Embarking on a career journey with Disney through their Career Start Program is a dream many college students pursue. The allure of working at Disney World or Disneyland, gaining professional experience, and immersing oneself in the magical Disney atmosphere is undeniably strong. Amber Sewell, a participant in Disney’s College Program following a successful stint in their CareerStart Program, shares her honest experiences, revealing both the enchanting and challenging aspects of this unique opportunity. While her journey began with excitement in May 2011, as part of the College Program at Disney World, Amber’s reflections offer a grounded perspective for anyone considering a similar path.
“This program feels distinctly different from my CareerStart Program experience last year,” Amber reflects early in her journey. This sentiment not only persisted but intensified as her current program progressed. Unlike her previous experience where she felt connected and engaged until the very end, this time, with sixteen weeks still ahead, a strong feeling of homesickness and a desire to return home began to take root. While acknowledging the connections she had made and people she would miss, the overwhelming feeling was a readiness to leave Florida and the program behind.
The reasons for this contrasting experience were multifaceted. Amber pondered if it was the absence of the close-knit, almost familial environment she had cherished at the Electric Umbrella during her CareerStart Program. Perhaps it was the shift in her living situation. Instead of relaxing evenings spent with roommates, the high noise levels at home drove her to retreat to her room for peace. The pull of academic pursuits also played a role; being home meant progressing with general education courses, a step towards her future. Adding to this was the seasonal shift. While autumn, her favorite season, painted her home in vibrant colors and cooler temperatures, she remained in the Florida heat, longing for the familiar comforts of home.
Despite these growing feelings of homesickness and disillusionment, Amber recognized the commitment she had made. “Whatever the reasons… I’m here until January, and as much as I want to go home, no purpose would be served in leaving.” This realization brought a sense of resolve to navigate the remaining weeks of the program.
September at Disney World brought a noticeable slowdown. Reduced park attendance translated directly to less work. Amber found herself assigned to package pickup duties, a role that, while not thrilling, offered a welcome respite from boredom. “I’m perfectly fine propping my feet up on a desk and reading the hours away in between driving to pick up packages,” she admits. Limited shifts outside of package pickup meant her days were often quiet. However, the anticipation of the upcoming Food and Wine Festival offered a glimmer of hope for increased park activity and a busier work pace.
Even routine tasks came with unexpected bumps. Driving a loaner van while her usual vehicle was being serviced, Amber encountered a minor mishap. Navigating the backstage alleys of EPCOT, she misjudged a turn while backing up, resulting in a small dent in the van’s bumper. “About that time, with a dull thud, I backed the van into a pole, knocking my head into the side of the window,” she recounts. The incident led to paperwork and a moment of trepidation, but thankfully, it was handled with understanding by her managers. “The loaner van was avoided from that point on. 64 is back,” she notes with relief.
Automotive troubles seemed to follow her even beyond work. On her commute to Disney, her car’s oil light illuminated, followed by unusual engine performance. A quick check revealed a significant oil leak, rendering her car unusable for the time being. “Needless to say, I will be taking the bus for the next few days,” Amber concluded, highlighting the everyday challenges that can arise even in a dream location.
Even personal care errands brought unexpected experiences. A visit to the barber shop in the Utilidors for a hair appointment turned slightly comical when the stylist’s approach differed from her expectations. Despite initial concerns, the outcome wasn’t disastrous, but it added to a growing list of reasons to anticipate her return home.
In her downtime, Amber found solace in familiar routines – reading, shopping, and watching Friends. Seeking to supplement her reduced work hours, she actively searched for extra shifts, managing to secure just one. As the days counted down, the anticipation of returning home grew stronger. “113 days left!” she exclaimed, marking the passage of time and the approaching end of this chapter in her Disney journey.
Amber’s experience in the Disney Career Start Program, as part of the College Program, offers a valuable and honest glimpse into the realities of such internships. While the magic of Disney is undeniable, her reflections remind us that personal challenges, homesickness, and unexpected situations are all part of the experience. For those considering a Disney career start, Amber’s story provides a balanced perspective, highlighting the importance of preparation, adaptability, and realistic expectations when pursuing your own Disney dreams.
