**William Rath Reflects on His Experience as a Disney Safari Driver**
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In May 2022, William Rath embarked on a unique adventure by joining the Disney College Program in Orlando, Florida. Rath, who has always lived in the vicinity of Walt Disney World, had long contemplated participating in this prestigious programme. With a college degree in hand and a semester to spare before attending law school, he decided to apply, hoping it would enhance his résumé while allowing him to indulge in his passion for Disney.
The Disney College Program offers a diverse range of roles, and Rath was fortunate to land a position as a driver for the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction. He noted that there are various positions within the programme, from custodial work to attractions, with the latter being highly coveted among participants. Rath believes his background in studying abroad in Africa may have played a part in his selection for this role.
At Kilimanjaro Safaris, guests embark on an open-air vehicle tour of a meticulously crafted African savannah, home to a variety of animals, including giraffes and kudu. Rath described the training process as “intense” yet relatively brief. On his very first day, he was presented with what is referred to as the “spiel book,” a comprehensive guide detailing numerous facts for each animal featured on the ride. “I had to memorise four facts for each animal in just two days,” Rath recalled, reflecting on the rapid pace of his preparation.
Driving the large safari vehicles, which can accommodate up to 36 passengers, was another component of Rath’s training. He remembered being slightly daunted by the responsibility of manoeuvring such large machinery, especially given that the concrete paths could easily lead to flat tyres. The instructor emphasised the importance of safety checks, with Rath being required to familiarise himself with an extensive checklist comprising over 40 safety items.
As the training progressed, Rath faced the challenge of delivering the safari narration to a live audience. By the third or fourth day, he was expected to conduct the spiel for the first time, a task he found to be quite nerve-wracking. “The first time is always rough,” he admitted. “You feel embarrassed when you get facts wrong and can sense your nerves making the experience even more challenging.” This aspect of the training tested both his public speaking skills and his knowledge retention.
In addition to mastering the spiel and safety protocols, Rath confronted the logistical challenge of loading and unloading guests efficiently. Each new truck needed to be ready for departure within a strict nine-minute window, a tight timeline that added pressure to the already demanding role. “If a new truck does not leave on time, it holds up the entire ride,” he explained. Mastering these time-related tasks became one of the most complex elements of his training.
Despite the challenges, Rath found his work on Kilimanjaro Safaris both fulfilling and exhilarating. The thrill of guiding guests through a vibrant ecosystem while sharing his knowledge of the animal inhabitants made for an enriching experience. He enjoyed engaging with visitors and helping them connect with nature in a way that was both entertaining and educational.
Rath’s time at Disney not only provided him with invaluable job experience but also allowed him to strengthen bonds with fellow cast members from around the world. The camaraderie among staff members added a sense of community to the pressures of the role, making the challenges more manageable and enjoyable. “Everyone supported one another,” he said, highlighting the collaborative atmosphere fostered within the park.
As he reflects on his experience at Disney and what lies ahead as he transitions into law school, Rath is grateful for the memories and skills he developed during his role at Kilimanjaro Safaris. The combination of excitement, education, and teamwork makes his time as a safari driver a cherished chapter in his life. Whether or not he pursues a legal career, the lessons learned at Disney will undoubtedly serve him well in any future endeavours.