Summer Alumni Program to Return to Walt Disney World in 2023

Staffing has remained a challenge at the Walt Disney World Resort, as it has across nearly all businesses in all industries since the Resort reopened in the summer of 2020 from its closure at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. While most operations at Walt Disney World have already returned to normal, some areas are still suffering from staffing challenges.

The return of the Disney College Program last year and cultural representative programs this year sought to remedy Disney World’s staffing issues, which did help to reopen several restaurants and shops that likely would have remained closed otherwise.

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While CEO of the Walt Disney Company Bob Chapek did recently confirm that hiring freezes and layoffs are in the works, it seems these changes will not directly affect Park operations as Walt Disney World is still actively hiring for several frontline positions.

In addition to advertising open positions for those looking for full and part-time work at “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” Disney has just announced the return of the Summer Alumni Program for the first time since 2019. The Summer Alumni Program gives former Disney College Program participants the opportunity to return to Walt Disney World for the summer to work in roles like Attractions, Merchandise, or Custodial (just to name a few) while living in company-sponsored housing in Flamingo Crossings Village.

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Disney shared the news that the Summer Alumni program would be returning in 2023 via email to eligible alumni, with additional information and applications available on the Disney Careers website. Roles included on the upcoming season include Quick-Service Food and Beverage, Merchandise, Attractions, Custodial, Seater, and Lifeguard.

According to Disney’s website, participants will earn $14 per hour and dates for the Summer Alumni Program’s return will run:

March 20th, 2023 – August 10th, 2023
April 24th, 2023 – August 10th, 2023
May 15th, 2023 – August 10th, 2023
May 22nd, 2023 – August 10th, 2023

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If you are interested in applying, you’ll want to do so soon as space is typically limited for the Summer Alumni Program, so you would not want to miss your chance to get your application in!

As for Disney’s current plans for layoffs and hiring freezes; The expectation is that Chapek’s announcement refers primarily to corporate positions, not frontline roles at Disney Parks and Resorts. So if you are looking to get your foot in the door (or to transition into a part-time or full-time role where you could take advantage of benefits like Disney Aspire to cover college tuition) the Summer Alumni Program could be an option for you. Visit DisneyCareers.com to learn more and submit your application.