Hello Humans! With Disney College Program acceptances still going out, and the excitement of those already accepted into the program still very much at a high, I figured I’d stick to Disney College Progam posts here on my blog a bit longer before diving more into general Walt Disney World topics.

I know many of you, like myself, have been trolling the various DCP Facebook groups obsessively since being accepted. So you’ve probably come across people inquiring about what they need to do before heading down to Florida. I know that for many of you, this is your first program and you’ve come across posts like these multiple times and they have you really thinking about what you need to do before your program. While relocating is a big part of the program there are other factors that participants need to consider before they make the move as well. So in order to help you along your journey, I’ve conducted a list of things you should look into before you head off to Disney. Questions you need to ask yourself include:

• Different Housing Option –> Complexes, Prices, Room Options: these are the 3 big decisions you need to make if you want to opt-in to choose your living arrangements.

• Roommates –> Choosing your own or going random; how do you go about finding your own O’hana? One of the best options, if you are looking for roommates, is to find your specific in move-in dates’ Facebook group and fill out a roommate survey for people to get to know you better.

• Documenting your program –> Do you plan on Vlogging / Blogging / or creating a Disney specific Instagram account? If so start looking up possible topics and talking points and following similar accounts to gain some inspiration.

• Signing up for Distance Learning and taking classes through your university –>If you are still attending school while on the DCP do you plan on taking a semester off or are you able to get credit through your college for being on the program or for an internship? Also is it worth it to take other online classes while on the program?

• Disney College Program Educational Offerings –> Do you want to take a class, a seminar, or an exploration series that is offered through the program? This is highly recommended if you want to stay with the company because you are given the chance to learn more about how they conduct certain areas of business.

• The Pro’s and Con’s of bringing a car –> Can you afford to bring your car down (think about insurance, gas, and car payments)? If not do you mind taking the buses to get to work and rely on others to get around outside Disney?  

• If not, how you are getting your stuff to Florida –> Shipping your stuff, space bags, and extra suitcases? Space bags can be a huge lifesaver when packing! Check out my packing list here

My biggest advice to first time DCP-ers is to do your research! Look at all the information you can get your hands on about the program, look into your options, and figure out what it is that you want to get out of this program. For some that may mean graduating on time and for others who will have already graduated at the time (like myself), it may be networking and finding a job at Disney after your program!

I know some people like to be spontaneous and not plan our their program, but for those of you who are planners like me, look into what choices you have during the program. However, no matter what you choose just know that this opportunity is going to be amazing and you are going to have the time of your life!

Until then just Keep Moving Forward

-Kacey