Applications for the Disney College Program are now open to college students and recent graduates

Houston, Texas (KTRK) – It’s one thing to experience what is known as the most magical place on earth. But how would you like to be a part of making the Disney magic? Applications are now open for the Disney College ProgramAn opportunity for college students and recent graduates to live, learn, and earn money at Walt Disney World in Florida.

The program allows participants to live in Flamingo Crossings Villagenext to the Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Florida, for four to seven months. Students receive paid experience while working in theme parks and can also sign up for classes to enhance their professional skills.

Alumnus Brandon D’Hoyos remembers the day he saw an advertisement for Disney’s College program while working on the campus newspaper as a journalism major in 2003.

“As someone who grew up loving Disney storytelling, I knew I had to take this opportunity,” De Hoyos said. “Nothing can prepare you for the excitement or the benefits you get from this program until you’re there.” “Even if you don’t necessarily get the role you want, you’ll get transferrable skills that will last a lifetime.”

De Hoyos has spent most of his time working in the food and beverage business at Magic Kingdom and said the experience exposed him to a variety of cultures and perspectives.

“You have people from all walks of life speaking multiple languages, all coming together in this one place. You’re all working together towards the same goal, and that’s really about creating magic every single day. It’s really special,” he said.

One of those people De Hoyos met while in Florida and is still in contact with is Heather Luckey, who now also lives in Houston. She worked in hospitality and tourism management while attending the Disney College program, and now owns her own travel agency.

“The program taught me the different skills I need to be successful in sales specifically but also in customer service. The training we received is just top notch and it is known all over the world,” said Lockie. “But you don’t have to be specifically in hospitality and tourism. Disney gives you life skills. I knew a lot of parking lot attendants who were studying to be lawyers.”

De Hoyos came full circle to Disney, the parent company of ABC13, where he now serves as Director of Community Engagement.

“One of the things I really take away from the show is how to talk and build rapport with people in a really quick way. That’s really important, especially as a journalist. You want to learn how to make those connections,” he said.

Disney College program applicants must be at least 18 years old, enrolled in a college or university, or graduated within the last 24 months. Deadline is April 9 for arrival dates between May and October.

To apply, visit Disney College Program Application Page.

The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of this ABC station.

For more information on this story, follow Rosie Nguyen FacebookAnd Twitter And Instagram.