Afterthoughts- Was It All Really Worth It

Since coming home one question has been asked numerous times: “Would you do it again?”

My reply is always: “No”.

Everyone is always shocked when I give this answered. Don’t get me wrong I loved doing the Disney Cultural Exchange Program and being a lifeguard.  It was truly the best summer of my life. The memories I have working for the company and the amazing people that I met are too good that I wouldn’t want to spoil them by having a second round.  I believe that this experience was a once in a lifetime and if I went back again, all I would do is compare it to the first time.

I will highlight some of the cons to the Disney Cultural Exchange Program; not everything is always pixie dust. You will feel that the only thing you are doing is working, some people were working up to 60 hours a week. The transportation runs twice an hour to and from your location with bus journeys usually being forty minutes long.  You will have to pay for your own flights and medical insurance and rent for your flat.

Despite the above, I loved my summer working for the Mouse. I met some of the most amazing

people from all different countries. I met a great group of friends, who I keep in contact with today. I developed my understanding of American culture while also having a blast.  I saved up my wages and at the end of the program and got to travel the west coast going to San Diego, Los Angeles, las Vegas and San Francisco, for my summer vacation, this allowed me to see other parts of the country.