Creating your home-away-from-home during your Disney Program
You did it! You’ve been accepted into a Disney Program, and you can’t wait to move into your new apartment and start making magic. As you’re packing up to begin your magical journey, don’t forget to bring a few things that remind you of the place you call home! It’s easy to get homesick during your program, especially if this will be the first time you’re away from friends and family, but don’t worry – we’ve got a few helpful tidbits that will make your new place feel like home-away-from-home in no time!
Pack your favorite stuffies
I don’t know about you, but having a few stuffed animals from home to hug and squeeze always makes me feel better when I’m down! Whether it’s that raggedy teddy bear you’ve had since kindergarten, or your favorite Mickey Mouse plush your best friend gave you when she found out you were going to Disney, bring it along and put it on your bed or dresser to make your place feel a little cozier.
Don’t forget photos
One of the easiest ways to make your space feel homier is bringing along photos of your friends and family. When you’re feeling especially homesick, it’s nice to be able to look over and see the people you love smiling back at you. Put them in a place where you can see them regularly, and don’t forget you have people back home who want you to be successful on your program! You can also bring postcards of your hometown, your school or other places that are special to you.
Get cookin’
Is there anything better than your favorite dish from back home? I’m from San Francisco, so I love grabbing some clam chowder and a sourdough bread bowl when my heart aches for a taste of my city by the bay. Before you leave home, grab a recipe book and print out or write down all your favorite recipes. You could even cook with your roommates and teach them all about your favorite dish, where it comes from and your family’s story behind it!
What’s that amazing smell?
Never underestimate the power of smell! Scent can have a strong connection to feeling and memory, so bring something along with you that reminds you of your favorite smell back home. If you live by the beach, consider packing a beach-scented lotion, or perhaps use the same laundry detergent that mom uses when she does your laundry. Just remember, candles or things with an open flame are not permitted within Disney Housing.
It may take some time to adjust to your new surroundings, but by following these tips, you can make your new dwelling a little bit more like home. Remember, your Disney Program will be the time of your life, and you’re going to create the most wonderful memories in your new apartment with your new roommates and new friends! While it’s ok to feel homesick from time to time, try not to dwell on it. Soak up every moment of your program that you can – after all, you’ve got lots of new memories to make and only a little bit of time in your new, magical home-away-from-home!
