For one thing, magic kingdom is a lot more complicated then Downtown Disney, specifically in terms of navigation. Magic Kingdom is famous for its utilidoors, an underground (well technically ground level) tunnel system beneath the elevated park that serves as the base for all cast members and operations backstage. One of the cool things when working at Magic Kingdom is getting to walk these tunnels and explore them everyday, but when you're new like me, they're super confusing and intimidating. I was used to the simplicity of Downtown Disney with its main walkway, that takes you to wherever it is you need to go. It's much more like a normal mall experience then Magic Kingdom. At Downtown Disney I just walk through the onstage area no problem, which is a major no-no at Magic!
Another difference between the two is the type of people you work with. Now, both sets of coworkers were amazing, but those at Magic Kingdom definitely skewed more towards my age, and thus we were able to really make a connection quicker than I could with my Downtown Disney coworkers. Most of my regular coworkers are much older than I am, and while they've been but kind to me, and have so many awesome stories to tell and advice to give, there's still a disconnect there from being at a completely different point in life than I am. This disconnect wasn't there as much at Magic Kingdom. Many of my coworkers were my age and many were on the same program as me, so the common ground instantly bonded us and I became quick friends with all of them. We've hung out outside of work and have become fast friends.
When I first started the program, I was disappointed that I wasn't placed in a park, specifically Magic Kingdom, and instead placed in Downtown Disney. I thought I'd hate not being in a park and that I'd be bored out of my mind with nothing to do. Not only has that not been true, but I've come to embrace downtown Disney as my home. Magic Kingdom was certainly loads of fun and a nice change up from the usual, but there was nothing like coming back to Downtown Disney reinvigorated and excited to see everybody! Just goes to show you that anyplace an become home, even the places you least expected. Now if you'll excuse me, it pool time! Love y'all lots!
