Annie Proctor

The 9 Friends You Will Meet on the Disney College Program

Warning: this post has been known to cause symptoms such as: happy/sad tears, reminiscent thoughts, and the feels.

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Your roommates– You will love them, you will hate them, you will live with them. This relationship can be a rocky road. The DCP means hard work, late hours, and sore muscles. When CPs are at their apartment, most of the time it means they were too tired to go to the park and when a CP is too tired to go to the park they’re probably grumpy.

Be kind to your roommates and be understanding. Assume good intentions. Set boundaries and clarify chores on your first day, no matter how great of friends you are this is necessary to a good DCP.

My roommates and I started out wonderfully. We got along and did everything together. Then, the curse set in. Living in tight quarters brought unforseen consequences and I brought too much stuff to Florida. People yelled about dishes and screamed about communication, but I grew from those struggles. The roommates that were the odd ones out became closer because of those troubles and now we share an unbreakable bond.

Your Internet Friend

Whether you met them before your DCP on the infamous Facebook group or afterward thanks to your roommate’s celebrity-status blog, you’ll always wish you had spent more time getting to know them.

Meeting viewers was one of the most fun parts of my program. I would love it when people would find me at work and talk with me or take pictures. I even got the nickname “famous Annie,” but that was mostly because two people had asked the same leader about me in the span of one week- a rare occurance.

Your character buddy

Whether you’re obsessed with meeting every character, or just one (or two), this friend is one of the best people to go to the parks with because you always want to do the same thing.

If you’re lucky, one day you’ll both dress up or DisneyBound and take all the pictures in the world with your favorite characters.

I met my character buddy while I was deployed to Oaken’s. She loved Woody, and I was kind of a fan of Buzz Lightyear. One night we went to a Toy Story themed CP event, met Woody and Buzz, and the rest is history. From then on, all we did was meet our two favorite toys. To this day we send each other Toy Story news and cute pictures we find online.

Your favorite leader

Disney has great management and leadership. Your location will have a full team of leaders, but there will be one that will be your favorite. They will encourage you and hold you to high standards, but mostly, they will inspire you.

When you go into work and they’re closing, you’ll breathe a sigh of relief because you know that it’s going to be a good day. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself quoting them after you leave. You might call your messy room a “dumpster fire” and tell your class project group, “teamwork makes the dreamwork!”

Your co-worker family

Not one friend, but a family of many. You’ll see many colorful (and some not so colorful) personalities every single day, but you’ll be especially close with a few of them.

My “Mickey’s” family (short for Mickey’s of Hollywood or MOH) was composed of myself, my “sister” (aka the problem child), our two “moms” and our “crazy aunt.” Sure, it was a little childish, but it reflected our relationships. While we were all equals at work, my Disney mom’s would do anything to protect me. They even went as far as to threaten to go after someone who had been spreading rumors about me.

Your Disney grandparents

The DCP can be a scary time. You move away from your entire support system and you don’t have any “grown-ups” to rely on. I was lucky to work with several people that I refer to now as “my Disney grandparents.” They’ll give you life advice and genuinely ask how you’re doing.

I had many Disney grandparents. They taught me so much about life by imparting daily wisdom to me. What’s great about them is that they can build you up but still point out where you can improve.

One of the best Cast Members I have ever met called all the CPs her “kids.” She left my location a little over halfway through my program, but whenever I visited her, she would introduce me as “one of her Mickey’s kids.” By saying that, she really made me feel special, like I was important to her and a part of a family. Before I left, she gave me a bag full of stickers and dozens of celebration buttons.

Your favorite co-worker

You see them everyday. You sing together, vent together, you try to eat together if one of you is stocking and the other’s on register.

You’ll get close enough to the point that you’ll come over when they’re upset and crying. You’ll have dance parties to One Direction and scream whenever Zayn’s part comes up because he left and you’re mad.

When they have to call out sick, you miss them, but you make sure to send them a video of their favorite character wishing them well.

This is one of the hardest goodbyes. I couldn’t hold myself together on our last night. If you haven’t guessed, my favorite co-worker was my sister. We spent the entire year together in Mickey’s and were inseperable most of that time.

Your Double (your twin)

You never know where you’ll meet them, I met mine on the bus from Traditions. We had Operations class together and bonded over our mutual allergy to nuts. We were newbies, anxious to make new friends. We went to DHS together and began to realize how similar we were!

You’re basically the same person. Every sentence that comes out of their mouth sounds like something you’ve thought before. You turn to them for reassurance on tough decisions you’ve made.

I talk to my double weekly, if not daily. Although we didn’t spend our entire program together, we both agree that our friendship is one of the best ones we made during the DCP.

The roommate/best friend/soulmate

They’re different than you, but also the same. They’re honest and sometimes harsh, but you don’t mind because you know it’s what you needed to hear.

They’re always there for you. Had a rough day at work? They’ve got a Mickey pretzel and plans to see Fantasmic. You’ll give them rides home and stay up with them until 5 a.m. talking about random things.

While you didn’t spend every waking moment on your program together, it was as if you had whenever you’re together.

You’ll travel together before and after the program.

But it’s a hard goodbye. One of the hardest goodbyes you’ll say leaving your program. It’s hard to go from living 3 feet away from someone to over 3,000 miles.

When I started the Disney College Program, I was mostly excited to have free access to the parks. Even today, when I talk about the perks of the program, I mention that first because I don’t think that other people could even grasp what I mean when I talk about the friends I made. That, or I don’t have the time to describe them all.

When I look back at my program, I don’t see a series of days off. I don’t remember how many times I went to the Magic Kingdom.

How to Succeed on Your DCP Phone Interview

If you haven’t done the preliminary application/web based interview, mak sure you read this post on tips first! If you have and you’re moving on… Congratulations! You’ve made it to the next step!

It’s not as scary as you think it is. Consider this: the interviewers are Disney Cast Members trained in interviewing people so it can’t be too bad!

I loved my interviewer. She was kind, patient and passionate about Disney. My interview was on the longer side, lasting about 50 minutes. She asked me why I wanted to work for Disney and role specific questions.

Scheduling your interview:

Timing-Choosing the right time is essential. You need to be sure that you will have plenty of time before the interview to get to a quiet, alone space and mentally prepare for your interview. I recommend allowing travel time + 20 minutes to give you some extra cushion time.
- Make sure that you also allow for at least an hour of time after the interview start time. Interviews can sometimes least a full hour and interviewers often call late.

The week/days Before your interview:

Location, location, location- Figure out where you are going to interview. Make sure you will be alone and the area will be quiet.Many people do the interview in their car! If you’re on campus, as a friend if you could use their room or perhaps a professor that you’re close to. If you have the opportunity, choose a location that you’re comfortable in.
Questions for the interviewer- Think of questions that you could ask the interviewer. There are some listed below.
Research the roles you put the highest interest in. Look up what those Cast Members do every day and think of the experience you have that relates to those roles.
- Many people recorded their interview or took detailed notes immediately after. These blogs/videos are great resources for potential questions they might ask you. I’ve included a few questions you should definitely know below.
Don’t memorize-Think about your answers, but don’t memorize them. Memorization can make your answers sound less authentic or genuine.
- Instead… Prepare some brief notes that will remind you of key points you want to make in your answers, but don’t memorize them.
Smile- While practicing, smile. Not only will you sound happier, you’ll feel more confident and excited about your answers.
App “Like, so” If you have a tendency to say “um, like, so” or other filler words. Download the app “Like, so” and practice your answers. The app will make note of every time you say a filler and help you practice eliminating them from your speech. The little things go a long way. No, they don’t sponsor, but the app works!

Questions to prepare:

Before I start listing questions, I want to remind you that while it’s important to prepare, make sure that you’re not overthinking your answers. Don’t just tell them what they want to hear, they hear that all the time (and don’t just tell them what I suggest either).

Disney is all about storytelling so think about a story that you could tell that answers the question. Think about the “I believe this/am this way and this story is why” format. It will back up your answers, give the interviewer a personal connection to you, and be more entertaining.

Why do you want to work for Disney? (also asked: What does Disney mean to you)
- Tell a story about how you started loving Disney and why you respect the company now.
- Focus on the job aspect of the DCP and how it’s a great chance to learn.
- If you want to work for Disney in the future, mention that you see the DCP as a way to start with the company and describe your goals.
- If there’s a role or location that you really want, this is a great chance to plug that.
- Talk about the Four-Keys (see post), why they are important, and how you think they add to Disney’s service quality and reputation.
How would the DCP help you professionally?
- Again, this is a great question to proactively address in your answer to “why do you want to work for Disney.
- Talk about Disney being the best in service and having the Disney brand on your resume can open doors.
- If you want to continue with the company, TALK ABOUT YOUR GOALS.
What would you do in an emergency situation?
- EMPHASIZE SAFETY FIRST!
- Stay calm. If you’re the first responder, designate a specific person, preferably someone who knows more about what is going on or another Cast Member if they are near, to dial 911. Direct someone else to ensure that leadership knows that a situation is developing and where.
What are your top three roles and why?
- RESEARCH IS ESSENTIAL.
- Know the good, bad, and the ugly about these roles.
- Don’t just talk about why you want them, talk about how you’re qualified for them.
- If you have one, tell a story about a Cast Member in that role had an impact on you/your trip.
What are three positive qualities about yourself?
What are three negative qualities about yourself?
What can you offer the company?
- Hint: talk about your experiences and how it would help you in the role that you want.
What are you most looking forward to about the program?
- Hint: don’t say playing in the parks, making Disney friends, or meeting your Prince/Princess Charming.
- Hint 2: If there is a role that you really want, emphasize that here.
- Instead, focus on your excitement for working for Disney.
- I talked about how I was most excited to wear the name tag and help out guests. I loved giving Disney Parks tips to all my friends, so the prospect of getting to do that every day was very exciting.
Tell me about a time you didn’t get along with your coworkers.
- DON’T COMPLAIN! Tell a story about how you found yourself in a sour situation, how you helped solve it, what you learned from it, and how it changed you.
Would you rather work in a fast or slow paced environment?
- People think that Disney only has fast-paced jobs and this is not true! If you prefer a slow paced environment, be honest and talk about how you like the idea of working in the resorts and being able to form stronger connections with guests.
How would you handle a guest that doesn’t speak English, but clearly needs help?

Questions to ask the interviewer:

Is there anything about my answers that concern you?
What has been challenging about working for Disney?
How did you start at Disney?
What do you enjoy most about working for the company?
How long have you worked for Disney?

30 minutes before the interview:

Don’t panic. You’ve prepared for this. Get into your quiet space and briefly look over your notes. Get a blank sheet of paper and copy a few notes on that, leaving room for a place to put your interviewer’s name. Practice a few of the biggest questions or the ones you struggled with, but stop 15 minutes before your interview is scheduled. Keeping your phone free and on

Keeping your phone free and on ring, do something that reminds you of why you want to do the DCP. I watched the old castle show, “Dream Along with Mickey.” My cousin watched videos of kids finding out they were going to Disney. Look at old Disney pictures, read your favorite part of a Walt Disney biography or parks history book. Do some power poses if you get the chance.

During the interview:

Now you’ve come to the fun part.

Write your interviewer’s name down. Mention it when appropriate, but especially at the end when you say goodbye
Smile
Relax
Speak from the heart
Don’t sweat the answers that didn’t go so well. They probably went better than you think.
Don’t forget to mention where you want to work.
Ask a question at the end of your interview

After your interview:

Treat yo’self. You’ve worked hard.

And now…. we wait.

DCP Application/WBI Tips!

See the DCP Minute video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIRwgA6fniA

The Disney College Program is pretty competitive. To give yourself the best chance at success, it’s best to research the process before so that you’re familiar with it. Having been through the process, I can tell you that it’s not scary if you feel prepared and you have the right attitude.

Part 1: Application

The first part of the preliminary application is a breeze. It’s going to ask you questions about your work history and education. (Spoiler alert: you must be enrolled in a college course to apply).

The second part of the preliminary app may be a bit more difficult for you depending on your familiarity with the various roles offered for the DCP. In this part, all potential DCP roles will be listed with drop down menus ranging from “Very Interested” to “Not at all Interested.” I’ll be giving you all a more detailed post on advantages/disadvantages to those roles at a later date. For now, I’ve included the link to the Program’s list of roles with descriptions.

Really research these roles and answer honestly. This should go without saying, but there’s an inclination for some to mark high interest for all roles, even roles they don’t want, to try and increase their chances of getting into the DCP.

If there are roles that you know wouldn’t be happy in, don’t put interest in it or at least put low interest. Remember that getting into the DCP does not guarantee your happiness in life. It might seem like the end of the world if you don’t get in, but I knew too many unhappy people that regretted putting interest in the role they were placed in. You might be better off applying later than getting into a role you know you’d be miserable in for 4-6 months.

Once you submit the preliminary application, your status on your dashboard (where you keep up with your application) will read “In Submission.” If you’re going to move on to the next step, your dashboard should change to say “In Progress” in a few days when you get your WBI. I have known several people that have not gone past “In Submission” the first time that they applied. Disney says it’s not random, but they all seemed like fairly good candidates. However, all of those people applied a second time for the DCP and got in. I’ll be writing more on this in another DCP post.

2. WBI- Web Based Interview

It’s a well-known fact that Disney Cast Members have to uphold certain ideals and portray somewhat of a persona while on the job. For example, a Disney Cast Member has to keep their area “show ready” and give beyond good service.

It’s structured so that the applicants are presented with many statements and they must agree or disagree as to whether or not it applies to them. Here are two examples:

I am a messy person… Strongly Disagree / Disagree / Neither Agree nor Disagree / Agree / Strongly Agree.

I work well in teams… Strongly Disagree / Disagree / Neither Agree nor Disagree / Agree / Strongly Agree.

Depending on who you ask, you’ll get different advice. I recommend avoiding lukewarm answers. If you’re about to put “neither agree nor disagree” seriously think about which side you lean to and at least answer on one side or the other. This is meant to give Disney more information about who you are and how you work. They won’t learn very much if you aren’t specific. These answers will also help determine where you’ll be working so answer honestly. No applicant wants to hear that Disney doesn’t think they’re not ready to work for them, but the WBI is structured to determine whether or not that’s the case. Trust it for the meantime, but don’t give up on your dreams. Keep trying if you don’t move on.

3: Phone Interview

This is the most infamous of all the stages in this process. Something about talking to a real-life Cast Member seems to intimidate people. Well, I’m here to tell you not to be afraid. I LOVED my phone interview. That being said, I was able to relax during it because I felt that I was well prepared.

The phone interview requires more preparation and therefore, I think it deserves its own post. I’m going to try to get this one out ASAP because I know there are many future Cast Members that are anxious to prepare.

Preliminary advice:

Look up questions interviewers may ask for your top choice roles.
Practice, but don’t memorize your answers.
SMILE! It really does make a difference.

Cast Member Secrets told by a former Disney World Cast Member

There’s a lot of magic in Disney, but also a lot of mystery.

Every Disney fan longs to learn more about how the magic is created and what it’s like to work for the happiest place on earth. Well, I’ll tell you one bonus secret: it’s pretty great… most of the time.

Like any workplace, a great deal of happiness depends on who your leaders and coworkers are. However, there are some universalities that apply to Cast Members and the secrets we share create a fairly exclusive culture.

That being said, here are some secrets to give you a peek into the life of a Walt Disney World Cast member.

1. The Four Keys

fourkeys-disney-college-program-blog

Anyone who has ever worked for Disney knows and will never forget the Four Keys: Safety, Courtesy, Show, Efficiency. While this may sound mundane and perhaps self-explanatory, these four principles are the basis for every operation in a Disney Park. Whether it’s construction for a ride, selling merchandise, performing in a show, or letting guests on attractions, the Four Keys rule. A Disney Cast Member can’t do (or isn’t supposed to do) anything that is not safe. If they have to sacrifice courtesy or the “show” that is Disney in order to keep guests safe, then so be it.

2. Everyone is called a Cast Member

courtesy-disney-disney-parks

No matter if you’re performing in a show or sweeping the streets or if you’re working in a Disney Park, you are a Cast Member. A Disney Park is considered to be a fantastical show and every employee is a part of making that magic in some way. Therefore, everyone is a part of the show, everyone is a Cast Member.

3. Disney has a set of guidelines for how Cast Members should look.

the-disney-look

This is a fact that has become quite controversial in recent years, especially since the Internet found out and listed it among other “CrAzY DiSnEy FaCtS!” In my opinion, it’s not too terrible. Disney look just lets Cast Members know what classifies as professional and what doesn’t. It’s also meant to make sure that Cast Members blend in with the park and don’t stand out. Among other requirements, Disney Look does not permit scruffy facial hair, so if you want to grow a beard, you’re going to need to take some time off or grow it in one night.

4. The “Disney Point”

disney-point

You may have never noticed, but Disney Cast Members always point with either two fingers or a whole handed motion. It is a rare occasion for a Cast Member to point with one finger. There are two theories behind why. The first, and most likely is that it’s considered rude in many cultures to point with one finger and it’s difficult to differentiate whether you are pointing in a direction or at someone. The second is that Walt Disney used to point with two fingers because there was a usually a cigarette between them. The cigarette has been edited out in all photos, but the two finger point remained and became a tradition.

5. The Hub

the-hub-noahs-light-foundation

Cast Members get nearly all their information and updates about the company from a secret Cast Member exclusive website called “The Hub.” This website provides information on upcoming contests, raffles, workshops, networking events, company news, and VoluntEAR opportunities. You can also use an application called “Rostr” to look up any Cast Member in the company and see their name, picture, and work location. It’s really great for ~~looking up that cute Cast Member you saw on Main Street~~ networking.

6. Ever wondered what it’s like backstage?

cast-members-only

Before I worked for Disney I was DYING to know what it would be like behind those well-hidden doors backstage. Disney does a pretty good job of ensuring that there are no pictures of backstage areas to preserve the magic. I’m not sure what I imagined it would be like, but I was a little disappointed to find out that it was pretty normal except it smelled really bad. My shop, Mickey’s of Hollywood, had an entrance that was directly behind the grease traps for two restaurants. It doesn’t smell any better in the tunnels of the Magic Kingdom, which I mention in another post about the park. The good news? Guests don’t have to deal with it. Cast Member are really taking one for the team.

7. You’re allowed to say “I don’t know.”

guff2

I’m not sure who started this myth, but it’s widely believed in the Disney community that Cast Members can’t say “I don’t know.” Here’s a secret: that’s not true. As a Cast Member, you are encouraged to use the resources you can and manage time appropriately. While it’s important to be courteous to guests, sometimes it’s more courteous to guests to prevent a line by saying “You know what, I don’t have a clue, but if you go to Guest Relations *insert directions here* they’ll have the answer, or be able to find it for you!”

8. 24-hour operation

magic-kingdom-morning-empty-park

If you think the park closes down when the gates shut, then you are wrong. Maintenance and construction crews spend all night making sure that the parks are pristine the next morning. Popular merchandise locations often stay open to guests up to an hour after the final nighttime show ends, which is often nearly two hours after the park officially closes. This means shifts that end anywhere from 1-4:30 a.m. Morning merchandise “heart of house” shifts usually start hours before park open so that all shipments of new product are on the shelf before guests arrive that day. This means shifts that start at 4:30 or 5:30 a.m. You can do the math: there’s almost always someone working.

9. Mickey’s Retreat

Mickey's retreat orlando theme park news.jpg

In addition to free access to all the parks, there’s a secret getaway just minutes outside of Walt Disney World property complete with a pool and boat rentals. I had no idea it existed before I came to work with the company, but boy was I thrilled. That being said, I never went. When you have free access to the Magic Kingdom, everywhere else seems insignificant.

Image sources:

Four Keys: http://blog.dvcrequest.com/walt-disney-world-cast-member-expectations/

Merchandise Cast Member: Disney Parks Blog https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2011/05/disney-cast-members-create-magic-every-day/

Disney Point: Beth’s Baby Blurbs http://clothreviews.blogspot.com/p/the-secret-life-of-disney.html

Cast Members Only: Neatorama http://www.neatorama.com/2008/11/21/10-cool-secrets-about-disneyland/

The Hub: Noah’s Light Foundation https://www.noahslightfoundation.org/disney-employee-matching-gift-program/

Custodial Cast Member: guff.com

Castle: Disney Tourist Blog http://www.disneytouristblog.com/be-our-guest-restaurant-breakfast-review/

Mickey’s Retreat: Orlando Theme Park News http://www.orlandoparksnews.com/2010/04/hidden-disney-mickeys-retreat.html

Make Many Mini Minnie Halloween Cupcakes!

My two favorite things in this world are Disney and baking, so I was very excited to combine the two this week! These adorable cupcakes are a great treat to make with friends or by yourself (they’re also fun to eat with friends… or by yourself).

Cake:

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¾ teaspoon ground ginger

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ cup butter, softened

1 cup white sugar

⅓ cup brown sugar

2 eggs, room temperature

¾ cup milk

1 cup pumpkin puree

Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese

½ cup butter

4 cups powdered sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1-2 tablespoon heavy cream

Decoration:

Candy corn

Chocolate baking wafers (circular)

Mini oreos

Cupcakes:

Set out butter and wait for it to soften. Most people skip this step, put the butter in cold or melt it, but that it a major misstep! It can change the texture and flavor of the cake. Set out the two eggs as well.

Go ahead and set out the butter for the frosting too!

Preheat oven to 375 degrees

Sift together flour, spices, baking powder and baking soda. Set aside.

Blend together butter, white sugar and brown sugar. Add eggs one at a time and blend in between. Blend in pumpkin. Blend in milk.

Slowly add flour mixture.

Bake for 15-17 min.

Frosting:

Blend cream cheese and butter. Add 2 cups of powdered sugar mixing between each cup. Add in brown sugar, heavy cream, and cinnamon. Add the rest of the powdered sugar one cup at a time.

Decoration:

Use chocolate baking wafers (circles) or mini oreos to make the ears. Break the white tips off of two candy corn and place the broken ends towards each other between the ears. Use one of the tips and place it in the center of the two pieces of candy corn.

YOU DID IT! CONGRATS! SO PROUD!

How Long Should Your Trip to Disney Be?

Four parks, four days, four tickets. That’s creed most Disney guests live by when planning their vacation. While anytime at Disney can be enjoyable with proper planning, there is so much more that should be considered when deciding how long your family should stay at Disney.

Whether you’re 4, 44 or 84 years old, there’s so much that Disney has to offer for you. Depending on how hard you want to push yourself on your vacation, one day in each park may not be enough to explore all you want to.

However, no matter how long you stay at Disney, you can’t expect to see everything.

Anna Swenson, Disney Travel Consultant at Journey’s says the short answer is no. “Whether you are a first time or returning guest, I think even if you were there for 2 weeks, you will still not see everything Disney has to offer” said Anna.

I agree, I was in Disney for a full year and I didn’t even experience everything that I wanted to. Even if you stayed in Disney World for weeks, you wouldn’t see everything.

I recommend spending a full week at Disney. If you can do it, it gives you enough time to explore the parks at your own pace and revisit favorite attractions. Four Days often leaves guests feeling rushed. The vacation turns into a checklist trip focused on getting things done and not a relaxing vacation full of family time. One week allows guests to move their plans around more.

Kim Goldstein, earmarked travel agent at Journey’s Travel, recommends getting tickets for the entire stay “that way you can take a leisurely pace at the parks and not feel so scheduled all of the time.” After you’ve bought tickets for four days, additional days are only about $12 per day.

Anna agrees, recommends purchasing as many day tickets as a guest thinks they will be able to attend, even for the days the arrive and leave.

“Maybe they can eat in a park or see fireworks the evening they arrive or hit a ride they missed or want to ride again before they leave,” says Anna.

Because of the negligible ticket price after four days, it’s not too big of a loss in the grand scheme of things if a guest can’t use a day.

If you’ve already begun to look into tickets, you might have noticed an option called the “Park Hopper*.” This option is more expensive, but it allows you to hop from park to park without having to pay for another ticket.

In my opinion, having a one-park only ticket can leave you feeling stuck in the park you started in. Being able to change parks creates a much needed break in the day. While I lived there, I only had a few days where I spent a full day at a park because I would start to yearn for a more drastic change of scenery or theming. Kim says, “Park hopping allows you to be more flexible with your dining and park itinerary. Towards the end of the trip, you usually only need a half day in each park, so the Park Hopper allows you to do that easily.”
Whether you stay for 1 day, 1 week, or 1 year, you can be sure that you can still have a good time at Disney.

Why Would Disney Close?

When most people think of Disney, they think of magic and fun, however, those are not the qualities that guide Disney’s every action. In all cases, safety is Disney’s number one priority, especially concerning Disney Parks operations.

“Safety is the top quality standard that guides the operational decisions of more than 135,000 cast members at our parks and resorts around the world,” says aboutdisneyparks.com, an official Disney website that offers information on the corporate side of the parks.

This is why Walt Disney World closed for the fourth time on Friday, Oct. 7, 2016.

Disney World has only closed four times since it opened on Oct. 1, 1971, each closure was for a hurricane. The park was also evacuated within 30 minutes on Sept. 11, 2001.

The emphasis on safety came from Walt Disney himself. He originally created Disneyland with the vision that it would be a safe, clean place for families to have fun together. In keeping with this vision, Walt Disney created the Four Keys: Safety, Courtesy, Show and Efficiency. These keys became the guidelines that all Cast Member action would be based on.

As a Cast Member, you can’t do something courteous if it is not safe. A good example of this would be not allowing a child ride Space Mountain if he or she is too short. Although it might make the family upset, in the end it is the safest choice and safety must always come before any of the other keys.

Disney tries it’s best to incorporate all four keys in every action. While the parks did have to shut down on Friday due to concerns for the safety of guests and Cast Members, Disney made sure that all cancellation were waived and that Mickey’s Not So Scary tickets were reimbursed.

The good news?

Disney World reopened on Saturday with regular operating hours and will continue to operate as long as it is safe for guests and Cast Members to be there.

The really good news?

Disney is always looking out for the safety of its guests and Cast Members and will always put safety ahead of earning money. You are always well taken care of in a Disney Park.

Daring to Dream and Do: The Story of the Magic Kingdom

It was a hot day in Anaheim, California. As Walt Disney strolled through his favorite creation he observed Cast Members and the splendor he had dreamed of. Hundreds of people rushed by trying to get to their next attraction, but he only saw one thing, someone who was very out of place: a cowboy, walking through the futuristic Tomorrowland. He was so disappointed. But then, Walt Disney did what he had always done best: dream.

Disney dreamed of a land where that would never happen, a place where he would have all the space he needed to fill his dreams. A space where he could build so much more than a park. So, he began the search.

When Disneyland was announced and a location was set, land prices skyrocketed and hotels immediately bought the land surrounding it, leaving Disney with no room to expand. This in mind, the company decided to be secretive about this new undertaking.

Much time was spent flying over properties and deciding where on the East coast this next park would be, when a large area of swampland was spotted in Osceola County, Florida near I-4. The location was settled and the project was given a name: The Florida Project.

Disney began buying the swampland under fake company names to keep his plans secret, but eventually, the news media found out and in 1965 Disney announced its new project that was officially named Disneyworld.

One year later, in December 1966, Walt Disney passed away.

His brother, Roy Disney, had been his partner through the company’s existence and he refused to let his brother’s last dream die with him. At the age of 78 years-old, Roy Disney put off retirement to build another magical kingdom.

Although he stayed out of the limelight, Roy had a habit of making Walt’s dreams come true. This loyalty and business prowess was not lost on Walt.

Two months before his death, at a business luncheon, Walt was asked what would happen to the project if he died. He responded, “Absolutely nothing, my brother Roy runs this company, I just piddle around.

Roy wanted this park to be just as Walt dreamed it and didn’t want anyone to lose sight of Walt’s vision of the project. So, soon after his brother’s passing, he renamed it Walt Disney World and insisted that everyone refer to it by that name.

Walt was a dreamer and Roy was a doer. Roy once told reporters, “Walt had this idea [for Walt Disney World]. My job all along was to help Walt do the things he wanted to do. He did the dreaming. I did the building.”

Although that meant that Walt Disney World was going to be realized no matter what happened, it also meant that Roy lacked the creativity that his brother had. he relied heavily on Dick Irvine, one of Walt’s Imagineers, and Joe Fowler in order to build the park. Both of their names can be found on windows on Main Street.

On October 1, 1971, Walt Disney World opened to the public. Later that month, Roy gave the dedication.

“Walt Disney World is a tribute to the philosophy and life of Walter Elias Disney … and to the talents, the dedication, and the loyalty of the entire Disney organization that made Walt Disney’s dream come true. May Walt Disney World bring Joy and Inspiration and New Knowledge to all who come to this happy place … a Magic Kingdom where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn – together.”

The Magic Kingdom was finally realized. Soon after its opening, Roy Disney passed, but his legacy and the legacy of his brother lived on through the Magic Kingdom. Today, you can find a statue of Roy and Minnie Mouse sitting on a bench on Main Street. Roy’s hand is holding Minnie’s up, always beside her and always supporting her.

Happy birthday to Magic Kingdom and thank you to the two brothers who dared to dream and dared to do.

Sources:

http://www.wdwmagic.com/walt-disney-world-history.htm

http://www.disneyparkhistory.com/magic-kingdom1.html

http://www.disneyparkhistory.com/the-florida-project1.htmlhttp://www.wdwmagic.com/walt-disney-world-history.htm

When to Go to Disney

Walt Disney once said, “It all started with a mouse,” but when it comes to planning your trip to a Disney park, it all starts with a question: When do I go?

Planning a trip to a Disney park is more like an endless stream of questions than a seamless, magical process. This series of posts aims to answer some of those questions and help you have the best Disney trip possible.

My first recommendation is to find a Disney Travel Consultant. They will help take care of these questions and be a resource before and during your trip. I’ve partnered with Disney Travel Consultants and park experts Kim Goldstein and Anna Swenson to give you the best advice possible when it comes to the “when” of your Disney trip.

The big question can be separated into two categories: what age do I take my kids and what time of year should we go?”

In regard to the first, I don’t believe there is a magical age that will make or break a trip. My parents’ first took me to Disney World when I was one-year-old. While I don’t remember my first two trips, my parents do and have always treasured the memories of their children experiencing “real” magic.

“Each stage and age of life comes with different interests, likes and attractions/events they can do, enjoy and ride,” says Anna Swenson. “Each stage creates precious memories that last a lifetime and can only be created once.”

Kim Goldstein, says that she’s taken her kids at various ages and each time it’s been a different experience. However, she does say that “if you’re only going to take one trip, then I recommend waiting until five years old.”

Once the time of life has been decided, the question of when turns into, “what time of year?”

I love the parks when they’re decorated for Christmas and Halloween, but if you’re looking to avoid crowds, September or January are the times to go. As a Cast Member, the least crowded week was the one following Labor Day. Once it was Tuesday, crowds dropped dramatically. Most parents don’t want to take their kids out of school during the first few weeks, but if they’re very young, it won’t make too much of a difference.

“As a rule of thumb, basically anytime school is in session, that is the best time to go to Disney,” says Anna. “This is both for lower pricing, lower crowds and typically discounts are offered as well. As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, one of the benefits to using me is helping my clients choose the best dates and park days to go that works for their schedule and by using crowd projections that I have access to.”

None of these tips are hard-set rules. Every family is different and has different needs. It’s possible to have a magical trip no matter what time of year or age you go. What will make the difference is a positive attitude and a lot of thought put into trip planning. Stay tuned to to find out how you can make your Disney Trip magical at any age.

Anna Swenson

Independent Travel Consultant Specializing in Disney Destinations, All-Inclusive Resorts & Cruises

Journeys Inc.

anna@journeystravelinc.com

(803) 487-2234

Kim Goldstein

Travel Consultant Specializing in Disney Destinations, Sandals & Beaches

804-592-0188

kim@journeystravelinc.com

www.kimgoldstein.com

My Disney Journey (so far)

What Disney Means to Me

To me, Disney is home; not only the Disney Parks but the movies as well. If I’m ever feeling lost or sad, I can return to a magical land where pixie dust can make you fly and dreams can come true if you just believe. Over the years, the characters have become more like old friends that remind me of who I am and who I aim to be.

That is why I love Disney, Disney is my home.

That is why I always wanted to work “from home.”

Why I did the Disney College Program

I would like to say that I’ve wanted to work for Disney since my first trip, but unfortunately I was only one year old and was not able to form a thought more complicated than “Tigger is scary.” I can say that I’ve wanted to work for the company for as long as I can remember.

I can recall seeing a Cast Member putting a smile on someone’s face and thinking, “that’s what I want to do.” It was from that moment that I decided to make a daily goal to make one person smile. So far, I haven’t missed a day that I can remember.

After moving down to Orlando, Florida for one year as a part of the Disney College program, it became clear to me that I couldn’t imagine working long term anywhere other than a company that makes dreams come true.

Disney Plans for the Future

I have always been a girl with many and big dreams. Over the years, my dreams and goals have been refined to having a positive impact on those around me and working for Disney.

There are several other dreams that float around my head from time to time, but these are the ones that stick with me.

I am currently majoring in Public Relations, which is a field that is a mixture of media relations, journalism and communication. My ultimate goal is to do a Disney Professional Internship after graduation in 2018.

My absolute dream would be doing the Executive Communications internship which involves all of my favorite aspects of Public Relations including, “various forms of written communication, such as remarks, correspondence and the occasional formal speech” according to the description on the Disney Careers website.

After the internship, I hope to return to school for my MBA and come back to work in Disney leadership or possibly even an executive position.

So, for those of you wondering: YES! I am planning on moving back down to Orlando and doing another Disney Internship and YES I would definitely film it for you all.

See you real soon!
-Annie