Mickey Mouse is one of the most recognized celebrities in the world. He makes dreams come true—and if you haven’t met him, well, you’re missing out on one terrific hug. This past weekend, 100 teenagers had the opportunity to do just that: meet Mickey. Disney Executive Princeton Parker and Walt Disney World Ambassador Shannon Smith-Conrad served as the leaders of Dreamers Academy Weekend. This year, they poured their hearts into these Dreamers, and the experience would not be complete without such unwavering leadership!
The Disney Dreamers Academy is no easy ticket. Let’s talk about why your high school student should apply.
On with the Show:
You Stand Out
The DDA Program (as it’s affectionately known) is a serious résumé booster. Thousands of students write the critical essay each year—and only 100 are selected. Once you arrive, the famed Disney World parade begins and guess what? You’ve got a prime seat—because you’re in the parade! Yep, there you are on a float with Mickey and his best friends. And that’s just the first day, folks!
Resort Living
I know you like your house, but Disney has a surprise waiting. Animal Kingdom Lodge will serve as your home for the next four days. Not only is it one of Disney’s most coveted resorts—it’s also stunningly beautiful. Plus, a giraffe might casually stroll by your window! You and your guest will receive VIP service, and there’s still more to experience.
Network and Network
During the four days at Disney Dreamers, you’ll be presented with a myriad of opportunities to grow your network. Want to become a fashion influencer? You’ll meet Jerome Lamaar, who started as a fashion consultant at just 15 with Baby Phat Fashions. Passionate about art? Nikkolas Smith shares his journey from creating viral artwork inspired by Black Panther to becoming an Imagineer at Disney.
The friendships you form during the program often last a lifetime. No matter how far apart you may be, social media will keep you connected. From dining with DDA alum Princeton Parker to standing just feet away from Grammy winner Adam Blackstone, you’ll build valuable relationships that help pave your road to success.
Fun Is on the Menu
Do you truly know the value of VIP access at Walt Disney World? Each day, you and the other Dreamers experience a different park—with immediate access to the most popular rides and attractions. From screaming on roller coasters to traveling through cultures at EPCOT, you’ll have the ultimate Disney adventure.
More Motivation
Whether your dream is to build the next app or star on Broadway, the Disney Dreamers Academy is an empowering space where dreams take shape. As students, it can be discouraging to hear “no” because of your age or other external factors. DDA provides the motivation to push through the mundane and meticulous tasks that come with chasing a dream—and it emboldens you to leave your unique impact on the world.
I’ve always had a blast participating in the DDA Program. Seeing the smiles, the happy tears, hearing the laughter, and witnessing real connections being made—it all makes for a great story. But for these 100 students, it’s more than just a story.
It’s the best story ever told.
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