The Walt Disney World College Program is a powerful college internship, sprinkled with a little bit of pixie dust, and it was an irreplaceable experience for me.

The decision to do this college internship was out of character for me (no pun intended). I had never really been away from my family and friends. I left northeastern Pennsylvania for Orlando just after New Year's. When I contemplated bidding farewell to my friends, family, and cat, I wondered, "What was I thinking?"

I cried when I said goodbye to my boyfriend, but the next day I made the 16-hour car trip with my dad. I am so glad I did. The experience I had with the Walt Disney World College Program was amazing. I lived in a great apartment complex just for interns. I quickly became close with my roommates, and we often took advantage of our free admission to the Disney parks.

There are many great roles to fill in the Walt Disney World College Program. Mine was as hostess of a Polynesian Luau dinner show at one of Walt Disney World's Resorts. I learned the meaning of teamwork and valuable problem-solving and guest relations skills. The experience brought to life lessons I had only previously studied in textbooks.

The magic I experienced transcended Cinderella's castle, too. I had the chance to volunteer for Give Kids the World, an organization based near Disney World with which Disney cast members are encouraged to volunteer. The children at the Give Kids the World Village are terminally ill; it was wonderful being able to spend time with them and help cheer them up.

Part of the Cast
When I returned home from Florida, I applied for a campus representative position. Disney accepts alumni to volunteer as representatives of the program to get the word out to other students and aid in the recruiting process.

I was accepted and maintained my status as a "cast member," as Disney employees are called. It was a great way to remain part of the magic. I also kept in touch with other alumni of the program through the College Program Alumni Association. This group often lends a hand to the campus representatives and meets to discuss ways to work as a group to serve around campus and also reminisce about "Disney days."

How to Join the "Mickey Mouse Club"
Providing guest services and upholding the image of the most renowned entertainment company are skills that you can carry with you to any career or job. Disney employment looks great on a resume, and there are networking opportunities available within the company once you are there.

Some universities offer credit for the internship or for courses available to you on--site. Courses are accredited by ACE, the American Council on Education. All majors are welcome on the Walt Disney World College Program, and advanced internships are also offered. Those are more competitive and major--specific; most are for alumni of the College Program.

Presentations are given at universities all over the United States. Keep your eyes open for posters and announcements for recruiters coming to your school. If Walt Disney World recruiters can't make it to your campus, they're bound to be visiting one nearby, so check out the College Program Web site for a presentation schedule. Or, for more information on the Walt Disney World College Program, surf www.wdwcollegeprogram.com.