It has been about a year since I originally applied for the Disney College Program, and as I watch my roommate apply for the program, I wanted to reflect on all the emotions and steps it took getting to it. I had lost funding for school during the second semester of sophomore year, and did not know what to do with my time. Then I remembered my friend who was currently doing the program, and asked her all these questions about applying, being afraid that I would not get in the first time. The program has about a 12 percent acceptance rate, with people who would apply three or four times before getting in; if I didn't get into the program, I wouldn't know what I would be doing with my life come January. It was too late to apply for financial aid and I was not the biggest fan of loans.
Luckily, I got in! For those currently applying or having been accepted into the program, this will be relatable.
1. The Launching of the Applications
Oh my gosh, do I want to do this? Well the fall program is more difficult to get into, but I could always extend from the spring program...
2. Opening the Application
Wow, this is a LOT of information they are asking. Volunteering? Skills? How can I make myself look good and not humblebrag too much...
3. Waiting for the Confirmation Email/Next Step
What if I don't make it to the web based interview? What if I am stuck in submission instead of in progress on my HR status? *Refreshes inbox every 5 seconds*
4. The relief when you get the Web Based Interview Email
Yes! Okay, I have 72 hours to do this and it will take about an hour it says, looks like I won't be getting my college afternoon nap in tomorrow.
5. Joining the Facebook Page for the program you are applying to
I'm so glad I'm not the only one!! Oh, there are people who have applied on here before? I must ask all the questions. What if I don't get in....
6. Preparing for the final step, the Phone Interview
*Researches every page on Pinterest with sample questions* *Watches YouTube videos of people during their interview* *Prepares cheat sheet* *Creates Disney shrine and prays to the almighty Walt*
7. Post-Phone Interview Reflection
Wow, that went by really fast. I might not hear back for two more months?! Hello anxiety and not being able to focus on anything until I get my decision...
8. The Ominous Decision Email
I can't bear to open it! *Opens it* *Reads slowly*....
9. THE ACCEPTANCE
Someday I'll be part of that world... that day is TODAY!!!!
10. Reading your role and other information
Food and beverage... *cringes* Well, I don't care, I'm going to DISNEY WORLD
11. Making friends and finding roommates on the Facebook page, looking on Pinterest for packing lists, bucket lists, working to save enough money to spend while in the program...
Next semester cannot come soon enough! How will I focus on this semester knowing my life begins at the end of it?
12. Move In Day
The emotional goodbyes from your friends and family (and pets), anxiety of living on your own for a whole semester many states away, reminding yourself it is worth it.
To those of you applying, I wish for you faith, trust, and pixie dust.
