“I get to see to see fireworks every night and I’m friends with Mickey and his pals. What’s not to like?” – Corey Lidonne, MSOE junior and Disney College Program member.

The Disney College Program is coming to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to recruit cast members on Monday, Oct. 22. The program is a paid, semester-long internship in which college students can take classes and work for Disney World in Orlando, Fla.

Presentations about the program will be held in Union Room 240, at noon and 5 p.m. They will include a video describing the Disney experience and recruiters will be there to answer questions. Applications will also be available.

The common perception among college students that the Disney program is only for performing arts majors simply isn’t true, says Michelle Smits, a junior at UW-Oshkosh who is currently taking part in the program this semester. “There’s something down here for everyone,” she said.

Smits majors in marketing and human resources management, and is taking part in the marketing program at Disney. She takes classes at Disney University that count toward her major at UW-Oshkosh and works at the Epcot Theme Park in the retail sales headquarters.

Corey Lidonne, an engineering major at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, is also taking part in the program this semester. He works with professional engineers on a number of rides in the Disney Park. Lidonne is taking classes for his major, but feels that he is acquiring other vital skills as well.

“I’ve learned skills in communicating and working with people and guests from around the world that are transferable to any job in any field,” said Lidonne.

Applicants must audition in Orlando prior to starting the program. The competition is tough, but the performance experience is unbelievable.

Both Smits and Lidonne especially enjoy the perks of the program, receiving free park admission and discounts on merchandise and food.

Smits added that there are also discounts for students to numerous businesses and theme parks around the area.

“I get to see to see fireworks every night and I’m friends with Mickey and his pals. What’s not to like?” said Lidonne.

Both students told me the living situation is very hospitable with the program.

“You basically pay for what you want,” Smits said.

She said all apartments are fully furnished and you can live with two to eight roommates. The apartment complex they stay in is completely gated with security onsite 24/7. No one is permitted to enter, except residents during the night, and all guests must be checked in during the day.

Lidonne added that every complex has a gorgeous pool, workout facility, and volleyball and basketball courts. Smits agreed, “The program keeps you very active.”

The social network you create while in the program is also quite amazing.

“Not only do I have friends from all around the country. I have friends from all around the world,” Liddone said.

Both explained that there is always something fun to do at Disney. Smits added that Downtown Disney, which is open late, until 1 a.m., is very fun and full of nice restaurants and shops. If you are over 21, there is Pleasure Island at Downtown Disney, where there are many dance clubs and bars.

While working in the theme parks the past couple of months, Smits had noted that many full-time staff members at the park are former alums of the Disney College Program. Matt Gibson, a UWM alum, is one of these individuals. He completed the Advertising/PR Disney College Program in the fall of 2005, and after graduating from UWM in the spring of 2006, he moved back down to Orlando to work for the company.

“I wanted to come back for a professional internship in International Public Relations, which is a goal I am currently fulfilling,” Gibson said.

With his current job, he is frequently in the parks with media; whether it be on a media tour, a celebrity photo shoot or a live-site for a top international TV show.

He adds, “I never get bored of the parks and enjoy showing the magic to others.”

Gibson recommends the Disney College Program to anyone who is interested in getting out of Wisconsin for a semester or two.

Smits agrees, adding “This program will change your life. Disney will always be a part of my life now.”

Lidonne said that having a Fortune 500 company on your resume is great no matter where you go.

“Disney is the top entertainment company in the world; and who wouldn’t want to work for a mouse? I have the most incredible job and could not ask for a role more unique,” said Gibson.

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