Elephants, Education and Empowerment: An Unforgettable Disney College Program Experience
The Disney College Program is a unique opportunity for students and recent graduates to immerse themselves in the magic of Disney while gaining valuable professional experience. For Charm, it was more than just an internship—it was a life-changing adventure.
Charm had previously participated in the Disney College Program and loved it so much that she decided to return. “I chose to do it again because I loved the overall experience, as well as the friends and connections I was able to make,” Charm shares. Her excitement was palpable, but she never expected the incredible role that awaited her.
When Charm received her role as a Kilimanjaro Safaris driver at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, she was in shock. “As someone with a speech impediment, being a safari driver had never even crossed my mind as a possible role,” Charm admits. “Especially considering the fact that the interview is over the phone, and it’s not something I can really hide.”
Despite her initial doubts, Charm’s passion for education and connecting with guests shone through during the interview process. The result? A role that perfectly combined her love for education with the magic of Disney’s conservation efforts.
Charm was overwhelmed with emotion when she discovered her placement. “I immediately cried because safaris was the perfect combination of the two,” she recalls. The role would go on to change her life and the way she saw herself.
Working as a Kilimanjaro Safaris driver comes with significant responsibilities. “The biggest day-to-day responsibility of my role was honestly safety,” Charm explains. Operating large vehicles and navigating close encounters with animals required constant vigilance. But for Charm, the opportunity to educate and entertain guests made it all worthwhile.
Charm prioritized delivering information that would leave a lasting impact on guests. “We have the opportunity to raise awareness about endangered animals,” she says. Her dedication to this mission was evident in every safari she led.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Charm’s role was the chance to meet and interact with guests from around the world. The unpredictable nature of the safari led to some unforgettable experiences. “Since the ride can be very unpredictable, I often found myself in situations where around 40 strangers were stuck in a truck with me, sometimes for an hour,” she recalls. These moments allowed Charm to connect with guests on a deeper level, playing games like Disney trivia or simply getting to know each other.
One of Charm’s most cherished memories was driving a Make-A-Wish kid who wanted nothing more than to see an elephant for the first time. “Getting to be there and see her face when she saw the elephants was something I will never forget,” Charm says. Moments like these made her role truly magical.
Charm’s experience as a Kilimanjaro Safaris driver profoundly impacted her personal and professional development. “This role has honestly changed me forever,” she reflects. Overcoming the challenges posed by her speech impediment, Charm found herself inspiring others with similar experiences. “The Disney College Program showed me that I am more than my impairment and that with confidence, I can do jobs that I previously thought impossible.”
Charm’s role shaped her Disney College Program experience and instilled a newfound love, passion and appreciation for animals and the environment. “I gained an understanding of how every little thing we do has meaning and can change the world for the better,” she says.
Charm has one piece of advice for those considering the Disney College Program: “Don’t discredit yourselves. You will be shocked by what you are able to achieve and the impact you can make on not only the guests’ trips but their lives as well.”
Ready to see how the Disney College Program can change your life? Apply now!
