The Disney College Program: A Path for English and Education Majors

Can I do the Disney College Program with a Major in English or Education?

Yes, you can certainly participate in the Disney College Program (DCP) if you have a major in English or Education. The program is designed to be accessible to students with a wide range of academic backgrounds, ensuring that a diverse group of young professionals can gain valuable experience in the hospitality industry.

The Relevance of English and Education Majors in the Disney College Program

Complementary Skills for the Roles

While some roles within the DCP may be more closely aligned with specific majors like hospitality or business, many positions still value the skills developed through studies in English and Education. Effective communication, teaching abilities, and a strong customer service mindset are highly beneficial in various roles within the program, from guest services to merchandise.

Real-World Experience and Industry Networking

The DCP offers a wealth of real-world experience that can complement your academic journey and enhance your resume. You'll have the opportunity to learn practical skills through hands-on work in a themed environment, which can be particularly enriching for students in the arts and education. Additionally, the program provides excellent networking opportunities, connecting you with industry professionals and potential employers.

Perspectives from a Previous Participant

A Personal Account: What I Learned in the DCP

As someone who personally participated in the DCP, I can attest to the numerous benefits it offered, even though it wasn't directly related to my major. My experience included:

Communication and Leadership Skills

I took a leadership seminar, which further honed my communication and leadership abilities. This is something that many classroom environments do not fully address. Every day, I interacted with guests and communicated with them, which is a skill that translates well into any field, including education and writing.

Storytelling and Theme Park Experience

As a theme park, Disney provides a unique platform for storytelling, where every interaction is an opportunity to tell a story through various media and experiences. This is something that is not typically covered in traditional academic settings. For English and Education majors, this can be a valuable experience that complements your studies and offers practical insights into how storytelling can be applied in different contexts.

The DCP on Job Resumes

The DCP is a great addition to your resume, showcasing your ability to work in a customer service role, communicate effectively, and demonstrate leadership skills. These are all highly valued in the job market, especially for those with English and Education backgrounds.

Important Considerations and Next Steps

Official Requirements and Application Details

When applying to the DCP, it's crucial to check the specific requirements and application details on the official Disney College Program website. Some schools may allow you to temporarily take a leave of absence or require you to take some classes online to remain enrolled during the program.

Professional Disney Internship

If you're interested in a more specialized role within the DCP, there is also a Professional Disney Internship that you can sign up for. This program is designed for students whose majors align with specific roles within the company, such as hospitality or entertainment. However, the Professional program is much more competitive with only a few positions opening up compared to the broader DCP.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Disney College Program is a valuable opportunity for English and Education majors. It offers a unique blend of hands-on experience and industry networking, making it a worthwhile addition to any academic or professional path.