Off to Neverland: English major joins the Disney College Program
By English department staff
Leah Pagan grew up knowing that one day she would work for the Walt Disney Company.
Her fascination with animated movies (or, as she used to pronounce them, “moochies”) began at an early age. She forced her parents to constantly rerun her favorite films: Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and Wall-E.
As a child, Pagan also wanted to be a writer, an animator, and a fairy princess. Choosing which one she enjoyed more, dressing up as princess Ariel or drawing her, was difficult for Pagan.
Her decisionmaking process has not become easier as she enters her final year at Florida State University. Except for the unfortunate removal of “fairy princess” from her list of career choices.
Propelled by her love of 2D-animated films, Pagan pursues a Bachelor of Arts dual degree in English-Creative Writing and studio art.
In the Fall 2026 semester, Pagan will finally achieve her dream of working for the Disney company as a PhotoPass Photographer in the Disney College Program. The program gives students the opportunity to experience a professional affiliation with Disney through work as a cast member at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.
Pagan took her first trip to Walt Disney World when she was four months old; now 20, she has lost count of how many times she has been to the most magical place on earth.
“At this point, Disney World feels like a second home to me,” Pagan says, laughing at her connection to the park. “Friends always turn to me for advice before a Disney trip. I know all the good restaurants, merch deals, and shortcuts to rides.”
Current Disney College Program participant Paige Becwar grew up in Orlando, and she also was a frequent visitor to Disney’s parks throughout her life. She graduated from the University of Alabama in May 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in apparel and textiles.
Like Pagan, cast members at the park encouraged Becwar to brave the “big-girl rides,” creating lifelong memories with friends and family.
“As a cast member, I wanted to pay it forward to kids who were just like me and bring the magic to families who desperately needed it like I did growing up,” says Becwar, who now works at The World of Disney in Disney Springs, the resort’s largest retail Disney store.
Pagan first applied to the Disney College Program in her sophomore year of college so she could attend in the first semester of junior year. Due to unforeseen circumstances, however, she declined her original offer and reapplied for the Fall 2026 semester.
“My Disney journey has been two years in the making,” Pagan adds. “After I graduate from FSU, I plan to use my experience to apply to positions within Disney’s animation outlets.”
FSU student Megan Mumma is not waiting until graduation to pursue her career with Disney. She completed the Disney College Program in January 2026 and accepted a part-time position to promote the program on FSU’s campus. She is also earning her bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism management.
During her nine months in Orlando, Mumma worked at Hollywood Studios as a Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Attractions Cast Member (aiding the light side of the force). She says the experience helped her expand her skills in guest service, problem solving, and safety issues.
The application process also allowed Mumma to hone her professionalism skills.
“As a hospitality student, I am constantly learning about career readiness, resume building, and how to make a lasting impression,” she says. “All those skills helped me during the interview and application process.”
Pagan cringes when reflecting on her first interview for the Disney College Program.
“My two applications could not have been more different,” she explains. “During my first interview, I focused a lot on my marketing experiences, so much so that I thought I wouldn’t be a good fit. The second time, I made sure to tailor my experiences to responsibilities within the park.”
When Disney first accepted Pagan, her email inbox filled with congratulations from past participants, including Mumma and Becwar.
“The support was so overwhelming,” Pagan says, smiling at the memory. “I immediately felt like part of the community. Even when I told them that I was going to reapply next year, they encouraged me and gave me some great advice.”
For example, Becwar says applicants should be open-minded and lean into their emotional side in the cover letter.
“Disney thrives off people trying something new and stepping out of the crowd,” Becwar says, “so do not be afraid to show some personality and try.”
Mumma adds her advice for the telephone interview: “Be yourself, show your passion, and share experiences that showcase your skills,” she says.
Pagan’s assignment for the program is to be a PhotoPass Photographer, which was her first choice because the position is related to graphic design. She is excited to embrace her role and spread some extra pixie dust at the Walt Disney World Resort.
“I know I didn’t win the Super Bowl,” she exclaims, “but I’m saying this anyway: ‘I’m going to Disney World.’”
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