A career at Walt Disney World?

[jiminy.cricket]

Hi,

I usually visit the forums but I just registered and am excited to finally be on, and I had some questions about working for Disney.

I’m a college undergrad and I’ve always wanted to work at Walt Disney World. The problem is, I don’t have anything specific in mind. I just think that’s where I want to spend my best hours because I love it, but that’s basically all there is to it. Is that a good enough reason to start planning now to work for the Disney company? I wonder if it’s shallow that I want to work there just because I’ve always enjoyed being there.

Also, I was wondering what life is like working at Disney World. How different is working for Disney than from visiting? I’m just afraid if I place all my chips there and lose my job, I won’t know what else to do. Is it really competitive working for Disney? Do you need to be very shrewd or sly? Is it stressful? Once you start working for Disney, do you get tired of it? Does it get old quickly? Any regrets or down sides?

I can’t really see myself climbing the corporate ladder for an executive position; I would really like to be involved at the parks. With that in mind, is it possible to build such a career at Disney World? In a perfect world, I would like a stable job and income without climbing “too high”, if that makes sense (i.e. trying to become a CEO). Could I survive for the rest of my life on that same job, or would that be too risky? Would I easily be laid off or fired?

Does the WDW College Program affect your chances of employment? How outgoing do you have to be to get in? Is it possible to arrange a Summer program, even though it isn’t officially offered? Also, how is the working climate for gay employees?

Sorry for all the questions! I’m currently pre-health with no idea how the business/real world works, but I’m trying to explore other options, so I would greatly appreciate any advice at all (in layman’s terms). Thanks a lot for any information!

 

[wedway71]

I dont work for Disney but my very closest freind does in mid-level management for Disney Consumer Products. Disney is such a vast organization with thousands of different cast members all over the world.

I think everyone will have a different answer to your questions.Im sure there are lots of Cast Members ranging from entry level to execs that love Disney and there are some that dont.

I can say my buddy who shares my love for Disney really loves his job and will never leave the company.He did say there is so much room for growth and the chance to move around the company divisions all ove the world.

Some things he tells me is he networks all the time. He also says be adaptable and embrace change.Also the main thing he says is dont let a bad boss ruin your dream of working for Disney.In life we all get a jerk boss but that shouldnt change your attitude towards the company.

He says the benefits are really good-medical,dental,401k,etc. I know that entry level jobs at the parks dont pay all that well but then again do any entry level jobs pay well anywhere???- I wont disclose his salary out of respect but hes my age (35) and can afford to have a nice house in Glendale,Ca and has a new Range Rover to boot.

 

[radiohost]

Im going to make this very clear and simple!!!!





ready???






You HAVE to do the WDWCP!!!!!!!!!

The way it sounds this program was made for you. If you have the slightest interest in working for the WD company, then definately do the program. Im going in March; 6 weeks from today to be exact!!!! heres the webpage, www.wdwcollegeprogram.com if you have ANY questions about the program then this wdwmagic is the place to ask. You will find a bunch of helpfull, friendly, knowledgable people on here to answer any questions. Believe me, it helped ALOT!!!! Good luck, and let your journey officialy begin!!!! Radiohost

 

[CrashNet]

YES! Definetly check out the College Program. It will give you a quick and easy way to apply and get down there (cause they provide a place to live, etc.). The biggest thing, though, is that it will give you a realistic perspective of what it is like to work for Disney, and it will help you figure out if it is something you want to persue or not.

 

[pluto77]

I also agree, the College Program is a good place to start. Plus if you ever want to a an internship for you major there, going through the college program first looks good.

 

[jiminy.cricket]

I'm just unsure if my love of Disney alone is a sufficient foundation on which to build a career. WDWCP probably is the best way to find out. Thanks for all the advice! More suggestions are welcome!