Interview a CP: Erin (Animal Kingdom Park Greeter)

Erin in front of Rapunzel's tower

Imagine being the first cast member guests see before they begin their vacation in a Walt Disney park. Erin was able to do exactly this during her college program. Here's what she had to say about her experience!

What role did you have during the DCP, and where did you work?

I was a park greeter at Animal Kingdom! I also worked the auto plaza and I was part of the opening team of FastPass+! 

What was a typical day like at work?

I typically opened the park. I would usually work 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, just making sure lights go green and guests can get into the park!! Lots of tasking as well, straightening strollers, magical moments, sweeping turnstiles, etc. Aka the easiest role ever! 

Is this the role you originally wanted? If not, are you happy you got it?

Yes! Main Entrance Operations was my number one choice and I was overall VERY happy with my role. 

What are your favorite and least favorite parts about your job?

Favorite-by far my fellow cast. And I loved being one of the first cast members to interact with the guests. 

Least was having to wake up sooooo early for the buses. Bring a car if you can. Seriously.  

Any specific magical moment you want to share?

A little girl asked me what my favorite princess was, and I said Rapunzel. She got so excited and shared with me that she was hers too. She came back towards the end of the day and gave me her favorite Rapunzel pin. Such a small gesture really reassured me at that moment that that was where I was supposed to be. 

What made you want to do the DCP?

My mom worked for the Disney Store for about 10 years growing up, so Disney has always been a huge part of my life. I was influenced by it all throughout my childhood. My family was also fortunate enough to be able to vacation frequently. My junior year of high school, I started to observe the fact that some CMs had schools on there names. I did some research, and I was hooked instantly. 

Is there something you wish you would have known before doing your program?

I wish I would've known that bringing a car would have been so beneficial. But I honestly made the most of my program in every way, and wouldn't change anything about it. 

Erin with promotion for Disney's new Avatarland

What advice would you give to those who want to participate in your role?

Be ready for a monotonous job. I like routine and repetition so it was perfect for me. But it was excruciatingly boring for some. Also be ready for LOTS of guest interaction and also guest complication. Because it's YOUR fault that they forgot which finger they used. 

What advice would you give to people who are interested in doing the DCP?

Do your research. Be mentally prepared to throw yourself into something so challenging and different. Save money. As much as you can. Understand that you won't be in the Magic Kingdom 24/7, and not all of your moments will be magical. 

If you're a current or past college program cast member and would like to share your experience, email your name and role to thedisneyden@yahoo.com to participate!

I hope everyone has a magical day!