A quintessential child of the 80′s, I had the distinct pleasure of growing up in what was called the “new” golden age of Disney animation. I remember the big summer blockbuster releases of Aladdin, Beauty & The Beast and Pocahontas…then eagerly awaiting the VHS release that holiday season…awww, memories.
Not so surprisingly, I was also a big fan of the Disney parks…well, pretty much one park: Tokyo Disneyland. See, I was born in Japan and even for the four years we were living in South Korea, we were never *too* far to pay good ol’ TDL a visit. I was lucky enough to have a Grandpa willing to take me there and endure countless rounds of ‘it’s a small world’ – the only thing I would ride for the longest time, and to this day, still my favorite ride! I wrote a tribute here 
As the years went by, the thought occurred to me that maybe, one day, I could be a part of the Disney company. I wasn’t really sure how, or if was even a good idea or not, but it was more of a fleeting idea. Sure enough, however, the time came, when I was in college and heard about the Walt Disney World College Program.
Lots of people actually complete this program while still in college, but after discussing it with my parents, we came to the conclusion that I would apply for it during my last semester of school, and try it that fall after graduating. If it was terrible, and not anything I imagined, no worries – but if I loved it, I could take it from there.
Me and Michael Kelley, 2007 WDW Ambasssador
I am sure you can guess how that turned out!
From August 2006 through September 2010, I literally had my dream job of making dreams come true in a variety of roles: from my first, unglamourous-yet-rewarding position of Merchandise Main Street Entrance (AKA STROLLERS!) to attractions, the Dream Squad, and eventually Guest Relations and VIP Tour Guide. True, there were ups and downs along the way, but to be perfectly honest, pixie dust from the truly special experiences more than made up for the icky ones…and I will never have a shortage of fun stories to tell you!
Although I am no longer a Cast Member, my love for Disney is the love of a lifetime, I would have to say. Hubs and I joined the Disney Vacation Club during our honeymoon Disney Cruise, I had to make a stop at Tokyo Disneyland this past Christmas in Japan and in 2011, I completed the COAST TO COAST Disney challenge of running a half marathon on both coasts!
Me, Toady and my Race Bling!
—
So, long story short. Disney = love & if you ever need any Disney advice or have park questions, I’d be happy to help – speaking as just me!
Here are a few Disney resources I’ve posted on the blog…
[...] Disney [...]
when did you work Soarin’? one of my college friends (and Hubby’s best friend) worked that ride too! his name’s TJ (or Tyler).
I worked at Soarin’ from May 2007 thru Nov 2007.
That’s so cool! I, too, remember when Lion King, Pochahontas, etc came out, and I adored them. R’s parents are DVC members, so we go to Disney often! It’s so fun, although as of late I think my favorite parts have been the world showcase at Epcot and all the awesome restaurants. California Grill is pretty much my favorite place in the world.
Epcot is awesome! So glad you have wonderful Disney memories, too! I love DVC as well – have you stayed at the Villas at the Grand Californian yet? AMAZING!
I wish I would have known this when you were still here! I would have stopped by to say HELLO
We are at Disney all the time, but that’s because we live right next door LOL. Disney is my happy place. I did apply for a job at the DVC offices because they’re right across the street from me (literally!), but sadly wasn’t called back. 
I still think about applying from time to time.
Next time I go down to Florida we should definitely grab coffee…I seriously need to get back down to work a shift or two sometime!!
Absolutely! DM me on Twitter when you’re coming!
Club 33…any top secret ways of getting in? I am Disney obsessed and live a 6 hour drive away from Disneyland. Thanks!!
It’s who ya know! Find an IN by talking with CMs. =)
I feel like I’d be an annoyance to ask about it…I’m sure they get it all the time. One of these days!
[...] Disney [...]
I’ve just booked us to go on a Florida road trip in July and we’ll be stopping at Disney for a few days…this has made me very excited! Sounds like such an amazing and rewarding job? Hope the staff do as much to make my little boys dreams come true
[...] Disney [...]
I always think it is so cute how some people still love Disney as an adult. I am running the DL 1/2 in Sept too. It’s my first DL race, I’m excited!
I don’t know why I never replied to this comment! How was your race? Popping over to your blog now to say HI!
Hi! Thanks for stopping by and checking out the recap. The Disneyland Half was fun! The fairy wings I was wearing gave me a big cut on the back but aside from that a great weekend!
[...] Disney [...]
[...] Disney [...]
Ahhh!! I did the program, too. I worked at the Polynesian Resort and I loved every second of it. Everything you’ve said is so true- that love just sticks with you, doesn’t it?
No way! That is too cool
When were you there??
[...] Disney [...]