5 Tips for Applying To the Disney College Program
I applied to the Disney College Program (DCP) in March 2014 after attending a WDW character performer audition. Even though I had completed the rounds of the audition, I was almost too nervous to apply to the DCP. I forced myself to complete the application. Little did I know I was starting an experience of a lifetime...
Applying to DCP is exciting, but also nerve-racking. There are many "hoops" to jump through, and it may even become overwhelming.
Therefore, I wanted to share a few thoughts regarding the Disney College Program application process in hopes that it will encourage you apply!
1. Don't rush: The entire application process has multiple steps and spans over a few weeks, but the initial application can take 45 minutes to an hour to complete. I recommend finding a quiet place to focus on filling out the information required. While it's an exciting time, don't rush through it. I accidentally wrote something wrong in my application, and it was a long, aggravating process to correct my mistake when I was offered the job. So do yourself a favor and read everything carefully.
2. Rank Wisely: As part of the application, you will choose which ‘roles’ you are interested in by ranking them from a range of "Extremely Interested" to "No Interest." Disney is looking for flexible, happy people who are willing to do hard work, so be mindful of that if you check "no interest" for custodial or housekeeping.
A few of the roles include: Food & Beverage Merchandise Attractions Custodial Main Entrance Operations Hopper Photopass Photographer Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Character Attendant Costuming Hospitality Concierge Housekeeping Vacation Planning Transportation Lifeguard Recreation
For the full list of positions, click here. Be sure to read the descriptions carefully.
3. Complete Web-based interview: Once you have filled out the main application, you will be asked to complete a web-based interview! It took a fairly long time to complete give yourself an hour (in a quiet space!) to complete this. I remember the web-based interview was kind of fun - like a personality quiz you take on Buzzfeed or something. I believe it was multiple choice and "yes-no" format. Be sure to think through the questions and provide honest answers.
Sample web-based interview questions: - Are you often on-time or late? - Are you an organized or disorganized person? - Do you like working alone or with a team? - What would you do if you saw a small child fall off a swing?
4. Be true to yourself: Being a Disney-lover doesn’t mean you will love working at Disney. You may think you want to work at Disney World, but if you don’t like hanging out with children or being in the heat, it may not be a good fit for you. (Any why be miserable at the happiest place on earth?) While you want to put your best foot forward, you also want to be sincere.
5. "So what happens next???"
If you are cut after the web-based interview - don't sweat it. You can always reapply. I have several friends who reapplied and attended several auditions before being accepted. They are doing all sorts of neat things at Disney! It's a complex system, and since Disney is always looking for different types of people, it's silly to believe that you "aren't good enough" or "aren't pretty enough." It just couldn't be further from the truth - so don't let it bring you down!
Depending on the results of the web-based interview, you may be asked to complete a phone interview. You will sign up for a time to speak with a casting director. You may have to wait two to three weeks to speak with a casting director, but definitely use that time to prepare for your phone interview.
For more information about the phone interview - check out "7 Tips to Rock Your Disney Phone Interview." I included sample interview questions as well as other that may come in handy.
Working at Disney is truly an extraordinary experience, and if it is something you think you would enjoy, then definitely consider applying! Don't let fear or uncertainty hold you back from doing something really amazing!
Feel free to ask any questions about the DCP (or general application!) If you are applying for DCP, know that I'm sending pixie dust your way!