by Brittany DiCologero and Sam Martin
This Disney College Program role interview features Sam Martin, who worked in custodial at the Walt Disney World Resort. Sam spent the Spring 2016 and the Fall 2016 programs working at World Showcase in Epcot.
Q: What made you want to do the Disney College Program?
A: I heard about the college program at an open house for my school and it sparked my interest. I was hesitant to apply because I was doubtful that I would be accepted. A friend of mine talked me into applying after she got accepted.
Q: What was your role and location? Was it your first choice? If not, what was?
A: I worked custodial at World Showcase in Epcot. Custodial definitely was not my first choice. I was hoping for quick service or attractions, something more “Disney.”
Q: What was your training like?
A: My training went great. My trainer was one of my coordinators and quickly became a good friend.
Q: What did you like most about your role?
A: One of my favorite things about being a custodian was the guest interactions. Between pin trading, handing out stickers and singing happy birthday to random guests, the guest interaction made my program truly magical. Guests would thank me for keeping the parks clean. Also the amount of freedom custodians have compared to other cast members was great.
Q: What did you like least?
A: My least favorite part was cleaning all the gross spills between code Vs (vomit) and BBPs (blood borne pathogens) etc…
Q: Would you recommend this role to a friend?
A: I would definitely recommend the role to a friend, the pros outweigh the cons. The guest interactions made working at Disney World the best time of my life.
Q: What advice would you give to new CPs in this role?
A: The best advice I can give to a new CP with custodial is just to be patient and keep a positive mindset. Custodial may not seem like a role to be proud of but it’s way better than most people may think.
Q: What have you been up to since your program ended?
A: I’m currently working part time at Panera Bread and I’m in my last semester of culinary school. I have recently been accepted back into the Disney College Program for quick service food and beverage for the Fall Advantage season.