Info Post #4: A quick rundown of the roles.

For a brief and official overview of all the roles and their descriptions, your best bet is to visit the Disney College Program site here. In this post, I'll be elaborating on some (but not all) roles based on what I've read on the DisBoards and in blogs.


Attractions
Can include working traditional "rides" like Splash Mountain, Expedition Everest, etc, but keep in mind that things like Innoventions, DisneyQuest, and the stage shows fall into this as well. I've heard of people who loved their experience at Innoventions but as far as I can tell DisneyQuest is more of a toss-up.

Spieling rides like Jungle Cruise and the Great Movie Ride are incredibly difficult to get. The Haunted Mansion is one of the most-requested rides - I'll bet you're more likely to get a job at Kilimanjaro Safari than as a HM servant. However, if you'd like to work at a specific attraction, it doesn't hurt to email the program and tell them so! Nothing is guaranteed, but it certainly won't harm you! (Like if I get Attractions you can BET I'm requesting Jungle Cruise or Tower of Terror!)

Character Attendant
Whereas before, CAs could work at any of the four parks throughout their program, these CPs are now being bid at just one park. However, CAs are able to pick up shifts at any of the four parks. Duties may include things like assisting your characters, keeping the queue orderly, answering questions, and (most importantly) insuring the safety of your characters. Generally the hours are pretty manageable, from what I've heard (in terms of having really late shifts and the like).

Full-Service Food and Beverage
Keep in mind that this is a non-tipped role and you are a host/hostess, not a server! However, people who have worked in this role really enjoyed it. As one blog puts it, FSFB offers "a great mix of personal freedom, responsibility and its own share of fun moments, given its high guest interaction. Better still, a lot of these roles take place in a highly themed, fast-paced and dynamic environment."

Given the huge amount and diversity of full-service restaurants in WDW, this role offers a ton of different opportunities! Again, if you want to work a specific restaurant, go ahead and request it via email. You probably won't get California Grill though - I've heard people basically have to die for a position to open up there. (But that was in reference to the servers, so who really knows?)

Quick Service Food and Beverage
This role includes both counter-service restaurants like Pecos Bill Cafe and Columbia Harbour House as well as the outdoor snack carts and snack windows (outdoor foods). You will work both in the kitchen and at the register unless you are specifically working the QSFB - Kitchen Only role.

Vacation Planner
You know those ticket windows you pass on your way into the theme parks? The people in those booths are Vacation Planners, responsible for selling ticket media to guests. Think of it like a movie-theatre box office. Vacation Planners are the ultimate resource for the different admission options available and will also assist guests in planning their days at the park.

Given the nature of what you're selling, expect to handle large amounts of cash during your shift. Though there is an emphasis on "upselling" tickets, you'll also have plenty of opportunities to assist guests in planning their visits and ensuring they have a magical experience. Depending on the time of day, you may be working under a fair amount of pressure - lines can get long and guests are rearin' to go, so be prepared for that as well. From what I understand, there's also a certain quota you must meet each day as a Vacation Planner CM.

Costuming
This role covers Entertainment Costuming, not regular Costuming where all CMs pick up their costumes (uniforms). You will be assisting Entertainment CMs, working with parades and possibly shows, and doing laundry.

Hospitality
Hospitality CPs can work three different "sub-roles": Front Desk, Lobby Concierge, and Runner. Front Desk involves checking guests into the hotel - which I think sounds pretty cool because you get to kick off their whole Disney vacation experience! Lobby Concierge is pretty self-explanatory - you are stationed in the lobby to answer guest questions, sell tickets, make ADRs (or whatever Disney's calling them now), etc. Runners ... well, they run items at guests' requests.

Hospitality has the potential for weird shifts because the resorts never close. It's also more difficult to get, especially if you're not a hospitality major/don't have prior experience in guest service. I'm going to try for it anyway though! (See Vlog.)

Well, that's it for this entry! If you have any further questions I'll try my best to answer them, and if I don't have an answer I'll lead you to someone who does!

The next info post will feature...
Entertainment!!! Yay! 

Info Post #3: The Phone Interview

So you've submitted your written application, passed the web-based interview, and set up a time for your phone interview. Whew! For some applicants, this is easily the most nerve-wracking part of the process. I've heard of interviews lasting anywhere from 10 minutes to upwards of half an hour. Generally they fall somewhere in the middle. Disney says to expect a 20-30 minute length.

Disney also provides the following tips for interviewees:

• Limit noise and distractions. 
• If possible, avoid using a cell phone because of possible issues with weak signal, etc.
• If a "Blocked" or "Unknown" caller calls around the time of your interview, make sure you answer because it's probably Disney!
• Prepare for your interview!
• Familiarize yourself with the roles and which ones you'd be comfortable performing.
• Check your availability and familiarize yourself with the time frames of the program seasons!
• Be prepared to discuss your background and interests. As Disney puts it, "You will be asked about the one topic that you know more than anyone else, YOU!"
• Make a list of questions for your interviewer.
• Be prepared about 5 to 10 minutes ahead of your scheduled interview time.
  
• But at the same time, be sure you're at least somewhat relaxed. That might mean something as simple as taking a few deep breaths.
• Take notes.
• Take your time - a moment of silence while you collect your thoughts is perfectly okay!

It's also helpful to have your application handy, since you will be going over it during the interview. And, if you're slightly OCD like I am, it might help to jot down a few things you'd like to mention about your strengths, especially in guest service. If you like, it might be nice to have a copy of your resume with you as well.

A tip I've heard over and over again is to smile during your interview. Sure, it sounds dorky, but it really does change the tone in your voice and your interviewer will probably notice a more enthusiastic tone. Try to answer the questions completely yet as succinctly as possible - not an easy feat for a chatterbox like myself. It’s okay to take a moment to think about your answer, and remember that silence is preferable to “um,” “uh,” and “like!”

Generally, interviews follow a pretty similar pattern:

1. Review application and role checklist.
2. Why are you interested in the CP/why do you want to work for Disney?
3. Probably some questions about work flexibility and handling a difficult situation or person, and how you resolved the conflict/situation.
4. Some kind of question regarding previous work experience.
5. The interviewer will then move to asking questions about specific roles on your checklist. Some great advice I’ve heard repeatedly is that if you’re unsure, err on the side of guest safety and happiness. I’ve collected a bunch of previously asked questions from people on the DisBoards, so if you’re interested let me know!
6. You may be asked about the best guest service you’ve ever experienced, Disney or otherwise.
7. Something about how receptive you are to living with others - basically you should be receptive to whatever living situation Disney has available, I think. The interviewer may include a question about dealing with roommate conflicts.
8. Finally, it’s your turn to ask questions! And be sure to thank your interviewer!

Up next... (hopefully next week but don't hold me to it!) Info Post #4: The Roles!

Info Post #2: So You Want to Do a Disney College Program.

Or, The Application Process.

First of all, it's an excellent idea to make sure you meet the application requirements before going forward with your application. You must:

• be enrolled as a full-time or part-time student and taking classes. High-school seniors with dual enrollment are not eligible to apply. You must have completed one semester of school. As long as you are taking classes at the time you apply, you can do the CP - so graduating seniors can apply while still in school and do the program immediately following graduation.
  
• meet your school's requirements for participation.
• be at least 18 years old by the time your program begins.
• have unrestricted work authorization.
  

More information, especially about the first point, can be found here.

Okay, then - on to the actual application process!

Step One: View the online E-Presentation.
I recommend the E-Presentation as opposed to the campus presentation because it is almost always available before the first campus presentation, and the sooner you apply, the better. Let me repeat that, because it's important: The sooner you apply, the better! As far as I can tell, acceptance to the Disney College Program is done on a rolling basis. If you want to view a campus presentation as well, you can always do so after your application is in - personally, I'll probably do both myself, because I've heard the live presentations are fun to go to and there's a chance to win Disney swag!

Step Two: Complete the Online Application/Role Checklist
The following roles are available: Attractions, Bell Services/Dispatch, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Hostess, Concierge, Character Attendant, Custodial, Full Service Food and Beverage, Hopper, Hospitality, Housekeeping, Lifeguard, Main Entrance Operations, Merchandise, PhotoPass Photographer, Quick Service Food and Beverage, Recreation, Resort Hopper, Transportation, Vacation Planner, Costuming (backstage role), Quick Service - Kitchen Only (backstage role), Character Performer, Culinary Assistant - Cook II, and Culinary Assistant - Baking and Pastry.

The Culinary Program differs slightly from the "regular" program. I'm not in culinary school, so my knowledge of the culinary aspect of the CP is limited to what's available on the WDWCP website!

So, that's a grand total of 24 roles available! Another valuable piece of advice: Checking off more roles greatly improves your chances of getting into the program - especially if you are willing to do QSFB or custodial. (From what I've heard Custodial can be loads of fun, actually.)

I'll talk more about the different roles and their descriptions in a later entry - and Entertainment will probably get a separate entry talking about the audition process and whatnot.

Step Three: Complete the Web-Based Interview
Ah, the dreaded new step: the Web-Based Interview! Sadly, this simple survey/GALLUP poll can make or break your college program dreams. It's something a lot of employers are using these days, and thanks to the DisBoards, I've been able to find some great tips to help you pass! Unfortunately, some Spring 2010 hopefuls learned this the hard way, as they were the first to take the "web-based interview."

• Take a deep breath! Read the questions carefully. There are very few trick questions.
  
• Avoid "neutral," "agree," and "disagree" - pick stronger answers. However, they might throw in a negative question after a bunch of positive ones, so watch out for that.
  
• Make sure your answers are consistent with each other. Some of the questions will be the same, just phrased differently, so make sure your answers are the same/similar.
  
• Think about yourself in a work environment, even working at Disney if it helps. Don't picture yourself in a school or social environment as they may handle things differently.
  
• It's timed, so make sure to answer all questions.

Step Four: Notification
You will be notified immediately whether or not you passed the web interview. If you did, you will be invited to set up your phone interview. After the phone interview, you will receive notification regarding your acceptance into the program in approximately four to six weeks.

Ah, yes, the phone interview. Considered by some to be the most nerve-wracking part of the process - personally I'm afraid the entire thing will be completely nerve-wracking, but that's just me!

Luckily for you, I will be updating shortly with...
Info Post #3: The Phone Interview!