Disney Homecoming Reunion 2025: A Week to Remember
I’m home!
Ahhhh the smell of Disney!!
If you’ve been, you know exactly what I mean. If you haven’t, there’s a specific scent to each park that is blasted through the air on a consistent basis. The smell of churros, Mickey pretzels, popcorn, and all the scents of each country in Epcot. It’s truly unmatched. Heck, I even have candles that imitate the smell of the orange grove in Soarin’ that burn in my office.
In 2018, I embarked on a journey that would change the projection of how I look at business. I applied for the Disney in college program, and told myself (and my parents), “I’m not going unless I get Disney’s photo pass.”
After submitting a resume, filling out an online interview, and having 5 back-to-back interviews with a cast member on the phone, I waited. A few weeks later, a letter from Disney arrived in the mail…. Mixed emotions flooded my thoughts as I started to read. Congratulations! I got in!! … to merchandise….
I read the letter twice, told my mom, and said “I’m still going to go. It doesn’t matter that it’s merchandise. I can’t NOT go to the happiest place on earth.”
Preparations began - I diligently watched flights, started packing my necessities, and eagerly awaited the day I would make it. In August of 2018, I finally arrived. My role of merchandise at the Animal Kingdom began. I had two fantastic roommates, and a beautiful view of the Tree of Life every day I worked on Discovery Island. My favorite thing was being on a shift outside and seeing the parrots fly overhead guests, and land so calmly in front of the tree.
Some hours were long, some were short. Some days were spent working in the parks, some days were spent exploring the parks. Some days consisted of working after-hour parties, and some days consisted of showing my friends and family who visited my new favorite places. In January of 2019, my magical program came to an end.
I learned the Disney way, made so many friends from around the world, and created a second home that to do this still impacts decisions I make today.
Fast forward to October of 2023, and I had a week of what felt like entirely bad luck. This same week, admission to the 2024 Disney Homecoming Reunion sign-ups would be released. Thanks to some magical friends - and given away by the title of this blog - I got in. I made it! I screamed out loud - scaring my mother in the process. I get to go home! And experience the love I had for the parks all over again.
Day 1: Social Rooms & Networking Expos
Okay, let’s skip past the part where I waited in line for an hour to pick up my packet to be able to explore. Que day 1!
I immediately noticed this pin board after heading into a get social room. Oh, I loved trading pins with guests as a cast member. I used to place my pins on my work lanyard backwards intentionally. To be able to trade with me, you had to be able to answer trivia questions!
How many people can ride the Flight of Passage at one time? 192! Who is the first Disney Princess? Snow White! Who voiced Belle in the 1991 animated version of Beauty and the Beast? Paige O’Hara.
I think you get the point… Now, imagine my shock and surprise when I see this massive board of complete collections. What is this?! I eagerly run over. To my awe, I get to meet Jes. Wow. Jes is AMAZING. She is a senior manager for product design at Disney Experiences. I had so many questions about her role, pins, trading…. And she in turn had so many answers! The pins on the board are all collections being released (some may have been released by the time you read this) - and she was so ahead of the game, that she knew what pins were coming out until 2027. She didn’t disclose any secrets about the designs coming out then, but I was in awe that Disney was so well prepared. The highlight of my day truly.
The next highlight for me was being able to experience the networking expo that showcased Disney opportunities. My particular favorite, being able to tour the Disney Institute. We weren’t allowed to take videos, but I snagged a few photos off their LinkedIn and grabbed a quick snap in front of the logo.
Now, what is the Disney Institute? The Disney Institute is a professional development and training organization that teaches business strategies inspired by The Walt Disney Company. It offers workshops, training programs, and consulting services to businesses and professionals across various industries, focusing on areas such as:
Leadership Excellence – Building strong, effective leaders.
Employee Engagement – Creating a positive workplace culture.
Customer Experience – Delivering exceptional service, modeled after Disney's renowned guest service standards.
Business Innovation – Driving creativity and operational efficiency.
Their training is based on Disney's approach to customer service, employee satisfaction, and operational excellence, and it’s often used by organizations looking to improve company culture and customer loyalty!
Bucket list item to improve Dominique Murray Photography? You betcha!!
Day 2: More Social Rooms and Semi Formal
Day 2 was just as magical as day 1. I had the opportunity to continue socializing with former cast members of all ages in the get social room. Connecting with people from around the world is one of my favorite things about Disney. We caught the monorail to Magic Kingdom, and hustled our way through the crowded park.
After a brief stint of pin trading and hamburgers at Cosmic Rays, we were off to the semi-formal.
I decided to bring my Disney World 50th tiara for the occasion. I wrapped it in bubble wrap and didn’t let it leave my side on the flight down. Never worn, I unwrapped it from it’s bag and packaging as I got ready for our semi. Featuring a favorite dress of mine from Sam’s Vintage, I felt like a princess again.
From delicious food to exclusive meet and greats, I got to reconnect with old leaders (think of them like the manager of a store) and other DCP Alumni. I stepped back and watched as Disney continued to serve so many people rather seamlessly. It is most definitely an inspiring feat that Disney has absolutely tackled.
With a sprinkle of pixie dust, I eargerly awaited sleep - and the next day.
Day 3: Character Palooza & A Night in Pandora
Day 3 started out just as magical as the others. I headed to meet my friends at the exclusive character palooza - seen above. What a treat - being able to meet characters you don’t normally get to see! I was so thrilled to be next to Jimney Cricket!
We spent our day at Hollywood Studios where I got to meet my favorites - Grogu and Mando. We did the lightning lane to Tower of Terror, said goodbye to Muppets, scored a storm trooper popcorn bucket from Kat Saka’s Kettle, and dared to try the new zuchii wrap at Ronto Roasters - spicy, but totally worth it.
Up next, taking advantage of the Pandora After Hours! Seeing the Animal Kingdom at night is always such a magical experience. We rode Navi River Journey, Flight of Passage (TWICE!), enjoyed some light desserts, and danced the night away.
One of my favorite features was the DJ’s set up. The ACE mixing board was transparent - we could see everything the DJ was mixing. With a full heart, I headed back to bed ready to eat around the world on my final day.
Bonus picture: my favorite Pandora drink from Pongu Pongu, a Night Blossom, and new snack, episoth seeds.
Day 4: Eating Around the World
The title says it all. I started my day at cast connections, grabbing discounted gifts for friends and loved ones. I spent the rest of the day eating around the world at Epcot.
Bonus: Megan (who is also from PGH) was at Disney at the same time! We met Tinker Bell and were able to share meals together. I’m not going to make you read about all the things I ate, but the food was nothing shy of amazing. If you make it to the end of the photos, you’ll even see the Figment cone I was able to try (bubblegum ice cream with a lavender cone) PLUS a bonus picture of my favorite candy.
Overall, I feel incredibly blessed to have connected with both new and old friends at the Walt Disney World Company. The Disney College Program had a profound impact on my outlook on life and business, shaping me in ways I never expected. The lessons I’ve learned, the friendships I’ve built, and the experiences I’ve gained will stay with me forever. As I move forward, I’ll carry the magic of Disney with me, using what I’ve learned to inspire and grow in both my personal and professional journey.
