Imagine stepping outside of your classroom and into the most magical place on Earth. For students seeking employment while furthering their education, Walt Disney World and affiliated properties offer unique opportunities.
Bree Patterson had discovered the Disney College Program through a Jones peer, Daniel Jackson. Jackson inspired her to take a Zoom interview with the possibility of being selected to work and learn within the parks and resorts.
In the fall of 2025, Patterson had moved from a small Mississippi town to a radiant campus life only 10 minutes from the Disney park gates.
“I had the opportunity to meet people from many different backgrounds, which has broadened my perspective. It is like no other,” she said.
For Disney College students, their jobs for the semester are primarily assigned based on need, with consideration for their work history. Based on her resume and personal strengths she shared with the interviewer, Patterson was assigned as a housekeeping assistant in the Animal Kingdom Lodge.
“While work schedules can be busy, they provide flexibility when possible and encourage participants to stay on track with their education,” Patterson said.
The Disney Imagination campus is where students can prioritize online courses or even participate in a variety of academic classes provided for college credit. Patterson was able to finish her Jones associate’s degree with a few extra credits in environmental science and theme park franchising.
Housing is provided to all program members. Like a typical campus, students are partnered with roommates, except they share a complete apartment with a kitchen and a communal room. The Flamingo Crossing apartments offer community activities for students to make the most of their experience.
Disney offers park tickets and discounts on meals and merchandise as additional perks for students. The tickets can be redeemed for free entry to all the international parks, which accommodate the International College program students when they travel home.
In recent months, Disney has been barring students from applying to extend their stay after a year of participation. Presently, Patterson is looking back on her experience with satisfaction and has a better idea of how to pursue her passions outside of the parks.
“Overall, this experience has been very rewarding, and I would absolutely encourage others to consider the program if they are looking to grow both personally and professionally,” she said.
To apply for the Disney College Program (DCP), students must submit an online application on the Disney Careers website at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/disney-programs during open application periods (typically August for Spring and January for Fall). Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited college/university, have completed at least one semester, and be at least 18 years old.
by Katie Patterson
