Applications for The Disney College Program opened last week for the fall 2023 term. While any student who meets eligibility requirements can apply, Belmont University’s Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business (CEMB) offers a unique opportunity for many of its majors.
Acceptance into the program can provide an opportunity to remain full-time Belmont students, keep their scholarships and financial aid and get hands-on experience working in Disney Parks and Resorts. Plus, Belmont offers online classes that students can take while participating in the internship program as well as specialized Disney seminars and professional development classes for which they can receive credit.
“Being one of the only institutions in the country able to do so, it puts CEMB in a unique position to provide opportunities that are difficult to find elsewhere,” said Dr. David Schreiber, Associate Professor and Chair of the Creative & Entertainment Industries Program at Belmont. “It’s a perfect complement to what many students are studying during their time here. Whether they are a creative & entertainment industries (CEI) major, music business, media studies or songwriting, they can take what they are learning in the classroom and build upon that through this experience. Being able to provide full-time options to some students is often quite attractive for those who need to keep this status for financial aid or scholarship purposes.”
This popular program is designed to help college students gain valuable work experience, develop leadership skills, make lifelong connections and reach graduation on time. The Disney College Program is available for up to two years after graduation, giving students more time to take advantage without interrupting regular coursework.
“Many of the students that have interest in being involved in the program have often grown up with a fondness and positive association with the parks and the Disney brand,” Schreiber said. “Having the opportunity to work for one of the best entertainment companies in the world while being able to provide the magic that inspired them is often at the heart of their desire to be engaged in this way.”
Here’s a closer look at the benefits for students:
Real-World Experience
Participants get the opportunity to work in various departments within Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Programs span four to seven months (with opportunities to extend up to one year) and students may work as park attendants, merchandise associates, ride operators or costumed character performers starting at $14 an hour. They may also participate in a professional internship related to their major (marketing, accounting, legal, etc.).
Note: Disney Professional Internships differ from the Disney College Program. These professional internships are offered across the United States in all segments of The Walt Disney Company, including media networks, consumer products, studios and entertainment, and may be located in Los Angeles, Orlando, Seattle or Bristol, Connecticut. Information about applying for Disney Professional Internships can be found here.
Students who participate in the Orlando Disney College program live at Flamingo Crossings Village for the duration of their program with all amenities they need close by. Transportation to and from the parks and resorts is included. Cast member discounts on merchandise, food and resort stays are just some of the perks of the program.
Networking Opportunities
The Disney College Program also provides participants with valuable networking opportunities. Students have access to social events to meet other students from around the world and connect with potential future employers. They also receive personalized feedback from experienced mentors dedicated to helping students succeed inside and outside their role at Disney.
Career Development Resources
The program doesn’t end after their internship ends—Disney continues to provide resources for alumni after they leave their positions. As alumni of the program, students have exclusive access to career development resources such as job postings for entry-level roles within The Walt Disney Company or other organizations around the country, advice from former colleagues and discounts on flights and hotels for professional conferences or interviews.
Eligibility
Belmont students must be at least a second-semester sophomore before beginning the program and must have met the majority of WELL-Core hours needed before going. Belmont has additional eligibility requirements that are separate from Disney’s requirements. Click here to learn more and apply.
Click here to learn more about the Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business and to apply.
