The word “Disney” brings Mickey Mouse, Tinkerbell and Cinderella’s castle to mind. But for students who have participated in the Disney College Program, images of working, living and playing at one of the world’s number-one vacation destinations, combined with Mickey Mouse, create what students call a truly unforgettable experience.

Each semester, recruiters for Walt Disney World come to BYU-Idaho looking for students who can participate in the Disney College Program.

Students live in Orlando, Fla., from four to eight months, depending on the duration of their program, while working at the Walt Disney World Resort.

“Working at Walt Disney World was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life,” said Joy Davis, a senior from Lilburn, Ga. Davis worked in entertainment as a character performer.

“I loved meeting and talking with the children and making them feel special — like they were princesses,” Davis said. She also enjoyed volunteering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps grant the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses. Many of the children wish for a trip to Walt Disney World to meet their favorite characters.

For other students, their own wishes were granted through participation in the program. “I had the opportunity to do everything I ever wanted to do,” said Lindsey Wilson, a sophomore from Chicago, Ill.

Wilson worked in the Magic Kingdom in the attractions The Magic Carpets of Aladdin and The Enchanted Tiki Room.

Students are also able to meet other college-aged students in a diverse environment.

“I was able to interact with people from all over the country. I now have friends from everywhere,” said Ben Parkes, a senior from Riverton, Utah. Parkes worked at the Disney-MGM studios as a tour guide on the Great Movie Ride. “I got paid to have fun and make people happy. How often does that happen?”

Additionally, Parkes said one of the best parts of meeting people from all over the world was being able to share the gospel with them. “For most of the people you meet, you are the first Mormon they have ever met; so essentially you become the poster child of Mormonism,” Parkes said. “Many people come to Disney because they want a change in their life, or they feel they lack direction.”

Students also have the opportunity of earning credit for their experience. Depending on their field of study, they can earn practicum or internship credit and can also enroll in classes through Disney University in Orlando.

Students interested in participating in the Disney College Program can attend an informative meeting with a Disney recruiter March 15 at 6 p.m. in MC 272 or March 16 at 3 p.m. in MC 230.