Ive been strongly interested in the WDWCP for the Fall of 2007, Ive pretty much read through everything on the official website and ive been constantly browsing through these forums as well as the ezboard forum reading through WDWCP-related stuff. I currently work at a hotel and if I do the CP I plan to take upon the Hospitality role and curriculum, and so far my two greatest areas of concern are; how likely that I can actually get the role I am asking for, because if I dont I wont do the program, and of course whether or not my school will accept the WDWCP course credits. If all goes through, im also determined to be able to live at Chatham, I would hate to end up at Vista and at that point would already see the program as an absolute disaster. So I have a few q's;
- How likely is it that I can get what im looking for with the WDWCP?
- Whats the best I could do to improve my chances and hopefully nearly guarantee that I could get what im looking for at WDWCP?
- How early should I apply for the WDWCP?
- And, When should I speak with a school official regarding the program and transfer of CP course credits?
Thanks in advance for all the replies.
I'm going to answer your post as honestly as I can. I want to help you but first I have to give you a reality check. Disney had thousands and thousands interview this year, way more didn't get accepted than did. You might not like what I first tell you, but please read it because it will help you.
THE BAD NEWS:
To put it bluntly... you are too picky. College credit should not play into your decision. Sure, it is nice if you get it... but if you're going into hospitality, having Disney on your resume would be the best thing to happen to your career (outside of marrying a Hilton sister). The 5+ months you will have on the program are far more valuable than finishing a semester earlier. FYI: If you go to a "Big" university you probably won't get a lot of credit, if any.
Your comments about the housing situation scare me. Don't believe everything your read or hear. Are you really that ignorant that living at Vista would make the program an "absolute disaster?" Seriously... think of how moronic that comment is... an " absolute disaster." I'm not trying to be mean, but you should look at the big picture. Vista isn't as nice by most peoples accounts, but so what? You should be thankful they find you furnished housing (with utilities) for so cheap. As others mentioned, there are ways to help get into Chattham, but some of it depends on your arrival date as well.
THE GOOD NEWS:
There have been some good tips listed above. However, there is a way to avoid the misconception of "it's totally random what role you are placed in." If you do your homework on the situation and are prepared, if you look and speak right, you can get pretty much any role you want. But if you say, "I only want to work in hospitality" you'll shoot yourself in the foot. If in the interview you tell them that "the opportunity to work in hospitality for a company as well regarded as Disney is what attracted me to the CP," you'll have a much better chance. Shmooz them. Show up with black pants, a dress shirt and tie, if not a full suit.
The CP's numbers are WAY WAY down... many within the recruiting dept. are a bit nervous. The quality of the CPs are WAY WAY down because they are now resorting to filling roles with people that are shaky. They have found that international applicants are far more prepared than most Americans. That's one of their big things... being professional and being prepared! So yes... have a resume, smile, small talk them before and after the interview, study the program, answer with stories and examples, smile more and be willing to act like this internship would be the greatest thing for your Hospitality career.
I would suggest researching when your presentation will be. Find out from the campus reps at your school, or find out from Disney when they will be there. Be sure to let the recruiter know of your history with hospitality and how beneficial to your career it would be to learn from them. Mention how you want to take the class in hospitality and feel the class would supplement your college courses and work experience. Don't interview over the phone, interview in person. You may have to wait longer to interview, but you will be able to sell yourself better in-person.
"How likely is it that I can get what im looking for with the WDWCP?" It's very likely if you work for it. If you network yourself, take the hospitality class and ask your managers about their careers, you can get what you want. If you try to take the easy way out, you probably will be disappointed. I understand you want an ideal program, but it is what you make of it... plain and simple.
There's far more to say, but this is getting too long. I can help you get what you want. I didn't mean to be a jerk but really, you should approach this from a more humble position.