Hi Everyone! My name is Dionne and I'm from Winnipeg, Canada! Many of my friends say that I should try to get a job for Disney because I have the qualities and attitude to work there, plus I absolutely LOVE EVERYTHING Disney!! I was hoping to get some advice from Canadians who have experienced working for Disney, or for anyone who has auditioned to be a part of Disney Land, Disney World, or for the Disney Cruise Line. If you have any advice, or information it would greatly be appreciated! Thanks!
Hello Dionne! And welcome! My name is Matt, I'm from Edmonton. I worked at Disney World on the International College Program in 2006 and I am applying to work on the Cultural Rep program for 2010. Personally, working at Disney was the best experience of my life! And I know many people who would agree 100%. On the otherhand, I know some people too that weren't able to stick it out, or just didn't enjoy it as much. It's not for everyone, but if it is... it is amazing! I guess it depends what information really you're looking for, but I guess to start, there are 2 main programs for Canadians. The International College program is for University/College students. Basically, you go down to Orlando and work for 3-4 months during the summer break between semesters. You can work in many different roles: Attractions, Food and beverage, Merchandise, Character performer, Custodial and you can work at any park, waterpark or resort and Downtown Disney even! I think the only thing is they do not offer serving/tipped positions on the college program. At least not when I went. But at least it gives you an large amount of roles to choose from. Though I should point out you don't get to choose exactly where you work, just the role. For example if you chose attractions, you could be at Space Mountain, or you could end up at It's a Small World... not that there's anything wrong with that! The Cultural Rep program is a year long program, anyone over 18 can apply for it. Your work options are somewhat limited though as you must work at the Canada pavillion at EPCOT. Roles are either Food and Beverage, Merchandise or Operations. With F&B, you start out on the beer cart and after awhile, you can move into Le Cellier with Hosting and then Serving. Merchandise is exactly what it sounds like and operations is operating the wonderful Circlevision movie, narrated by Martin Short and doing KidCot as well. I believe there is a J1 academic program they are offering, but I don't know much about it. I just know it entails working, pretty much anywhere in the parks, and taking courses offered by a University in Florida. I hope this helps you get started. It is the experience of a lifetime!
Thank you so much for your help Matt! That's lots of great information I'll hold on to! You are so lucky, it sounds like you really enjoyed your time working at Disney! I just want to be apart of Disney SO much!! I went there in 2008 with my family for the first time, and I can't imagine being anywhere else..it is indeed the Happiest Place in the World!! The International College Program sounds awesome as well as the Cultural Rep Program! I will definitely look more into it! I really appreciate all of your advice, it makes me more eager to work there! Disney Forever!!!
You're welcome! It really is a great place to work and to live too! When I went down to Orlando to work, it was actually the first time I visited any Disney Park. I wasn't too sure what to expect, but you can bet I loved it the moment I got there! Any idea when you want to work there? Disney forever indeed!
I have to agree with Matt on this one!! I worked as a Cultural Rep way back in 1998 and to this day, I cherish and remember fondly all the wonderful memories and friends from around the world (showcase, that is) that I made. My best advice to you for applying is show your enthusiasm and compassion for everything you do. A winning attitude and great personality are key to successfully completing the application process. Being a huge Disney fan certainly doesn't diminish your chances too! ;D I can only give you advice on the Cultural Rep program, but here's the basics: 1. Be prepared to schedule 12 months to the program (possibly up to 15 months) 2. Greet your casters with a big smile, firm hand shake and direct eye contact. 3. Be open to learning. 4. Treat everyone you meet with dignity, respect and kindness. 5. Most importantly, enjoy every single minute of your experience!! Soak it all in and your memories will last a lifetime! I wish you the best of luck and hope you get a chance to represent Canada at Disney World. Cheers! Chris Topolnikov Toronto, ON
