there.  

Now the next part is where if you are super emotional (like the girl who sat next to me) it is a magical, sappy, inspirational video about The Walt Disney Company, and working for them. Also, I know people are going to ask so I will say it now –yes those are all 100% real Cast Members. After the video they are going to give you more information about The Walt Disney Company, and then you are going to be allowed to take a short break.

When you come back you are going to be allowed to open those giant red boxes with the bows to find our very own free set of Mickey Mouse ears. Then you will move on to talk about the Disney “Four Keys” which are Safety, Courtesy, Show, and Efficiency in that order. If you are confused about it now do not worry those four concepts will be imbedded into your brain for life even after you leave Disney.

This section will be followed by another inspirational video this time by the CEO Robert Iger, Chief Executives of Parks and Resorts, CFO, and etc. (basically a bunch of executives most of you won’t remember –however I am after Iger’s job lol one day!) Now I promise you though this next part is worth everything trust me! You will leave the Disney University building and head over to West Clock to take a bus to none other then the Magic Kingdom! You will arrive at the sketch location known as the Utilidors (aka the tunnel system), and there are no pictures allowed down here since it is ‘backstage’. I promise for those wondering they are not amazing trust me the second floor of Magic Kingdom is much better then the first floor. You will follow the tunnel down a few corridors, and eventually make your way to the second floor to walk onto Main Street USA (and yes you will be the most overdressed people there). If you do not remember why you decided to take this internship you will remember in that moment when you look up to see Cinderella’s Castle.

The Magic Kingdom tour is short lived though, and you will all head back to Disney University next to West Clock (for those who haven’t quite got it yet West Clock is the Magic Kingdom parking lot for Cast Members). Your surprises yet are not quite over for the day just when you thought Mickey Ears and the Magic Kingdom in the same day was not enough you will get on more surprise by none other then the Mouse himself –Mickey! Who happened to bring along a wonderful gift, which are your name tags! Mickey leaves and the Traditions Cast Members make a graduation type ceremony to receive your name tags (also if your name was spelled wrong like mine –no worries you can order another from costuming for 5 dollars). Then you get your blue IDs then you are pretty much done for the day (if your blue ID does not come during Traditions you cannot get into the park, since they are still waiting on the background check). As for everyone else enjoy the rest of your day in the parks, since you are officially a Disney Cast Member!

Fair Warning! While some of you will be done with Traditions for the day others will not be so lucky to leave Disney University just yet. Some of you will have to be there for your specific job line orientation, and that will make it an hour or so longer.

*Now I know this question will arise so I will put it here: Once you have your Blue ID in hand to enter a park you will need to see a Guest Relations cast member, since Main Gates are the only ones that work like passes –which you do not have.


Traditions: California 

• Dress is business professional
• Bring your program guide
• Show up on-time
• Eat something before Traditions can be long
• Speaking of long Traditions can be a few hours long

Traditions is split up into two start times so some of your roommates may have it bright and early in the morning, and others will have it later in the afternoon. First things first though wear Disney Look business professional attire I know people who have been sent back to the apartments for not wearing the right attire. When you get there you will be lined up, then broken down into groups (they are random), and then shuffled into the room. Prior to entering the actual Traditions room you will basically play Disney trivia in the room where you can win little Disney figurines. After that each group will be sent into their rooms where Traditions will begin, and now so will I.

The first part of Traditions is very boring (trust me) it is going over computer modules, company procedure, and safety in case of fire or whatever else happens. I know more of you will be focused on what is inside the giant red box with a huge bow –do not worry I will get there. 

Now the next part is where if you are super emotional (like the girl who sat next to me) it is a magical, sappy, inspirational video about The Walt Disney Company, and working for them. Also, I know people are going to ask so I will say it now –yes those are all 100% real Cast Members. After the video they are going to give you more information about The Walt Disney Company, and then you are going to be allowed to take a short break.

When you come back you are going to be allowed to open those giant red boxes with the bows to find our very own free set of Mickey Mouse ears. Then you will move on to talk about the Disney “Four Keys” which are Safety, Courtesy, Show, and Efficiency in that order. If you are confused about it now do not worry those four concepts will be imbedded into your brain for life even after you leave Disney.

This section will be followed by another inspirational video this time by the CEO Robert Iger, Chief Executives of Parks and Resorts, CFO, and etc. (basically a bunch of executives most of you won’t remember –however I am after Iger’s job lol one day!) Now I promise you though this next part is worth everything trust me! You will leave Traditions, and will head over to Disneyland to get a walking tour. Yup, if you do not remember why you chose Disneyland over Walt Disney World the second you walk into the park you will remember why.

The Disneyland Park tour is short lived though, and you will head back to the auditorium where you will finish the rest of Traditions.. Your surprises yet are not quite over for the day just when you thought Mickey Ears and the Disneyland Park in the same day was not enough you will get on more surprise by none other then the Mouse himself –Mickey! Who happened to bring along a wonderful gift, which are your name tags! Mickey leaves and the Traditions Cast Members make a graduation type ceremony to receive your name tags (also if your name was spelled wrong like mine –no worries you can order another from costuming for 5 dollars). Then you get your blue IDs then you are pretty much done for the day (if your blue ID does not come during Traditions you cannot get into the park, since they are still waiting on the background check). As for everyone else enjoy the rest of your day in the parks, since you are officially a Disney Cast Member!

Fair Warning! While some of you will be done with Traditions for the day others will not be so lucky to leave Disney University just yet. Some of you will have to be there for your specific job line orientation, and that will make it an hour or so longer.

*Now I know this question will arise so I will put it here: Once you have your Blue ID in hand to enter a park you will need to see a Guest Relations cast member, since Main Gates are the only ones that work like passes –which you do not have.

**Also once you have your main gate your Blue ID will no longer work for park admission you must use your main gate from that point on.

The New Adventures of Arrival: Check-In

The time has come you have the offer, you filled out the pre-arrival paperwork, and you are on your way to Disney. Here is what to expect on in the famous check-in day! I will do this in two sections the first being for the Disney College Program and the second for the Professional Internship Program. 

Disney College Program: Florida

Updated for 2016 and beyond check-in for Walt Disney World you will now receive an itinerary a few days prior to arrival with your information. It will include your check-in time and location, Casting time, housing meeting, Traditions, and drug test as well if needed for your role. 

When you check-in now it is at whichever complex you will be living in, so for example if you live in Chatham you will not check-in there instead of everyone going to Vista Way. As a note for anyone who is not living in housing you will check-in at Patterson Court, and for extenders of the DCP your check-in is a Vista Way. 

As I said check-in for WDW is now whatever complex you are living at, and is now shorter than it used to be so expect it to take about 10-30 minutes. Here is what you can expect to do when you check-in at your complex.

• Turn in forms/ fill-out forms if you did not fill them out online prior
• You will be given more forms (I know Disney and their paperwork)
• Receive pre-program stuff (aka purple/blue bag, card holder, snacks, laundry supplies)
• You will also receive a planner your specific work location
• You will find out your apartment number and be given your key
• You will get a photo ID taken
• Must be in Disney Look from the shoulders up

As a note: if you have family or friends that are not doing the DCP, and came to help you move that is 100% fine if they come to check-in with you. However, they will be waiting in the waiting area for them typically somewhere near the front office. 

Now housing meetings are typically going to be the first or second day, and yes they are required to attend so do not miss it. As for Casting it will also be the first or second day, and there are buses specifically for CPs going to Casting. 

This is what happens at Casting:

• You are going to get shuffled into a hallway to wait for a room to fill out paperwork (yup I know more paperwork)
• Receive your training schedule for your specific location
• Go over Disney Look and any questions you have
• Fill out more paperwork (I know never-ending)
• You are going to be fingerprinted
• Then you get shuffled into another room to listening to a Casting recruiter talk to the group

*Lifeguards: just as an fair warning you might have to take a swim test on the first day you arrive as well, and if not on the first day then it will be prior to having your training start.

I know this process sounds boring, but you cannot start working without it. The process can take anywhere from 2-3 hours, so I suggest you be prepared for it to take up most of your day. I feel I also want to add since someone brought it up no you cannot go to the parks until after you receive your blue ID at Traditions.

Disney College Program: California

I know finding information on the California program can be hard, so I will include it here as well although it is going to be similar to the DCP in Florida. To be clear Anaheim has set times, much like Florida, so do not show up before you time. Check-in times range from 8:00am-11:00am at Carnegie Plaza. When you arrive for check-in you will go to Carnegie Plaza where you will head upstairs to start the process.

• Turn in forms/ fill-out forms if you did not fill them out online prior
• You will be given more forms (I know Disney and their paperwork)
• Receive pre-program stuff (aka purple/blue bag, card holder, snacks, laundry supplies)
• You will also receive a planner with your Traditions schedule, and if you turn it around it will have your work location. It also has your time for Casting later that day as well.
• You will find out your apartment and be given your key (also where to park)
• You will get a photo ID taken
• Must be in Disney Look from the shoulders up

***I feel like this is important unlike the DCP in Florida in California you are signing a lease here, and will be asked to make payments up front –you do not have to. However, if you term yourself or leave for whatever reason you are still responsible for paying rent for the term of the lease.

Then much like the DCP you will have a chance to see your apartment (again aka claim your bed), and then of course do the infamous Casting trip. I will save you the bore of scrolling back up to the DCP in Florida, and I will just copy and paste since it is the same process.  

This is what happens at Casting:

• You are going to get shuffled into a hallway to wait for a room to fill out paperwork (yup I know more paperwork)
• You are going to go to another room to fill out more paperwork (I know never-ending)
• You are going to be fingerprinted
• Then you get shuffled into another room to listening to a Casting recruiter talk to the group

I know this process sounds boring, but you cannot start working without it. The process can take anywhere from 2-3 hours, so I suggest you be prepared for it to take up most of your day. I feel I also want to add since someone brought it up no you cannot go to the parks until after you receive your blue ID at Traditions.  There is also going to be a mandatory housing meeting within your first few days that yes I said mandatory, so you are required to show up to it.

Disney Professional Internship: Florida

I want to be clear upfront that this day is long, and it is going to be different for everyone. So I will try to keep this as general as possible, but note as stated this day varies depending on your role.

If you are not living in housing you can ignore this part. The first thing in the morning is the housing meeting, which is at Vista Way, and there you will hand over your DORM paperwork, and get a housing packet which has the your apartment assignment. You will also get a photo taken for your housing ID, which you 100% will not use unless you go to housing events. You will sign some more paperwork, and be on your way. For those wondering why there are no work locations given it is because PIs/MIs already know their work location at this point.  

Casting Check-In is the step everyone has to go through, and this will depend on your schedule. Some will be able to go right to their apartment after Vista, and others will have to go to Casting. You will be shoved down the same hallway that the DCP interns are shuffled into, and wait to speak with someone from Casting. You will get handed a folder with some paperwork, which one of those is your Traditions information, and the other is HUB information. Then you sign some more paperwork, go over your I-9s, and then get fingerprinted. Then you will get put into a room where they will go over Disney Look, and then be sent on your merry way.

You will have time to move in to your apartment for a bit before the next part, which varies from role to role. Most of you will be done with your check-in/casting day at this point, but if you happen to be in Animal Programs you will have to attend a meeting that night*. Otherwise, you are free to head back to your apartment unpack, buy groceries, and meet your roommates.

Important Information: You will notice I do not have any information listed for NY, CA, or CT this is due to there being no housing. In NY and CT the process is going to be very different from anything, and you will get a grasp of that when you are in the process of interviewing. As for CA the process is going to be very similar to the DCP in California without any of the housing, since of course there is no PI housing in CA. However, in California Traditions will be similar to the next post I will go over.

Here are some tips for Check-In Day and Casting:

• Wear something comfortable it is going to be a long day there is a lot of walking, standing outside, and just plain standin
• Be presentable follow the Disney Look Guidelines – now to be clear no you do not have to wear business casual
• To give you an idea of what I wore I came in converse, jeans, basic plain t-shirt, and my Kappa baseball cap. For my PI check-in I wore flats, jeans, and a button down portofino shirt.
• Do not get overwhelmed I know this is your first ‘Disney day’ but calm down trust me it is stressful, you are going to be disappointed about your work location, and upset about your apartment not being the ‘renovated’ one. For now just be excited you are at Disney after all remember?
• Do not be disappointed –trust me for my first DCP I was not happy at all I did not get the area I wanted, but trust me I made the best of friends where I worked. Even though I did not get what I wanted I would not have changed it for anything. Trust me for those who did not get Magic Kingdom –you’ll thank yourself when you do not work the 24 hour day
• As a note Resorts are not that bad so don't stress if you are upset you didn't get a park. As someone who worked both a park and a resort I personally preferred my resort to the parks
• Drink lots of water –Florida and California are warm, and you are going to be outside in non-air conditioning for most of the day
• Do not forget to eat something the process takes a while, and do not be like me starving while still have 2 hours left at Casting
• Do not forget your paperwork or government identifications: Forgetting these items can hold up your entire process, and you do not want to be that person that has too go to the SS office due to not bringing yours.
• Also if you have a lamanted SS card they will not accept it same for copies of your SS card they want the original
• Government IDs: Passport, Drivers License, Stated ID, Social Security Card, Birth Certificate
• Direct deposit is set up online on the hub, but if you feel the need bring a blank voided check (never hurts)
• If you do not live in Disney housing yes you still have too go to check-in for the DCP since that is where you are given your off property ID, paperwork, and work location
• If you are a PI and living off Disney housing you do not need to go to the check-in, since you already know your work location. However, you will still need to go to Casting as you cannot go to Traditions without it
• If you have any questions prior to starting as Casting they are there to help you out, so ask away!

*For animal programs I did not complete this internship, but here is a link to a former Cast Member who did: http://lifeanchoredinhope.blogspot.com/2014/06/check-in-day.html

**This has been updated as of May 2016 to include new information about the Florida DCP arrivals

Who's That Knocking At The House of Mouse: The Offer

I know at this point you have been sitting there in the never-ending waiting game with Disney –trust me everyone who has applied has been there. However, there is a light at the end of that never-ending tunnel for those lucky enough to receive one –the time has come for the offer!

First things first I am aware I have said this before in previous posts, but I want to say it again just in case you missed it. The offer is going to be a verbal one first, and you will know when you get it since it is labeled ‘brief phone call’ that you will schedule. From there you will get a phone call from a lovely Disney Cast Member (remember I brought up Randy, well if you are alumni enjoy the call from him). After you finish the brief phone call where you verbally accept the offer you will then receive an email with the written offer. The written offer is going to have the same information that was given over the phone.

I guess I should go over some basic offer information although I will say the offer is very straightforward…

For those choosing to live outside of housing this offer can be used as proof of income for apartments in Florida (majority apartments are used to interns)

• The pay/salary on the paper is the one they are offering you there is no negotiating
• If you choose to reject the offer it will not hurt your chances if you choose to apply again in the future
• Much like the DCP if you choose to live in housing the fees are non-refundable, so be sure you want to before deciding
• Yes, I promise this is the 100% last step in the application process everything else after is dotting the I’s & crossing the T’s

If by chance you receive multiple offers you are given the same 24-78 hour period to accept or reject the offer (also you cannot change your mind once you give the first one up –decided carefully)

Most importantly Congrats! You are going to work for Disney –enjoy this moment. Best of luck and plenty of pixie dust on your journey ahead.  

Now Give Me the Secret of the FAQ

Here it is finally the shortened version of all the questions you want answered that is right –the FAQ post is here! For those that read the blog these will be some repeated questions I have already answered, but I figured it was time to do a cheat sheet for those to lazy to read the actual postings.

When do applications drop?
Spring: August/September
Fall: January/February
Summer DCP (Alumni): Sign up with the Disney Alumni Association for emails the app does not drop every year, and when it does the timing is not the same as the DCP regular Fall app.
Summer PI: Most will drop with Fall but some drop before so always check.

When do the programs begin?
Spring advantage: January/February through August
Spring: January through May
Spring PI: January through June
Fall advantage: May/June through January
Fall: August through September
Fall PI: June through January

What are the requirements to apply?
First and foremost always read the job description especially since they changed some requirements in the 2016 rounds. However, the basic requirements are as followed…
Enrolled in college/ or have graduated within the past 6 months
18 years of age and older
Eligible to work in the United States

I need to contact someone from recruiting, how do I do that?
Email PI: wdpr.professional.interns@disney.com
Email CP FL: wdw.college.recruiting@disney.com
Email CP DL: dlr.college.recruiting@disney.com
Phone Number for Casting California: (800) 766 - 0888
Phone Number for Casting Florida: (844) 559 – 2278

What do the stages of the dashboard mean?
Submission: Your application has been received
In Progress (IP): Someone from Casting has opened/reviewed your application
No Longer in Consideration (NLIC): Unfortunately your PI process is over for this application
Interview Stage (IS):  This appears two-four times once for the phone screening, again for the second interview, if the role requires it again for the third interview, and of course for the offer.
Post-Interview Stage: This only appears sometimes, but it comes after any interview.
Offer Stage: Congrats! It is finally over you have received the ‘brief phone call’ and have been given your written offer in email
Post-Offer Stage: The dashboard generally moves here when it is time to fill out employment information such as I-9’s and DORMS

Are interns hired on a rolling basis?
No, unlike other media companies, like Fox and Paramount, Disney does not hire interns on a rolling basis. They hire their interns in sections: Fall, Summer, Spring, so once an application closes it will not appear until the next round (exception of summer they only appear in Summer -although they have Fall/Spring equivalents). Keep in mind some internship applications only appear in certain sections for example there are some that only are available in Fall. 

I failed the Web Based Interview, now what?
Well sorry about failing the web-based interview (WBI), but really nothing comes after that since you will be NLICed. You are also not going to be able to apply for another DCP again for 6 months, so if you fail summer that means no fall applications.

Can I argue my NLIC status?
If you feel you were NLICed due to a technical problem such as entering your social security number wrong, answering you were not eligible for work in the United States, and similar application issues you can contact Casting to let them know about the mistake (this type of NLIC comes right after turning in the application). Now for candidates who did not have application errors, no you are unfortunately out of the running for this for whatever reason.

Why was I NLICed?
Again as stated above sometimes it is a legitimate technical problem, but for everyone else who did not have one it could be anything. Yes, I mean anything from answering a questionnaire problem wrong (this is not the same as technical problems) a prime example is if they ask for SAP experience, and you answer no –then you are probably going to be NLICed –this is just an example. As for applicants who made it past submission it could be a recruiter felt you did not meet the qualifications for the application you applied for, not answering the question fully during the phone screening, not being able to answer technical questions during the video interview, or simply losing the position to a stronger candidate. The list is long as for reasons they did not choose you, but hang in there almost no one gets an internship with Disney on their first try.

How long is the interview?
DCP Phone Screen: Expect it to last about 30 minutes
PI Phone Screen: Generally range from about 12-20 minutes
PI Second Video Interview/Panel/In-Person: Range from about 30-40 minutes
PI Offer: Expect it to be super brief generally about 5 minutes

How many interns are taken for (insert role)?
This really depends on the particular role, but here are some numbers from other interns.

Guest Relations: Generally around 30 interns*
Magic Kingdom: 10-15
Epcot: 5-7
Animal Kingdom: 2-3
Hollywood Studios: 4-5
Disney Springs: 4-6 interns

Management Interns: Generally around 120 interns*
Food & Beverage: Usually around 20
F&B Quick Service: 10-12
F&B Outdoor Vendor: 3-5
F&B Full-Service: 15-17
Merchandise: Usually around 15-25 interns
Park Operations: Generally around 20 interns
Attractions: 6-8
Custodial: 5-6
Entertainment: 6-8
Lodging: Generally around 15 interns
Recreation: 4-6
Housekeeping: 10-13
Front Desk: 10-14
Custodial: 5-6
Catering: 6-7
Culinary: 1-2
Transportation: 1-2
Animal Science/Environment: Generally around 3 interns
ESPN:  Generally 1 intern

Animal Science/Programs Interns*
Education presenter: Usually around 29 interns
Associate: Generally around 5 interns
Living Seas: 3
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 2
Chemistry: 3 interns

As for everyone else internship positions available truly vary some positions have only one role open while others have plenty of openings. (I will keep updating though as I find out how many interns each department has –if you know any not here please feel free to comment).

What factors do they look at for potential candidates?
For the DCP basically can you do a minimum wage job is what they are looking for, but for you PI/MI candidate it is not going to be that simple. Experience is basically what it comes down to what they are looking for, and I am not talking about maybe if you swing it right it could count as experience -actual experience. They are looking for a solid foundational understanding in the area you are applying, so for example if you are applying to finance yet you have never interned in finance chances are you are not going to get it. They want internships, volunteering, work, and classroom experience that stands out in your resume when you apply for an internship. Disney internships in general are very competitive, and the less experience you have the more likely you are hurting your chances of getting an offer. This means for you sophomores/juniors you are going to have to really show off your skills as you are competing with seniors, post-grads, and MBAs.

Are only undergraduates able to apply to the programs?
Nope! As stated above Disney allows MBA and other graduate students to apply for internships as well (unless stated on the actual application) this does not just include PIs and MIs they are also able to apply to the DCP as well.

How competitive are the Disney Internship Programs?
Very, very, very competitive very few are actually given offers on their first try most wind up applying 2-3 times before ever receiving an offer or coming close to one. There are thousands of applicants who want to work for Disney, and they have few positions to offer at their company. That means even if you go in felling 100% qualified you could still wind up empty handed, and it is not on you I want to make that 100% clear -sometimes you just lose to someone with more experience. There is not much you can do about it except try again (it took me 3 times to get my first offer), and keep building up that experience to help you in the future. I will also say if for some reason you do get an offer then decide to decline (as stated in a later question) it will not hurt your chances, but due to the competitive nature of these programs even if you apply to that exact same internship again there is no guarantee of an offer coming again.

Do I have to/should I write a cover letter?
This here is 100% straight forward, and I cannot stress this enough since it comes up a lot during the PI Twitter sessions. Cover letters are not required, and actually should not be written unless the job application says otherwise. It is not uncommon for it to not even have it be read by a recruiter, so spend more time on your resume then anything else.

I want to update my resume will a recruiter /hiring manager see it?
A little complex, but I will try to answer this the best that I can without confusing anyone. A recruiter can see everything on your dashboard, and that includes even things you deleted (found that out once when they found a super old resume). Now I will say I do not suggest editing your resume once you apply, since in theory it should be perfected before you apply. However, if you do I suggest doing it before the phone interview labeled as updated. Now I know why before the phone interview? Simply because the recruiter passes on your information to the hiring manager, and if you turn it in after there is a chance the hiring manager may never see the updated resume. Hiring managers typically only read the resume attached to the application unless Casting has been told otherwise, or of course you bring it for an in-person interview. 

Are all interviews conducted over the phone?
For the DCP yes all interviews are conducted over the phone -no exceptions, and for the PIs the initial phone screening is also conducted over the phone (as suggested by the name). The second/third interviews this is where it varies for the majority if you it will be a video or phone interview (some departments let you choose), but for some roles (MIs is typically the only role to always offer the option) you will also have the option to choose in-person for your second/third interview. This option will be available after you schedule the interview online a few days after scheduling you will be given a follow up email with the option to choose which method you prefer (i.e. in-person, phone, or video). 

Where should I send thank you cards, or should I send any?
Now I want to be clear sending or not sending a thank you card to Disney has no effect to whether or not you will receive an offer. Also I want to be clear even if you have access to the hub I always suggest sending to the general email (it can be found above) As for why I suggest the general email instead is because there are some recruiters with the same name. For example there is a Christina in California and in Florida who does PI interviews, and you would not want to send it to the wrong one. So, instead just send it to the general email, and let them forward it to who it needs to go to.  For those who are feeling a little more you can send it to a Casting address, but this is a little more difficult since you would need to know which Casting your particular recruiter is at. As for those who do in-person interviews you can always give them to the hiring managers after the interview, drop them off at Casting, or drop them off at Team Disney.

Does being an alumni of the DCP give me an advantage?
No, 100% no being an alumni of the Disney College Program does not give you an advantage over any candidate. The only difference between you and any other candidate who is not alumni is they cannot apply for alumni only internships. As for any advantage in other applications –no the Disney PI process is very different from the DCP. For the PI process they care more about relevant experience in your field then they do anything else, which includes past experience with Disney.

Are most applicants who are accepted alumni?
No, actually majority of the applicants who seem to be accepted have no previous experience with The Walt Disney Company.

During the application process do they check your social media?
Yes, they do recruiters will check LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and etc. I want to make one special note here about Facebook, since it seems a lot of applicants haven’t caught onto to it yet. On the Disney pages (yes even some PI, DCP, and def. the Alumni page) Disney Cast Members are on them, so be 100% careful about what you say they are there.

What does post-interview and interview stage mean? Is it a good sign?
Let me be 100% clear what your page says after the final interview whether it be post-interview or interview stage does not actually determine if an offer will come or not. Rather it is more of a sign did someone remember to change your dashboard (I know I hear it now -seriously?) Yes just because your dashboard goes into post-interview does not mean you will get an offer same for those who are stuck in interview stage. At this point do not overthink the dashboard, but instead focus on that brief phone call that will come that is the best sign of an offer -you know since that is the offer.

What is a drop-down? Is this a good sign?
A drop-down on the old dashboard was a literal drop-down now it looks a little more like the picture below. As for what is is a drop-down is a more specific role you are being considered for then the umbrella one you applied for -typically alumni-only get drop-downs. So for example if you applied for alumni-only operations then you could get Magic Kingdom Project Support as a possible drop-down. The drop-down is a still in the area you applied for, but a more specific area then the generic operations/HR/ and etc. you applied for. (Also if you are wondering about alumni-only please go to the specific post) As for is it a good sign or not I will say a drop-down is a good sign I want to be careful saying this though as a drop-down is a good sign (as stated earlier), but it does not mean everyone who received a drop-down will get an offer. For those wondering I will also add if you receive multiple drop-downs Disney decides which one is the best fit for you -not you.

My recruiter told me I would hear by (insert date)?
This answer is going to have two sections:
DCP: the date they told you is date you should hear back by with little exception, since they have a set deadline every round.
PI: while the date they told you may seem pretty accurate honestly there is no deadline like the DCP offers can roll out whenever departments get around to them. In the past Alumni, MIs, and Animal Program offers roll out first then slowly other departments begin rolling out their offers as well. However, for you PIs even after offers start rolling out and seemed to have stop it is not unheard of to get a late offer. This is especially the case if another intern declines the offer, or accepts one from another department instead. So, while some like to say it is not over until the NLIC honestly it is not over until about a week prior to the actual start date. 

What is the rule for 6 months after graduation?
The general rule is you have to apply within 6 months after graduating, and they do go by your graduation date not the month. So if you graduated on May 13, 2016 you cannot apply to any applications after November 13, 2016, since you are officially past the mark of 6 months. However, for PI applications (DCP follows general rule) I always suggest reading each individual application as each one requires something different. Some applications follow the general rule of within 6 months you just have to apply, and others follow the rule where you have to start within the 6 month graduation. So, if if follows that you rule saying again you graduated May 13, 2016 you have to have a PI that starts prior to November 13, 2016. For most that is not an issue however keep in mind some PIs have start dates in November. Some applications prefer that you finish the application process prior to the 6 month period, but these ones are a bit more difficult to find -in general I noticed these ask that you be in school prior to the start of your PI. Which, brings me to the last one if an application asks that you are enrolled in school prior to the start date (January of June typically) then you are unable to apply as a post-grad unless the end of your semester lines up with the start dates of the PIs (typically I noticed this is engineering/imagineering). I will say there is another way around this as well for most post-grads this might be useful. PIs are very difficult to get on the first try, and sometimes people settle for a CP program -I always suggest take it, and here is why. If you are a post-grad and accept an internship (PI or DCP but typically it is DCP) the 6 month rule no longer applies once you start (hang in there I know you are confused) you are allowed to be an intern for one year, so you can apply again the next round as the DCP/PI internship counts as an extension of school almost. However, once the year is over you are unable to be an intern again until you return to school, but it is a way around the graduation date in case you were wondering. 

I have not moved out of in progress what now?
I am going to be the downer –this is very common, and while they may sound like relieving news its not. Disney has been known to leave candidate forever in progress without giving them an NLIC or moving them onto the next stage of the process. They also do this to candidates that they believe are qualified, but do not want to move forward with them in the process. Sometimes they keep certain candidates as back-ups, so if their first few choices decline they do not have to start over.

What if get more then one offer?
This is happening less and less as of 2016 due to Disney streamlining their offers I will say as of the new system two offers will not come from the same department. Also, if you do receive two offers from separate departments you will be given the same amount of time to accept 24-78 hours, and I will also note they will not come at the same time. So, if you do accepted the second offer after taking the first you will give up the original acceptance, and you cannot change your mind about it.

If I do not like my role for the DCP can I reject it, and still go to auditions?
The DCP offers is much like the PI offer it is a take or leave it kind of deal. So, if you are unhappy you got custodial but still want to go to auditions you are going to have to accept the offer to be eligible to go to auditions.

Can I audition to be a character while on my program?
This is another technical problem there is a strictly DCP audition, but it is at the end of your internship. The audition is for the role for the next round, so you will extend into the role if you get an offer.

Can I apply for a PI while on my college program?
Yes you can apply! This includes you post 6-month graduates as well being a current DCP makes you eligible to apply. For you advantage candidates be very careful that you applying for a PI does not make you an intern for over a calendar year, since then you will automatically be NLICed.

I got lifeguarding for the DCP, but I do now know if I can pass the test?
Tends to be a common question with this role, which first off I suggest you figure out how the hours of lifeguarding are pretty sweet. As for the test there is a deep and shallow water test the deep water is for Yacht and Beach Club as well as the Water Parks, and every other resort will take the shallow water test. What is it? Well it is CPR, swimming (obviously), brick test, treading water (egg beater style –deep water only), VAT training (If you do not know what it is do not worry about it), and water rescues. You are allowed to fail the test, but you will be given another shot to try again. If you cannot seem to pass it they will either move you to shallow (if you are a deep water test taker), attempt to find you another role, or you may just be headed home.

I cannot do Food & Beverage I am allergic to  (insert whatever here)?
Well first off allergies will not get you moved from the role right away especially for example if it is a nut allergy they will just move you to a location you won’t be in contact with any. If it is something harder to simply move you away from then it is possible to change roles, but I will say again it is unlikely.

Are classes required?
For the DCP in Florida no classes are optional, for the DCP in California classes are required, as for the PIs classes are built into your schedules. Speaking of classes I would like to mention MIs cannot take the CP classes -no exceptions; however PIs are able to with the permission of your management although it is very rare they give permission. 

Do I have to live in housing (if available)?
For you DCP applicants if you are under 21, and do not bring your own vehicle you are going to have to live in housing. For anyone over the age of 21 who did bring a vehicle you do not. As for you PI applicants, nope not at all you can live wherever you choose.

I have to back out of my offer can I apply in the future?
Disney understands that life happens, and that means sometimes you have to walk away. Rejecting an offer for the DCP or the PI will not effect any future applications you have with the company.

Do I get to choose my check-in date?
For the DCP yes you will get to choose a check-in date that is available for your role, and as for you PI applicants you do not. The date for PIs is actually given to them in an email, and that is the date you are stuck with.

When do I get my check-in time?
Your specific check-in time will come in an email with your itinerary prior to your arrival date. However, check-in begins at 8:00 am (do not line up earlier than 7:00 am) and no unlike prior to 2014 showing up early gives no advantages for housing preferences. 

What is wellness and non-wellness?
A wellness apartment is going to be an alcohol free environment, and will consist of either A) everyone is under the age of 21 B) Mixture of 21+ and under 21 -the 21+ interns decided to live in an alcohol free environment. A non-wellness apartment is obviously the opposite, which is an apartment that can have alcohol, and consist of A) An entire apartment of 21+ interns. As a note since this has come up before if you are an international student even though the legal drinking age is lower where you are from the U.S. recognizes it as 21+. 

I need time of for (insert reason here) when can I ask?
You cannot ask Disney for anytime off until you receive an offer, but once the offer is received this is really going to vary. If the date you need off if close to your start date I suggest letting Casting know, and for you DCP as of 2014 they need ‘evidence of the reason’ for example if you say you need off for a wedding they want the wedding invitation emailed to them. My suggestion though is to wait until you actually start and have access to the hub. I know personally I was able to get all my days off I asked for, since I put them in the first day I had access to the hub. For you PIs time off is not hard to get when you start just talk to your managers they are pretty relaxed about it.

How long can I be an intern at Disney?
You are allowed to be a Disney intern for one year (yes exactly one year) so if you started May 28th, 2016 then you cannot be an intern beyond May 28th, 2017. They are very strict about this rule, and make no expectations to it so timing is everything. Meaning if you know you want to be an intern for a year, and are starting with the DCP do not apply for Fall Advantage then go for regular Fall. As for is there a way around this rule, technically yes, and here is why I say technically. Disney has a rule where you can separate for 6 weeks from the company (no less again exactly 6 weeks), and you can intern again where none of the time earlier is counted in the academic year -it essentially starts over. Now, you cannot change start dates so this is all about timing some people have made it work especially with the summer gap, but it is difficult if you are jumping into a regular term. 

Can I apply to full-time/part-time/seasonal during my internship?
Yes and no, this answer is going to be different for the PI and DCP. So, let’s start with the less complicated one –the DCP. You can apply for any of those 6 weeks before the end of your program. Now, for you PIs you can apply for roles during your program with the permission of you managers. You will also be given the opportunity to apply for those positions 6 weeks before the end of your internship as well.

Are the benefits/discounts different from PI to CP?
No, the discounts for both are the exact same including the new guest pass set-up (which you will find out more during Traditions) 

Will I get hired for a full-time role in my PI department?
Now I want to be clear Disney does not give out statistics on number of interns they retain after every internship. I want to be clear though from my personal knowledge and experience very few interns were kept on as full-time or even part-time for that matter after their program was completed. Most of those who were able to stay on had roles within the theme parks such as guest relations. So, for you post-grads I would not bank on having a career with Disney after your program. MBA applicants though you happen to be in luck most of the MBA applicants I know were offered positions somewhere within the company as well as JD interns.

Now I by no means have covered every single question simply because I would be writing forever, but these are the ones I see most often so I felt I should address them.