The DCP Series: Done.

"All the adversity I've had in my life, all my struggles and obstacles have strengthened me. You may not realize it when it happens, but a kick in the teeth may be the best thing in the world for you."

- Walt Disney

Walt was right, as he usually is when it comes to life experience. And four months later, I can wholeheartedly say that's what the Disney College Program was for me: a life experience. The DCP journey is a voyage of self-discovery and a rollercoaster of emotions. It's a constant reminder that every day can throw you through an unexpected loop or a sharp turn in another direction. But again, that's life.

The program isn't all stress and worry about what's to come. There's also an element of ever-growing excitement, a promise that tomorrow, while unknown, won't be anything like today. Each new day has the potential to be something incredible, something that many might not ever have the opportunity to see or hear or do, something...well, magical. But the magic and what made the entire experience was interacting with other CPs, making friends, and living in one of the most exciting cities in the US. Because if it weren't for that, the work and the idiotic management and the overall anal vibe that the Walt Disney Company exudes from its every orifice would be utterly intolerable. I won't get into the details of work or the daily grind of working for the Mouse, but just understand it's not glamorous and nothing like the recruiting videos.

I could talk all day about my mixed feelings about the various aspects of the program, but to sum it up...

- DON'T do the program if you're looking for an internship to learn a trade from.

- DON'T do the program if you think it will teach you anything that is directly applicable to a future job.

- DO the program if you want to get away from school/home/work for awhile.

- DO the program if you want to meet new people and have new experiences you wouldn't otherwise get the chance to experience.
- DO the program if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind life experience.

Would I do it over again if I could go back? Without a doubt. But would I ever consider doing another program? Not a chance. It's safe to assume that, by the end of the program, every CP knows whether he or she belongs at Disney. My verdict? A resounding no. Yours? That's entirely up to you.

Please, move your tassles to the left...

Yep, I'm officially a graduate.

I'm also officially exhausted, so I leave you with the speech I made at graduation. Enjoy.

Well guys, we made it. We’ve succeeded in completing what many set out to do but not all accomplish. For the past four years, we’ve worked our way through countless courses. We’ve built new friendships and strengthened old ones. We’ve faced good times and bad, we’ve learned, and we’ve moved on. High school has been quite an experience, one that we won’t soon forget.

 Truthfully, your high school experiences are all made up of personal choices. You chose whether to show up for school or sleep in. You chose whether to study for the big test or to just wing it. You even chose most of your classes. But to quote Coach Howard, the biggest choice you’ve made over these past four years is the quality of the education you will take away from South Doyle High school. Whether you worked hard and challenged yourself or barely slid by, where you are now is a factor that you determined for yourself. And this reigns true for life beyond high school as well. While other people may attempt to determine your life for you, in the end, you make the final decision.

Granted, the majority of us haven’t made it this far on our own. We’ve all stood on a lot of shoulders to get us to where we are now. Personally, I couldn’t have survived these past four years without the amazing support system I’ve been blessed with. I wanted to personally thank a few people who have been particularly prominent in my life.

First off, I’d like to thank my loving parents and family. Through the years, you’ve always been a source of encouragement as well as guidance. You’ve all stuck with me through thick and thin, and I couldn’t have asked for better people to raise me. I love each of you dearly, and I’m so grateful that you never gave up on me. Second, to my church family, I want to thank you for the years of love, prayer, and support you’ve always given me. You’re often the ones I depend on or turn to when I need support or encouragement, and I am truly grateful for that.

Also, to my teachers and counselors at South-Doyle, I want to thank you for putting up with me and always doing your best to help me succeed. You’ve all had an impact on my life in one way or another, and I will never forget all you’ve done for me. You guys are what make our school tick, so thank you for that.

And last but not least, I give thanks and praise to my Heavenly Father who has given me confidence through the good times and coached me through the tough ones. Without His love and His guidance, I wouldn’t be standing here speaking to you today, but as Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Well, that’s all I’ve got. Congratulations, class of 2010. It’s been a long journey, but we made it. Good luck to everyone, and I wish you happiness and success in whatever you set out to do in the future. Thank you for an exciting four years, and God bless all of you.