The Application Process: As Told by Taylor

Hey gang. So today I thought I'd like to break down the application process from beginning to end, then I'll give my timeline just for some point of reference. I will be breaking up the various components of the application process into different posts, because this shiz is way too long for one post.

Keep in mind that the application process can change every season. This season for example has been very different from previous seasons as I've mentioned in some previous posts. I'll also talk about some of the differences between this season (Spring 2015) and past ones.

Step 1: The Application Itself

So you want to apply for the Disney College Program, eh? Well, what you're gonna do is go to disneycollegeprogram.com and click the big green button that says "Apply Now" and click the link to the application. Applications will go up sometime in late August/early September for Spring programs, and late January/early February for Fall programs.

So, the application for the Disney College Program is super basic and simple, and shouldn't take you more than 45 minutes to complete. You enter your general information like name, address, school, majors, etc.

Then they'll ask you for your preferences of the program. Do you want Walt Disney World or Disneyland? Do you want Spring or Spring Advantage (or Fall/Fall Advantage)? *Note: Only for Walt Disney World can you choose the length of your program. Disneyland's program is the same length for everyone*

The next big part is your work experience. Put all you can. I can't stress this enough. Whether its volunteer experience, unpaid internship work, etc.- put it down because you never know what will help you most. There is a limit as to how many positions you can put in, but if you get to that point, my advice is to put the most relevant and recent positions.

After that, the last big thing is your preferences in roles. They'll list all 20 roles offered for the College Program, and ask you to select a level of interest in all these. You can put High, Moderate, Low, or No Interest. If you want to change this after your application is submitted, you can do so in your phone interview, but that's it. They will also give you a brief description of job duties for each role, so you have a more informed decision. That information is also available on their website, under the Earning tab.

You'll receive an e-mail after submitting the application, letting you know that not all people are asked to take a web interview and the latest day you could hear back. If you check your dashboard and you see the words "In Submission", that means you may not get a web-based interview. If you see "Action Required", that means a web interview is on the way!

Tips:  When selecting interest in roles, consider what roles you would be willing to do for 4-7 months straight. Know yourself and think about this before you apply. I want to do the College Program, but I am not willing to clean for 5 months to get there. Hence, no interest in custodial or housekeeping. I can swim but I don't think I'd want to be a lifeguard for 5 months. Low interest. Stuff like that!

What's coming up? I'll talk about the web-based interview!

'Til next time!