Euclid High School Junior Justin Allen has been selected for the Disney Dreamers Academy, an honor reserved for just 100 high school students nationwide, out of more than 20,000 applicants. This highly competitive program is hosted each year at Disney World, providing young leaders with mentorship, career exploration, and life-changing experiences. Justin will represent Euclid Schools on this national stage when he flies down to Florida from March 26-29.
Justin learned the exciting news on January 15 then a special envelope from Disney arrived at his home. Encouraged by his mother to apply, he admits he wasn’t even sure he wanted to apply because he didn’t think his chances were high. The application required thoughtful, personal responses about his dreams, challenges and inspirations. Justin finished his application with only minutes to spare before the deadline. Now, he is headed to Orlando for an all-expenses-paid experience designed to help turn big dreams into real futures.
For Justin, that dream centers on becoming a professional chef.
A student in our Culinary Arts Career Tech Program, he has already discovered a passion for creating food that brings people together. Through the Dreamers Academy, Disney will tailor experiences to match his interests – giving him the opportunity to explore Disney’s world-renowned food operations, meet professional (and maybe even celebrity) chefs, and build high-level connections in the culinary industry.
“There’s nothing I’m not excited about,” Justin said. “I get to meet a bunch of other people like me who want to pursue their dreams. High-level people will give speeches and help give me experiences. Plus connections. I get to put this on my resume and college applications. And I’ve never been to Disney.”
Justin’s application revealed the heart behind his ambition. He wrote about wanting to create opportunities not just for himself, but for others, and how food can be a universal way to bring joy. He also shared how personal experiences, faith, and mentorship from his uncle helped shape his character. He learned lessons of kindness, resilience and the importance of helping those in need. His ultimate goal is to innovate in the culinary field, even imagining ways to make fine dining more accessible for people with disabilities and provide five-star cuisine for those experiencing homelessness.
The Disney Dreamers Academy is designed to be more than just a one weekend trip, students attend workshops on leadership, entrepreneurship, and career readiness while hearing from celebrities, business leaders and Disney professionals. Justin will also be joined by his mother, who is invited to attend at no cost.
We’re extremely proud to celebrate Justin’s achievement. His selection reflects not only his talent and determination, but also the strength of Euclid’s academic and Career Tech programs.
As Justin prepares for the adventure ahead, he hopes to inspire other Euclid Students to apply for the Dreamers Academy, or other national programs. “I hope I can be an example that it’s possible.”