The DCP Spring 2014 Application Season has Ended

On November 15th, 2014, the Disney College Program application season has officially ended. No more applications can be submited and anyone waiting to hear back from Disney should have received an answer from recruiting regarding their application status.

The ability to actually submit an application ended on October 31st, 2014. However, for individuals who did not receive a Web Based Interview (WBI), were pended, completed restricted hire papers, and did additional background checks will receive a final answer on or before November 15th, 2014.

Although, there is strong possibility individuals could be contacted after this date to participate in the program. There have been stories of some applicants receiving an acceptances from Disney Recruiting in December!

Rumors of applicants who have been NLIC'd (No Longer In Consideration), have been contacted in the past to participate in the program. The possibilities are endless when it comes to the DCP Recruiting team.

To those NLIC'd, please keep your head up . . . your time is coming soon. There maybe bigger and better things waiting for you. Patience is a virtue. The Fall 2014 Facebook page has been created . . . join it now!

To those accepted . . . Congratulations! I hope you receive your postcard and onboarding email. Remember to register classes (if you want) . . . go here. The Disney Look email has reportedly been sent out in the last week. I have yet to receive mine. *sigh*

I can't wait to see everyone in Florida!!!

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Disney College Program Interview Questions & Answers

Here is my Disney College Program Interview Cheat sheet. I was asked about 90% of the questions on this sheet except for the Merchandise questions. So, this was a solid interview cheat sheet for me.

I put this in a Word document, edited it to fit my needs, and printed the sheet out on the day of my Interview. The "Tips for Interview" part was for me personally. LOL! Most of these were my personal thoughts and answers. Majority of it came out very different that what I typed.

My interviewer was extremely nice and bubbly. The interview was 20 minutes long and she called 5 minutes before my schedule time. She spoke really fast, but at the same time, I didn't feel rushed. 

Many people ask, "When do I request a location?". Well, at the end of every interview, the recruiter asks, "Do you have any questions for me?". That is YOUR moment!!!!! I don't know why there is so much confusion about when to ask! LOL!

Disney Questions

Recruiter’s Name: ______________________________

TIPS FOR THE INTERVIEW:

* SMILE!! * TALK SLOWLY & CLEARLY * BE ENTHUSIASTIC * BE HAPPY

* DON'T SAY -  “UM” just pause - “LIKE” use for example - “Yeah” – yes or absolutely

NOTES : 
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

Program Questions

• Why do you want to do the Walt Disney World College Program?
  • No one can really answer this for you. Even though, I typed up the somewhat generic answer below to help arrange my thought, I ended up speaking from the heart. 
  • My answer came out 10 times better, than what's on this cheat sheet because I was honest and really wanted my recruiter to know how I truly feel about the program. My recruiter ended up loving my honest and heartfelt answer!!
  • My Generic Answer: Ever since I completed my last program, Disney has remained strong on my resume and I have been offered many opportunities because of the DCP. Being a part of the DCP, taught me independence and responsibility. I want truly want to experience this amazing opportunity again. I enjoyed meeting new people and improving my work skills, so to sum it up . . . I honestly miss Disney!
• What are you most looking forward to?
  • I looking forward to the opportunity to create memorable experiences for guest and working with cast members from all over the world. Living in Florida, the warm weather, and roommates.
• What does Disney mean to you?
  • When I hear the word Disney I think of magic, family and happily ever after. To me Disney means making guests dreams come true.
• What can you offer the company?
  • I can offer a positive attitude, hard-work and honesty. I can help keep the magic going throughout the parks and resorts. Be professional and a team player towards my fellow cast members.
• What would you look for in a CP applicant? Good candidate for the Program?
  • A good CP would be an individual who is responsible, has a strong work ethic and can maintain professionalism while working well with others.
• How will the college program help you professionally?
  • The college program will help me ___________________________________________. Mention your future plans, skills you will gain, connections that will be made, etc.
• Are you willing to maintain the Disney look?
  • Answer Yes or No
• Have you ever been to Disney World/Disneyland? Did you like it and why?
  • Answer Yes or No.

Work Related

• Do you mind working outside in the Florida heat or inside in cold air conditioning?
  • No, I do not mind. 
• Would you rather work independently or in a group setting? A slow or fast-paced environment?
  • I wouldn’t mind either situation because I consider myself a diverse individual and I adapt well to any situation.
• How would you handle an emergency?
  • In emergency, I would stay calm, abscess the situations and look for potential dangers and evacuate guest to a safe place. I would then get further instructions from my coordinators and/or managers.
• How would you handle a guest who doesn’t speak English but clearly needs help?
  • If a guest did not speak English, I would ask another cast member or direct to guest services (if available or close by) to translate . If no one speaks the language (this has happened to me at All Star) then I would use pictures or items to describe what they wanted or needed.
• Do you mind working mornings, evenings, late nights, weekends, and holidays?
  • I do not mind.
• How would your coworkers describe you in 3 words?
  • My co-workers would describe me as ________________________________.
• How would you interact with guest? Make a guest’s day?
  • To interact with guest, I would address children as princess, pirates, and cowboys’ or address them by the theme of my location or attraction. I would also speak with anyone who has a pin for example “Happy Birthday!”, or “what are you celebrating?” or “how is your first day in the park?” I would also do water mickeys if in custodial, pin trading for merchandise, suggest magical poses in character attendant, stickers in attractions. I would also do hula hoop, trivia, balloons, games, and other activities based on my role and location.
• At which park or resort would you prefer to work? (Tip: take a look at the location’s hours, attractions, restaurants, shops, etc. before you make your selection.)
  • My preference is 

Roles Related Questions

• What are your top 3 to 5 roles?
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• What are your past job experiences and how do they relate to the roles you chose?
  • If you're asked this question, list each role, the experience, and the reasons you chose this role. Even after answering this question, you may be asked more questions "AGAIN" about each role.

Character Attendant

• Why Character Attendant?
  • I understand what it means to keep character integrity and create magic. I have no problem answering questions all day. I would love sharing information about the parks and the best times to meet characters.
• How is _____________ in two parks at once?
  • They use tinker bells pixie dust to move between parks.
• Why can’t characters talk?
  • They must save their voice for the show!!
• What would you do if a child being rough with the character?
  • I would get the character a safe distance away from the child then ask the child nicely to think about the characters feelings and tell them it makes them sad. Maybe have my character make a sad face or motions so the child can understand it hurts them. Explain that they want to be friends. I would also ask the parents to step in and help create and keep the magic. *Call security as last resort
• What does character integrity mean to you?
  • Character integrity means preserving the magic. There is only one Mickey Mouse, saying things such as he doesn't go to the bathroom, but he is going to get have lunch with Minnie or Buzz needs some batteries. Also, when outside of work or off the clock it’s important to say you’re friends with “Mulan” or “Goofy”.
• What would you do if a child was afraid of a character?
  • Be creative with this answer. Mention characters and something funny.
• What would you tell guests if you had to turn them away because a line was closed for the day?
  • I would apologize and give them the next time and location that this particular character will be available and also inform them of any characters in the park at this very moment and the location of these characters. I would also recommend some good times to see their favorite character.

Attractions

• How do you feel speaking in front of large groups?
  • Use school presentations for projects,any church or club functions, drama clubs or classes, public speaking classes . . . use anything.
• What would you do if a 4 year old girl wanted to ride Space Mountain but she was too short?
  • If a child is too short to ride, I would apologize and tell them they are a little too short to ride this ride but I can show them some awesome rides in the park that are just as cool. I would then ask the parents for their map and then mark or show them all the attractions the child can get on. I would then give the children stickers or something cool to make them feel better and encourage them to return when their taller.
• If you were doing a task that was repetitive (spiels), how would you keep yourself interested in it?
  • I would find ways to get guest excited. I would say my spiels in as many exciting voices or tones as I can. I would find little games like “who can be the loudest” or “who can find a hidden mickey”. I would move around a little bit or wave to guest about to take off on a ride.

Merchandise

• If a package of chips comes at $1.50 each, and a guest wants 3, and gives you $10, how much change do you give back?
  • I would give $5.50.
• What would you do if someone wanted an item, and the shop was out of it?
  • I would apologize for not having the items in stock. I would call down to the stockroom and ask them if the items are available . . . if so I would have them send it up. If it’s not available, I can tell them where to find it or possibly have it ordered to their room or reserved. But an effort will definitely made to find their requested item.
• What would you do if a guest wanted a specific item that you did not carry anywhere in your park?
  • I would tell them what park has the items or refer them to Downtown Disney ‘s, World of Disney store, since they have many of the same items and it’s on of the biggest Disney merchandise stores. Also, ask check if it’s online. Maybe offer to reserve or order the item.
• You will have to be able to pin trade with customers, will you be comfortable with children touching your lanyard and asking to trade?
  • Yes. I want the guest to have the most memorable experiences.
• If your phone is ringing, you are checking a person out, and someone in the store needs help with an item… what do you do first, second, and last?
  • Answer the phone and ask them to hold, apologize to checkout customer and then answers the customer question.

Custodial

• Have you ever had experience cleaning?
  • Use any previous experience. 
• Are you allergic to any chemicals, cleaning supplies, or latex?
  • Answer, yes or no.
• Can you handle talking to multiple people and multi-tasking?
  • Use past experiences. 
• Can you handle working outside for up to 8 hours a day?
  • Use past examples

Questions for the Interviewer

• Yes, can I request a park location at this time.
• Have you done the DCP before? How did you like it? Where did you work?
• Tell me about your Disney Career?
• Do you have any magical moments or experiences?
• How do non-credit classes work with the DCP? The most classes? How does it work with my work schedule? Recommended? Did you take any Disney Classes?
• What kind of qualities does Disney look for in future CPs?
• Can you explain the Disney Look?
• Glasses black frame fine as well as transition lenses?
• When will I hear back about if I am accepted or not?

Be prepared to answers question, such as:

• Tell me about a time you were a team player?
• Name a time when you went out of you're way for a guest or made guest feel special?
• How would you handle an emergency?
• Tell me about a time when you had to handle an emergency? (I had this one!!)
• Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult guest, co-worker or manager?
• Name something you didn't like about your past jobs?
• What are your weaknesses and strengthens?

The recruiter may ask, say, or word questions like this after you tell them about your past experiences:

For example, my interviewer noticed on my application, I went to China. She asked me, “While you were in China, how did you communicate with people?”. Instead of asking me, “How would you handle a guest that couldn't speak English?”.

My interviewer even asked me some questions twice but worded differently. Also, I may have answered a question early on in the interview, but the Interviewer will ask the questions anyway.

For example, when she asked me to list my top 3 roles and why I chose those roles, I mention Character Attendant and said I talked about my knowledge of Character Integrity.

Later on, while asking role specific questions, for Character Attendant, she asked me, “What does Character Integrity mean to you?”. This happened more than once during my interview. 

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Disney College Program Fees

What are the fees for the Disney College Program?

After accepting your Disney College Program offer, you will be notified that the next step in the program is to pay your program fees. Paying your program fees is apart the application process and the way to secure your  role/slot in the program. The fees pay for housing and rent for the first two weeks.

A break down of the fees:

These non-refundable fees must be paid as a single credit card payment at the time you accept your invitation to participate on the program: 

• $100 Program Assessment fee (non-refundable)
  Helps support the events and activities scheduled in the housing complexes throughout the program
• $200 Housing and Administration fee (non-refundable)
  Will be applied to the participant's housing costs during the first few weeks of the program.
• Minimal processing fee ( about $4.50)

As you can see the program fees are necessary for securing your spot in the program. Paying fees is Step Two in the process. Remember you have 10 days to complete all three steps.

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How to pass the Web Base Interview?

How to pass the Disney College Program web base interview?

Web Based Interview is often shortened to WBI. Also remember that not everyone will receive a web based interview. The WBI is also a timed survey so please allow at least 45 minutes to 1 hour in a quiet space.

There is no real strategy to pass the web based interview. Some same be honest (and you should) or tell the what the want to hear.

In my opinion, both of these are correct. You should be honest but realistic.The most important is to be CONSISTENT. The answers will be asked multiple time but worded differently. Use good judgement. 

The answer options range from Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree. It is often debated if you should put more strongly agree answers, a few neutrals, a few strongly disagrees. You'll see this often.

I noticed the way the questions was worded in the survey, that I leaned more to the strongly agree answers. Som questions were worded strange so I'd answer neutral and some questions were obvious (to me) so I put Strongly Disagree. 

No matter what I made sure to remain consistent in my answers during the survey. I took my time and read each question thoroughly.

You'll find out if you pass immediately! Your fate awaits you on the very last page of the survey. 

Again, there's really no strategy. It's just best to use common sense and good judgement. Good Luck!

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Disney College Program Requirements

Disney College Program Requirements

What are the requirement for the Disney College Program?

Before you apply please read the following information prior to applying. This is taken straight from the Disney College Program official site.

Overview:

• Be enrolled in college
• For graduates, you can apply up to 6 months after your program.
• Meet your school's requirements . . . if available
• Be 18 years old by the start date of your program
• No work restrictions

More Detail:

Application Requirements 

In order to submit an application for the Disney College Program, applicants must meet the following requirements.
1. Be Enrolled as a Full-Time or Part-Time Student and Taking ClassesStudents must be currently enrolled and taking classes in an accredited college or university in the United States and have completed at least one semester.

• Students who have not yet graduated from high school but have dual enrollment with a college are not eligible to apply.

• Those who have taken college courses, but are currently taking "time off" from school are not eligible to apply.

• College freshmen may apply during their first semester of school to participate during their second semester. The Disney College Program cannot serve as your first semester of school.

• College seniors may apply for the program and participate immediately after graduation, but must be enrolled in school at the time of their interview. Seniors graduating in April are eligible to apply for either the Fall Advantage or Fall programs.

• Graduate students may apply. However, it is important to note that this program and its educational components, are designed for undergraduates.

2. Meet Any School Requirements for ParticipationStudents also must meet any additional criteria their school requires for participation in our program. This may include G.P.A., grade level, and number of credit hours earned. Schools will be contacted to verify eligibility.
3. Be at Least 18 Years of Age by the Time the Program BeginsAll participants must be at least 18 years of age by their arrival date.
4. Possess Unrestricted Work AuthorizationParticipation in this program also requires unrestricted work authorization.

Others:

How to apply to the Disney College Program?
When to apply for the Disney College Program?

SOURCE: (http://cp.disneycareers.com/en/about-disney-college-program/overview/)

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Disney College Program: Congratulations!

Disney College Program Acceptance: Congratulations!

So, you've played the "waiting game" for who know how long and finally you've been accpeted. Now, what? Here are the following emails that you should/will receive after being accepted into the Disney College Program.

My Post Acceptance Experience emails. The information in the emails and the arrival times of emails will vary greatly.

Here is the super awesome Disney College Program: Congratulations! email.

In this email, you will be asked to read the fine print and then "CONFIRM" your acceptance. 

NOTE: do not HIT ACCEPT unless you're ready to pay. You have 10 days to do ALL THREE STEPS. 

It is possible to do all (3) steps in one day. But CAUTION, certain roles have trouble picking dates , so give yourself some time to do the last step.

Roles that had trouble were Merchandise (had the most), some Hospitality, Attractions, and some Lifeguards. Not all but these were the few.

Should you need more time to pay for Disney College Program fees please email them immediately to receive an extension.

Congratulations! :: Sept. 27, 2013 11:46AM

Once you've confirm the acceptance of your offer, you should receive the following email saying you've successfully completed Step One.

Submit Your Program Fee :: Oct 2, 2013 4:04AM

After paying your fees, you will receive a confirmation receipt.

Payment Confirmation :: Oct 2, 2013 4:08AM

After confirming your acceptance, you will be asked to select your arrival dates.

Schedule Your Dates/How to Select Dates :: Oct 2, 2013 4:20AM

After selecting you dates, you will receive a confirmation of completing step 2.

Schedule Your Dates/Completing Step 2 :: Oct 2, 2013 4:20AM

A Request for Additonal Information :: Oct 2, 2013 4:26AM

*You may receive this email before getting the "Welcome Aboard" message. You simply submit your birth date.

This is post acceptance process for the Disney College Program. 

Others:

How to apply for the Disney College Program?

When to apply for the Disney College Program?

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When to Apply for the Disney College Program?

When to Apply for the Disney College Program?

This page will explain exactly when you should apply for the Disney College Program. The information below is easily available on the Official Blog, but keep in mind of applying on the first day vs later. This is an often debated discussion on the Facebook (FB) Groups. I don't recommend applying on the very first day and definitely not the last day. However, I think applying within the first month is a good practice. Roles could be filled if you wait too late to apply. Of course, keep in mind what's best for you.

For WDW (Walt Disney World Florida):

Spring

• Students should apply/interview September – late October
• Program begins mid/late January and ends in early/mid May

Spring Advantage

• Students should apply/interview September – late October
• Program begins late January/early February and ends in early/mid August

Fall

• Students should apply/interview February – late March
• Program begins mid/late August and ends in early January

Fall Advantage

• Students should apply/interview February – late March
• Program begins late May/early June and ends in early January

There are also specialized program time frames for students who attend schools that follow a quarter or trimester academic calendar.

For DL (Disneyland California):

Spring

• Students should apply/interview September – early November
• Program begins mid January/early February and ends in mid August

Summer

• Due to extremely limited number of positions, applicants for this session are restricted to Disney College Program Alumni who meet certain criteria.
• Eligible Disney College Program Alumni will be contacted via email with specific details about this opportunity approximately in early February.  
• Opportunity begins in May and ends in August.

Fall

• Students should apply/interview February – late March
• Applicants for the session spanning May – January must be able to provide their own housing accommodations in the Disneyland Resort area.  This session does not offer housing.

Fall

• Students should apply/interview February – late March
• Applicants for the session spanning August – January must reside in the provided housing.

Others:

How to apply for the Disney College Program?
What are the Disney College Program requirements?

READ MORE HERE/Photo Source: (OFFICIAL BLOG)

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How to apply for the Disney College Program?

How to Apply for the Disney College Program?

The following steps will tell you how to apply for the Disney College Program. I also included the Disney College Program emails that you should/will receive during the process.

This a recollection of DCP Application Process emails. Times will vary greatly depending one each participant.

Before applying, please be aware that the application is NOT open all year round.  (Read About That Here)The application opens in the spring (February) and fall (September) season only. Don't Miss Out!!

To Apply

Go to http://cp.disneycareers.com/en/default/ and click the green button that says "Apply Now". Click on Disney College Program. Read ALL information and make sure you meet the requirements.

Fill out the information in the application. Organize your roles from "High to Low" interest. Put "No Interest" if you are not willing to a do certain role like Housekeeping or Main Entrance Ops.

These are just an observation:

Most Popular Roles (most sought after) : Character Performer, Attractions, Hospitality Roles, Merchandise

Least Popular roles (the least wanted): Housekeeping, Bell Services, QSFB, Custodial

After Applying you will receive this email below:

Applied: September 12, 2013 6:20PM

Next you MAY or MAY NOT receive a Web Based Interview (WBI).

If you don't . . . there is a possibility you will be pended later on in the application process.

Please Note: Not everyone will move on past this point and not everyone will receive a WBI.

If you do receive a WBI, this is the email to get started. Make sure your surroundings are quiet and you have  at least 45 minutes to 1 hour to spare. Take your time. Be honest but smart about your answers and you'll do fine.

Web Based Interview: September 12, 2013 6:34PM

Immediately after completing the WBI, you will be told if you passed or not. If you DID NOT pass, unfortunately this marks the end of your journey. 

If you passed, the following email will be sent next, in which you have 3 days to Schedule your time interview. Slots are open up to about a 1 and a half in advanced. For example, I applied on Sept 12th, 2013 and Scheduled an interview for Sep 22nd, 2013. You may scheduling it your time zone.

Schedule an Interview: Sept 13th, 2013 7:13 PM

After scheduling you interview, you will receive a confirmation. PLEASE, make sure the time zone is correct. They will call you based on Eastern time.

Interview Confirmation: September 12, 2013 7:37PM

My interview was scheduled September 22, 2013 at 6PM Central/7PM Eastern. I had to reschedule because I put the wrong time zone. ugh! lol!!

About a week later, I had my interview (called at 5 minutes til 6 and it was 20 minutes long) and I got this email about 3 hours afterwards.

After Interviewer Confirmation: September 22, 2013 9:05PM

This concluded applying for the Disney College program. Now, you play what is called the "waiting game". Until then, join some FB Groups, go on DisBoards, and watch Youtube videos.

CLICK HERE to see what happens after the interview.

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