Showing posts with label CRP. Show all posts
Showing posts with label CRP. Show all posts
A long time coming...
It's been over 5 years since I decided to start a blog to document my Disney journey. It still amazes me when I check in here how many people continue to view this blog given my distinct lack of posting once my Cultural Rep Program began. And for that I thank you, whoever you are, that still drop in to visit.
So I just wanted to do a quick update. I began my program in Walt Disney World May 3rd 2011, and spent 11 1/2 wonderful months with truly amazing people on April 25th my journey came to an end... or did it?
Towards the end of my program, around January, I felt truly settled in and had become so at home with the work I was doing, and my friendship group. In a situation like that, especially over Christmas, it's amazing how a group of people can come together to support each other, and that's when they stop being just friends but become more like family.
Given that one of the lovely girls I worked with had chosen to extend her program beyond my end date, I thought that my chances for an extension had been dashed and so I started to plan my return back home to the UK. My Mum and Aunt had decided to budget well, being that the end of April is my Mums birthday and May 13th is mine, they would come out to Florida for a couple of weeks holiday to celebrate and help me home with all my luggage! I wish I'd have hung on a little longer, as around February my boss contacted me and asked if I would like to extend my program for a further 3 months. This would have been an amazing opportunity and chance to spend time with amazing people. But as my flights and hotels were already booked it just couldn't happen. Gutted.
And so, around May 18th? I flew home. Mum, Aunt, 5 suitcases and a lot of memories in tow.
Coming back to the UK is a massive shock. Re-acclimatising to the culture, weather and yes even the language took it's toll! I was accused of having an American accent, being absolutely freezing constantly and gradually adjusting back to using British slang.
A few weeks after returning to the UK I began looking for work. I was completely stumped as to what I wanted to do, where I wanted to go. Did I want to utilise my degree? Or find any job to keep e ticking over until I could find out what to do with myself.
Of course I found myself at the doors of The Disney Store. Given my experience the manager took me on for an 8 hour per week contract (!!!) with the promise of more hours when available. I did manage to get more hours, more about my experiences there another time.
After 18 months at the glorious Disney Store I left to return to Walt Disney World, back on the Cultural Representative Program and back to HRC. I was lucky enough to be chosen again and my boss automatically gave me an extension and signed me up for 15 months. And on December 2nd 2013 I flew out to begin another program. Again I was blessed to meet some amazing people from far and wide. But sadly again on February 20th 2015 that program again came to an end.
That brings me here. I didn't manage to write a blog for my second program. Nor did I feel able to update this one given how appallingly long it had been since my last update..
I have truly been missing Disney and my life there so much. I keep in regular touch with friends I met there, however nothing compares to the close knit friendships we had there. I've found so many photos that I haven't even posted to Facebook. But it seems criminal to just have them in a folder never looked at.
So that's my big idea for this blog!! To share photos and memories. I hope to put them on regularly, but unfortunately no promises! I hope that they are entertaining.. but I must admit to having no professional photo editing software so please forgive the amateur style.
And so that's it. Thanks if you have read this far! Thanks again for continuing to read! And I hope you enjoy some of what's to come :)
So I just wanted to do a quick update. I began my program in Walt Disney World May 3rd 2011, and spent 11 1/2 wonderful months with truly amazing people on April 25th my journey came to an end... or did it?
Towards the end of my program, around January, I felt truly settled in and had become so at home with the work I was doing, and my friendship group. In a situation like that, especially over Christmas, it's amazing how a group of people can come together to support each other, and that's when they stop being just friends but become more like family.
Given that one of the lovely girls I worked with had chosen to extend her program beyond my end date, I thought that my chances for an extension had been dashed and so I started to plan my return back home to the UK. My Mum and Aunt had decided to budget well, being that the end of April is my Mums birthday and May 13th is mine, they would come out to Florida for a couple of weeks holiday to celebrate and help me home with all my luggage! I wish I'd have hung on a little longer, as around February my boss contacted me and asked if I would like to extend my program for a further 3 months. This would have been an amazing opportunity and chance to spend time with amazing people. But as my flights and hotels were already booked it just couldn't happen. Gutted.
And so, around May 18th? I flew home. Mum, Aunt, 5 suitcases and a lot of memories in tow.
Coming back to the UK is a massive shock. Re-acclimatising to the culture, weather and yes even the language took it's toll! I was accused of having an American accent, being absolutely freezing constantly and gradually adjusting back to using British slang.
A few weeks after returning to the UK I began looking for work. I was completely stumped as to what I wanted to do, where I wanted to go. Did I want to utilise my degree? Or find any job to keep e ticking over until I could find out what to do with myself.
Of course I found myself at the doors of The Disney Store. Given my experience the manager took me on for an 8 hour per week contract (!!!) with the promise of more hours when available. I did manage to get more hours, more about my experiences there another time.
After 18 months at the glorious Disney Store I left to return to Walt Disney World, back on the Cultural Representative Program and back to HRC. I was lucky enough to be chosen again and my boss automatically gave me an extension and signed me up for 15 months. And on December 2nd 2013 I flew out to begin another program. Again I was blessed to meet some amazing people from far and wide. But sadly again on February 20th 2015 that program again came to an end.
That brings me here. I didn't manage to write a blog for my second program. Nor did I feel able to update this one given how appallingly long it had been since my last update..
I have truly been missing Disney and my life there so much. I keep in regular touch with friends I met there, however nothing compares to the close knit friendships we had there. I've found so many photos that I haven't even posted to Facebook. But it seems criminal to just have them in a folder never looked at.
So that's my big idea for this blog!! To share photos and memories. I hope to put them on regularly, but unfortunately no promises! I hope that they are entertaining.. but I must admit to having no professional photo editing software so please forgive the amateur style.
And so that's it. Thanks if you have read this far! Thanks again for continuing to read! And I hope you enjoy some of what's to come :)
The next 2 days
Again.. recapping the past 2 days and we should be up to date :)
Thursday 5th May
We all had to be at the Clubhouse at The Commons for 8.50am for more orientation stuff. This was mainly form filling to start your Social Security process and a lecture on immigration. They take you through each form step by step to make sure everything is done correctly. And then we had a talk about immigration and travel in and out of the United States during and after your program, including if you go to jail, you get deported.. just things to scare you into behaving basically!
Then you put all the documents you filled out into a wallet, along with your passport and I-797 form (WDW cast members also had to have their insurance policy print out) and you hand them in to the helpers. We were then off for the day until 4pm-ish when we had to return to the Clubhouse to pick up our passports and everything we had handed in. During this break time Kyle, Kirstie, Antonia, Julie and I decided to head to Walmart and then a phone shop to sort out our American cell phones. I was lucky as I just wanted the cheapest option that would call home, and as I have my UK phone with me and it's unlocked I could use that- which saved me some money. So I just had to pay for the Sim, the activation fee and the first month's payment, so my plan is $40 per month and that includes unlimited texting and calling in the US, and to the UK. Although the UK calling is only to landlines- and I think for a maximum of 12 hours a month. But still that is more than enough for me!
After that we all went back to our apartments for a bit to chill out, and then we went to Downtown Disney for dinner. We went to the T-rex restaurant which is so awesome.. we survived a meteor shower, which is always a good thing!! I was going to head back straight after dinner as I had to be up early the next day to meet my new boss.. but I was persuaded to go for a drink. And after that everyone decided to come back anyway, so after a Grand National style sprint we caught the bus back to The Commons and then bed.
Friday 6th May
Today I met my new boss! She came to pick me up from the Commons clubhouse and then took me to the credit union Partners, which is part of Disney. She was really lovely and helped me with everything! So I have a bank account sorted now, and it isn't like the Disney payroll card- which you can only make one free withdrawl a month.. this is just like a normal debit card. Except their machine to print the cards wasn't working, so they are going to mail it to me. It should be here around 7-10 days which is fine as I won't get paid until then anyway, and I've put a deposit in there so at least that's something :) I also got my schedule and loads of paperwork about HRC that I looked through already. Also- most exciting bit- I GOT MY NAMETAG!! I didn't think you got it until Traditions on Saturday but as my manager Mariann had it already.. I was so excited!
So then I came back to the apartment and have basically been here all day- except for a couple of trips to McDonalds (once with my housemate Deborah and once to show Mark the way!) and Publix. But I've hung out with my housemates today and really got to know some of them better, which is good. I can really feel that I'm settling into my house more.
Tomorrow is Traditions... I'm a little nervous as the Food and Beverage people all go at 7am, and I go with a load of other people at 12.. but I'll try talking to others, as I always do :) So I actually get a bit of a lie in tomorrow!! Will be heading to bed soonish though as I'm very tired, but am enjoying hanging out with Apt. #428 girls!
Yaaayyyyyy!!!
Where has the time gone?!
Well Hello!!
I do apologise for my lack of posting the past week or so- it's unforgivable I know, but still, Sorry!
Turns out I've got a sore throat again :( So I've not really felt like doing much. Bad timing really as Mum has been trying to sort out what clothes I want to take with me so that we can get everything washed ready for packing.
I think we have done quite well though, we have loads of stuff in the suitcase, but it's not quite "packed" exactly. Some stuff needs taking out, vacuum packing, rearranging etc.
On Saturday I did go into Brighton and change my money into dollars though! My Aunty has been kind enough to give me a somewhat loan of emergency money, should I need it. But she said I can always give some/all of it back to her when her and Mum come out to visit in November. The exchange rate was actually really good. I'd been keeping an eye on it the past few days and it was $1.57, $1.58 but I got mine for $1.6167 to each £1. Brilliant!
My Kindle arrived on Wednesday, and I've already read a book on it. It's so light and easy to use. Nothing replaces reading a good old book, but for sheer ease and comfort it's great. And then on Thursday the opticians rang to say my contacts had been delivered!! Woohooo!!! So that's all 6months worth, and I got a couple of 2 week bottles of solution, so I'll take one with me and then buy some out there :)
So yes, everything is pretty set now. Oh and I'm anticipating alot of questions from Americans about the royal wedding! It was lovely to watch.. I had it on in the background basically all day. I hope the decorations at the UK pavillion are still up for our arrival!! It's getting so close now. It's down to counting the hours now that I have left at home and I'm getting really sentimental about stuff :( I'm really trying to battle that lump in my throat when I get too emotional. It's stupid, but I think part of me is so worried it will be like my first few weeks at Uni- which were a nightmare. (I got put to live in a B&B with no other students, as they hadn't got enough rooms for us. I knew no-one for weeks, in the middle of nowhere in a strange place.) I know it won't be anything like that, that's just the last time that I had to go through such an uprooting.
Well I started upbeat then.. it just went a bit downhill!! I really need to double and triple check all my paperwork. And print up instructions for my Aunty on how to send emails, use Skype etc... I have told her before, but she sometimes forgets. I think that's it for now... so close now! Honestly, time has flown by so quick!
I do apologise for my lack of posting the past week or so- it's unforgivable I know, but still, Sorry!
Turns out I've got a sore throat again :( So I've not really felt like doing much. Bad timing really as Mum has been trying to sort out what clothes I want to take with me so that we can get everything washed ready for packing.
I think we have done quite well though, we have loads of stuff in the suitcase, but it's not quite "packed" exactly. Some stuff needs taking out, vacuum packing, rearranging etc.
On Saturday I did go into Brighton and change my money into dollars though! My Aunty has been kind enough to give me a somewhat loan of emergency money, should I need it. But she said I can always give some/all of it back to her when her and Mum come out to visit in November. The exchange rate was actually really good. I'd been keeping an eye on it the past few days and it was $1.57, $1.58 but I got mine for $1.6167 to each £1. Brilliant!
My Kindle arrived on Wednesday, and I've already read a book on it. It's so light and easy to use. Nothing replaces reading a good old book, but for sheer ease and comfort it's great. And then on Thursday the opticians rang to say my contacts had been delivered!! Woohooo!!! So that's all 6months worth, and I got a couple of 2 week bottles of solution, so I'll take one with me and then buy some out there :)
So yes, everything is pretty set now. Oh and I'm anticipating alot of questions from Americans about the royal wedding! It was lovely to watch.. I had it on in the background basically all day. I hope the decorations at the UK pavillion are still up for our arrival!! It's getting so close now. It's down to counting the hours now that I have left at home and I'm getting really sentimental about stuff :( I'm really trying to battle that lump in my throat when I get too emotional. It's stupid, but I think part of me is so worried it will be like my first few weeks at Uni- which were a nightmare. (I got put to live in a B&B with no other students, as they hadn't got enough rooms for us. I knew no-one for weeks, in the middle of nowhere in a strange place.) I know it won't be anything like that, that's just the last time that I had to go through such an uprooting.
Well I started upbeat then.. it just went a bit downhill!! I really need to double and triple check all my paperwork. And print up instructions for my Aunty on how to send emails, use Skype etc... I have told her before, but she sometimes forgets. I think that's it for now... so close now! Honestly, time has flown by so quick!
Insurance Puzzle
So last time I posted I told you all about the hell of insurance.
3 out of the 4 companies got back to me today. And I received an e-mail from yummy asking me to buy my insurance asap and forward them the policy number by noon tomorrow. This, of course, was fair as they need to know that I am covered before I head out on Tuesday.
So tonight, Kirstie, Kyle and I all sat on MSN in a 3 way conversation to navigate the treacherous waters of insurance policies.
Now I am unable to provide you with any sort of advice on which companies to go with. I can only tell you of my experience.
Both Kyle and I received somewhat confusing and unhelpful information from 24/7 so decided they weren't for us (many people on the CRP have gone with them in the past though, so don't go solely on my word)
Anway in the end we found that Direct Travel and ACE seemed to be the most helpful in their responses and so I went with ACE. Buying the policy was quick and simple, I have printed off the relevant forms and sent the policy number to Yummy.
To tell you the truth I am so glad that it's all over and done with. A weight has been lifted off my shoulders! Let's just cross fingers and pray that I never have a need to claim!
In other news I went for my contact lens check up today, all is fine! Only slight problem is ordering 6 months supply... the suppliers have a backlog due to the last Bank Holiday. So I have had to pay for special delivery to try and get them here within 2 days rather than the 3-4 days they are estimating. Now I know 3-4 days isn't very long, and you may wonder why I am so impatient. Tomorrow is Wednesday (Day 1), Thursday (Day 2), Friday (Most places are shut, including my branch of Specsavers), Saturday (Day 3), Sunday (Again not open), Monday (Not open), Tuesday (Day 4). As I am leaving my house at 6.30 am on Tuesday I doubt they will be in branch in a town 10 miles away, and that branch open in time for me to get them!
Same goes for my Kindle really.. I have paid extra for it to be guaranteed to have it by 1pm tomorrow. If it isn't here there will be a very strongly worded email going to Amazon saying that I'll buy it in the States... still hopefully it will be here and everything will be fine :)
Phew! You can see why my stress levels have been so high the past week! And I'm having blood pressure done tomorrow... may have to take up meditating!! Also getting haircut tomorrow. Less than a week to go- it's the final countdown!!
3 out of the 4 companies got back to me today. And I received an e-mail from yummy asking me to buy my insurance asap and forward them the policy number by noon tomorrow. This, of course, was fair as they need to know that I am covered before I head out on Tuesday.
So tonight, Kirstie, Kyle and I all sat on MSN in a 3 way conversation to navigate the treacherous waters of insurance policies.
Now I am unable to provide you with any sort of advice on which companies to go with. I can only tell you of my experience.
Both Kyle and I received somewhat confusing and unhelpful information from 24/7 so decided they weren't for us (many people on the CRP have gone with them in the past though, so don't go solely on my word)
Anway in the end we found that Direct Travel and ACE seemed to be the most helpful in their responses and so I went with ACE. Buying the policy was quick and simple, I have printed off the relevant forms and sent the policy number to Yummy.
To tell you the truth I am so glad that it's all over and done with. A weight has been lifted off my shoulders! Let's just cross fingers and pray that I never have a need to claim!
In other news I went for my contact lens check up today, all is fine! Only slight problem is ordering 6 months supply... the suppliers have a backlog due to the last Bank Holiday. So I have had to pay for special delivery to try and get them here within 2 days rather than the 3-4 days they are estimating. Now I know 3-4 days isn't very long, and you may wonder why I am so impatient. Tomorrow is Wednesday (Day 1), Thursday (Day 2), Friday (Most places are shut, including my branch of Specsavers), Saturday (Day 3), Sunday (Again not open), Monday (Not open), Tuesday (Day 4). As I am leaving my house at 6.30 am on Tuesday I doubt they will be in branch in a town 10 miles away, and that branch open in time for me to get them!
Same goes for my Kindle really.. I have paid extra for it to be guaranteed to have it by 1pm tomorrow. If it isn't here there will be a very strongly worded email going to Amazon saying that I'll buy it in the States... still hopefully it will be here and everything will be fine :)
Phew! You can see why my stress levels have been so high the past week! And I'm having blood pressure done tomorrow... may have to take up meditating!! Also getting haircut tomorrow. Less than a week to go- it's the final countdown!!
Insurance Nightmare
Arrrggghhh!!
I know I promised to let you know all about my adventures up in Essex.. that will be coming soon!
I set aside today to do a few things. 1) Buy insurance, 2) Sort through some clothes to pack, 3) Test out vacuum pack bags to see how much I could get in suitcase.
I completed none of these tasks.
Insurance is awful. I have read so many policies today my brain has completely turned to mush, it's made me confused, angry, stressed and upset.
Now it may be that I've been looking too deep into things, I've been reading all the policies, all the small print, and looking up reviews online of peoples experiences. Needless to say there are mixed reviews for all insurance companies. Also I am on a couple of medications just to manage migraines etc, these are prescribed medications and are stable. But still I've heard/read horror stories that if you don't declare them, insurers will screw you over.
So, at 9pm I have resulted to emailing 4 insurance companies. I've told them the dates I need to be covered, the minimum requirements set out by Disney, and the medication I am on. This way I can get a written response, that I have notified them of my medication and their acknowledgement.
As it is a Bank Holiday I don't expect to hear anything back until Tuesday and then hopefully this farce will be over!! Sorry for the rant, but if I have success after emailing them you can all avoid the mind numbing 4 hours reading through multiple insurance policies, that can be my good deed for the day!
On a happier note I've ordered my Kindle off of Amazon! Just had to pay extra for guaranteed delivery as theres so many Bank Holidays at the moment, but still :)
P.S. Happy Easter everybody! Hope the Easter bunny was extremely kind to you all!
I know I promised to let you know all about my adventures up in Essex.. that will be coming soon!
I set aside today to do a few things. 1) Buy insurance, 2) Sort through some clothes to pack, 3) Test out vacuum pack bags to see how much I could get in suitcase.
I completed none of these tasks.
Insurance is awful. I have read so many policies today my brain has completely turned to mush, it's made me confused, angry, stressed and upset.
Now it may be that I've been looking too deep into things, I've been reading all the policies, all the small print, and looking up reviews online of peoples experiences. Needless to say there are mixed reviews for all insurance companies. Also I am on a couple of medications just to manage migraines etc, these are prescribed medications and are stable. But still I've heard/read horror stories that if you don't declare them, insurers will screw you over.
So, at 9pm I have resulted to emailing 4 insurance companies. I've told them the dates I need to be covered, the minimum requirements set out by Disney, and the medication I am on. This way I can get a written response, that I have notified them of my medication and their acknowledgement.
As it is a Bank Holiday I don't expect to hear anything back until Tuesday and then hopefully this farce will be over!! Sorry for the rant, but if I have success after emailing them you can all avoid the mind numbing 4 hours reading through multiple insurance policies, that can be my good deed for the day!
On a happier note I've ordered my Kindle off of Amazon! Just had to pay extra for guaranteed delivery as theres so many Bank Holidays at the moment, but still :)
P.S. Happy Easter everybody! Hope the Easter bunny was extremely kind to you all!
There's a great big beautiful tomorrow...
"There's a great, big, beautiful tomorrow
Shining at the then of every day.
There's a great, big, beautiful tomorrow
And tomorrow is just a dream away
Man has a dream, and that's the start
He follows his dream with mind and heart
And when it becomes a reality
It's a dream come true, for you and me"
There is a great, big, beautiful tomorrow everyday at the moment in the UK. The weather is so beautiful and warm! It's hard to believe it's only April! Although May and Disney are fast approaching- 11 days now!
I had a wonderful time in Southend with my Uni house-mate Lauren, the weather and the company was glorious. I shall update you more on that later, and some more of my preparations for the big move :)
Medical Insurance will be purchased on Sunday, without fail!
Congratulations!!
Just wanted to say a massive CONGRATULATIONS!! To all the UK waitlisters from the Summer 2010 recruitment!
You guys are amazing, and although I was only on the waitlist 122 days, you guys really did keep me going reading messages of support and hope!
It's also renewed my hope that if I had still been on the list now that my dream may still have come true. If that makes any sense?!
There will have to be a massive party/celebration once all of you are out here! Honestly, the time will fly by. I know it has for me.
It just proves that if you have faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust... anything can happen :)
You guys are amazing, and although I was only on the waitlist 122 days, you guys really did keep me going reading messages of support and hope!
It's also renewed my hope that if I had still been on the list now that my dream may still have come true. If that makes any sense?!
There will have to be a massive party/celebration once all of you are out here! Honestly, the time will fly by. I know it has for me.
It just proves that if you have faith, trust and a little bit of pixie dust... anything can happen :)
Crap?! I don't think so...
Well I got a text from one of my friends the other day that my blog looks crap.
OK he didn't exactly say that.. just that the title "My CRP Adventure" at a glance looks like "My CRAP Adventure". Which isn't really the look I was going for!
So I've changed it, if it still looks "crap" then I'll have to rename it again.. annoying. But thanks for the heads up! If there's one person out there thinking it, then theres probably a few more too.
I have now paid my program assessment fee ($104.50) for housing. You get sent an e-mail with log on details and a link to the site, it's pretty straight forward, same as buying anything online. Only problem is that my printer has decided to go on the blink and I can't print out the confirmation. Boo. Will have to fix it later on and add that print out to my folder of paperwork.
Have also been back to the doctor today to pick up some more medication- I swear I'm going to rattle!- but all in all it should make for a much more organised, stress free life when out there!
Also the Disney 30 Day Challenge has come to an end :-(, I may look for some others to do quickly as it was quite entertaining!
But anyway, am off to sunny Southend tomorrow to stay with my Uni house-mate for a few days. It'll be nice seeing her again, and will be a bit of practice staying away from home for a few days. I probably won't have internet access either... so may post later on this evening, but if not... "2 weeks tomorrrrrroooowww! Eeep!"
OK he didn't exactly say that.. just that the title "My CRP Adventure" at a glance looks like "My CRAP Adventure". Which isn't really the look I was going for!
So I've changed it, if it still looks "crap" then I'll have to rename it again.. annoying. But thanks for the heads up! If there's one person out there thinking it, then theres probably a few more too.
I have now paid my program assessment fee ($104.50) for housing. You get sent an e-mail with log on details and a link to the site, it's pretty straight forward, same as buying anything online. Only problem is that my printer has decided to go on the blink and I can't print out the confirmation. Boo. Will have to fix it later on and add that print out to my folder of paperwork.
Have also been back to the doctor today to pick up some more medication- I swear I'm going to rattle!- but all in all it should make for a much more organised, stress free life when out there!
Also the Disney 30 Day Challenge has come to an end :-(, I may look for some others to do quickly as it was quite entertaining!
But anyway, am off to sunny Southend tomorrow to stay with my Uni house-mate for a few days. It'll be nice seeing her again, and will be a bit of practice staying away from home for a few days. I probably won't have internet access either... so may post later on this evening, but if not... "2 weeks tomorrrrrroooowww! Eeep!"
How could I forget?!
Jeez, I got so caught up in talking about eyes and stuff I forgot to mention my Visa!! It's arrived!!
It arrived yesterday, about 2 o clock. I was already in Brighton, but my aunty was in to accept it. All they wanted to see was a bank statement and bada bing bada boom all done :) So I had to go through the whole afternoon knowing that it was just sitting waiting for me at home!
How exciting!!
(If you wanted to know.. it takes up a whole page of your passport. Mine is really near the beginning, the photo is in black and white- even though they took the Ariel-red coloured copy of my confirmation print out they use the one you upload to the site. It also says how long it is valid for, from the date issued (providing this isn't more than 30 days before you start work) to 30 days after your end date- this is when you must leave the United States. For example, if your program date finishes on 15th June, your Visa would be valid until 15th July. So you would have to leave up to or on the 15th July to avoid getting in trouble with the U.S Government!)
It arrived yesterday, about 2 o clock. I was already in Brighton, but my aunty was in to accept it. All they wanted to see was a bank statement and bada bing bada boom all done :) So I had to go through the whole afternoon knowing that it was just sitting waiting for me at home!
How exciting!!
(If you wanted to know.. it takes up a whole page of your passport. Mine is really near the beginning, the photo is in black and white- even though they took the Ariel-red coloured copy of my confirmation print out they use the one you upload to the site. It also says how long it is valid for, from the date issued (providing this isn't more than 30 days before you start work) to 30 days after your end date- this is when you must leave the United States. For example, if your program date finishes on 15th June, your Visa would be valid until 15th July. So you would have to leave up to or on the 15th July to avoid getting in trouble with the U.S Government!)
You can see, you can see, you can see!!
That's me anyway.. I hope you can all see fine too :)
Past few days I have been able to tick quite a lot off list of things to do. Yesterday I went into Brighton for an eye test. It was the first time I'd been to Specsavers and they were brilliant!! I ended up choosing a pair of glasses which cost £10 (With an NHS voucher), they are a metallic brown colour which I hope is neutral enough for the Disney Look. I saw lots of different pairs with really nice designs on the frames but unfortunately I couldn't have them :(
Only problem was that they couldn't fit me in to see about contacts :( So I had to book an appointment for 26th. Anyway we tried ringing another branch this morning, who had a free appointment for 3.30! I managed to go get my eyes checked out- AGAIN. They did loads of weird tests and I was pretty nervous when she said about putting contacts in to see how my eyes responded. But it wasn't anywhere near as bad as I thought, the optician said it was meant to feel a bit like an eyelash on my eye but it wasn't even that bad!
As she only had 20 minutes free she mentioned trying to teach me some of the basics about putting contacts in/ taking them out to see how fast I picked it up, but that I would probably have to book another appointment for proper teaching. Luckily though I got the hang of it right away!! I was VERY nervous, and my eyes watered ALOT but she was confident enough to let me wear them home as I was such a fast learner!! YAY!! As Kirstie said to me later.. at least my Uni education counted for something haha.
So that's all sorted.. I just need to gradually increase the amount of time I wear them day by day and then go back for a check in 2 weeks at which point they can issue me with 6months worth! woohoo!!
Basically the reason I wanted to go for contacts (it is by no means a requirement by Disney) is just because I wanted to be able to buy a pair of cheap sunglasses out in Florida that are suitable for Disney. I didn't want to have to get a second pair of prescription sunglasses really. But I will be mixing it up between contacts and glasses :)
Also on my adventures today I picked up some sun lotion in preparation.. I'm thinking SPF 30 is the best option.. and it's not sun cream, but a liquid spray which is really fast drying which is great as I hate that sticky creamy feeling, urgh.
Anyway.. enough of my ramblings.. just glad to have a couple more things to tick off the list. I still have to buy insurance, pay program assessment fee and email Disney sometime in the next week! Phew!
Past few days I have been able to tick quite a lot off list of things to do. Yesterday I went into Brighton for an eye test. It was the first time I'd been to Specsavers and they were brilliant!! I ended up choosing a pair of glasses which cost £10 (With an NHS voucher), they are a metallic brown colour which I hope is neutral enough for the Disney Look. I saw lots of different pairs with really nice designs on the frames but unfortunately I couldn't have them :(
Only problem was that they couldn't fit me in to see about contacts :( So I had to book an appointment for 26th. Anyway we tried ringing another branch this morning, who had a free appointment for 3.30! I managed to go get my eyes checked out- AGAIN. They did loads of weird tests and I was pretty nervous when she said about putting contacts in to see how my eyes responded. But it wasn't anywhere near as bad as I thought, the optician said it was meant to feel a bit like an eyelash on my eye but it wasn't even that bad!
As she only had 20 minutes free she mentioned trying to teach me some of the basics about putting contacts in/ taking them out to see how fast I picked it up, but that I would probably have to book another appointment for proper teaching. Luckily though I got the hang of it right away!! I was VERY nervous, and my eyes watered ALOT but she was confident enough to let me wear them home as I was such a fast learner!! YAY!! As Kirstie said to me later.. at least my Uni education counted for something haha.
So that's all sorted.. I just need to gradually increase the amount of time I wear them day by day and then go back for a check in 2 weeks at which point they can issue me with 6months worth! woohoo!!
Basically the reason I wanted to go for contacts (it is by no means a requirement by Disney) is just because I wanted to be able to buy a pair of cheap sunglasses out in Florida that are suitable for Disney. I didn't want to have to get a second pair of prescription sunglasses really. But I will be mixing it up between contacts and glasses :)
Also on my adventures today I picked up some sun lotion in preparation.. I'm thinking SPF 30 is the best option.. and it's not sun cream, but a liquid spray which is really fast drying which is great as I hate that sticky creamy feeling, urgh.
Anyway.. enough of my ramblings.. just glad to have a couple more things to tick off the list. I still have to buy insurance, pay program assessment fee and email Disney sometime in the next week! Phew!
3 weeks!!!
So today was the 3 week mark!
I must confess, when I woke up today it was a sobering thought to think only 3 more weeks going to sleep in my room. Only 3 more weeks being at home. Only 3 more weeks of seeing my friends anytime.
But then..Only 3 more weeks until I'm in the most magical place on Earth. Only 3 more weeks until that beautiful sunny weather. Only 3 more weeks until I get to make brand new friends, and spend the most amazing year with them.
Also my Facebook doesn't know what has hit it today. Kirstie, Kyle and I have been talking pretty much non stop, along with some of the other May 3rd'ers. It's great to get regular conversations going. I don't know what I would have done if I didn't know about the forums and subsequently the Facebook groups. They are such a great way of getting to know everyone :)
Also I went on the tracking website for the courier with my passport/visa. Now when I went to the Embassy they said within 3-5 days. Well by Saturday I decided to look online (I got excited OK?!) and I got the shock of my life. It comes up with a message of "Sorry, that tracking number does not correspond with our records"= PANIC!! But all is well.. it's just that it needs a few days to be processed and handed from the Embassy to the courier. So having a quick look today and they said it will be delivered tomorrow!!! Aaah!
Of course I have booked an eye test for tomorrow (as I had to cancel the last one I booked) so I'll be out a lot of the day. Fabulous. Luckily my aunty has said she will stay in. She has the receipt, the paper they gave me, my bank statement, bank card and student card. So I hope everything is OK. Or I hope it arrives early while I'm still in. Exciting stuff!!
Now, on with the challenge!!
I must confess, when I woke up today it was a sobering thought to think only 3 more weeks going to sleep in my room. Only 3 more weeks being at home. Only 3 more weeks of seeing my friends anytime.
But then..Only 3 more weeks until I'm in the most magical place on Earth. Only 3 more weeks until that beautiful sunny weather. Only 3 more weeks until I get to make brand new friends, and spend the most amazing year with them.
Also my Facebook doesn't know what has hit it today. Kirstie, Kyle and I have been talking pretty much non stop, along with some of the other May 3rd'ers. It's great to get regular conversations going. I don't know what I would have done if I didn't know about the forums and subsequently the Facebook groups. They are such a great way of getting to know everyone :)
Also I went on the tracking website for the courier with my passport/visa. Now when I went to the Embassy they said within 3-5 days. Well by Saturday I decided to look online (I got excited OK?!) and I got the shock of my life. It comes up with a message of "Sorry, that tracking number does not correspond with our records"= PANIC!! But all is well.. it's just that it needs a few days to be processed and handed from the Embassy to the courier. So having a quick look today and they said it will be delivered tomorrow!!! Aaah!
Of course I have booked an eye test for tomorrow (as I had to cancel the last one I booked) so I'll be out a lot of the day. Fabulous. Luckily my aunty has said she will stay in. She has the receipt, the paper they gave me, my bank statement, bank card and student card. So I hope everything is OK. Or I hope it arrives early while I'm still in. Exciting stuff!!
Now, on with the challenge!!
To the Embassy... and beyond!
So, it's been a while since last post.. I do apologise!! Unfortunately that cold hit me HARD, I couldn't eat anything for days, so lived off the eternal life-force that is chocolate milk!
Also my Mum had to have an operation on Wednesday, was only meant to be in hospital a day- but it was 2 in the end. So its been a bit busy around here!
Anyway, yesterday was Visa time!! (I apologise that this is going to be a very long post, but I will cover step by step the Embassy interview to let you know what you are in for!)
So I went to bed around 1am.. to get up at 5, but got no sleep :( And then headed to the station for the 5.52 service to London Victoria via East Croydon. (I went with my aunty up to London as my Mum was now unable to come- and she's the expert on London- damn!) Once at Victoria we got the 73 bus to Oxford Street and my heart was jumping out of my chest with nerves, I glimpsed the Embassy out the window and panicked! We then walked past Selfridges and took a left down N Audley Street to the Embassy. I left my aunty at a nearby Starbucks and went on to meet Kyle outside.
I'm so glad that Kyle managed to get the same day, it really calmed me down to have someone else there at the same time and it was really good company!
First we queued up (this was about 8.10) and luckily the queue wasn't too long! There were two women at a podium who checked that we didn't have any electronics, checked our appointment forms and passport and then we joined another queue. We were then called up one by one to a security guy who juct checked our passport and let us into the security queue.
At this point we were called 4 people at a time into the security booth (Kyle got called into one 4.. I got called into the next ha!) Here can be a little nervy, it works the same as at an airport.. bag on x-ray conveyor and walk through the scanner. But then the security guard asked us to step to one side- which panicked me a bit!!- this was only to make sure all our bags were OK and then we were let out!! You then make your way round to the side of the building and Kyle was waiting for me. Inside, we handed our confirmation letters to the lady behind the desk, she scanned the barcode and then gave us our numbers! Kyle was N169, and I was N170.
So then you enter the airport lounge style waiting room, eagerly watching the screens for our numbers. After around 5 mins we were called. There are windows 1-11 on one side which you are first called to, and then 12-25 interview windows are round the corner. At the window they ask for all your documents- including your notice of action and passport. I got asked a few questions and for a letter as I am replacing someone and it is their name on their documentation.. but still this was all fine. This is also where they take your fingerprints. You are then handed a blue form to fill in and sit down. Now this was where me and Kyle had a problem- as neither of us had brought a pen! Luckily a nice lady lent us one, so take a pen with you!! The form is just for your address and contact number for the courier service. We saw some guy who was the lead singer of a band-- Kyle recognised him, I did not haha, but I will Google him later!
So again we were sat waiting and chatting.. and my number got called for the interview window. I was so suprised it happened so quickly! There was already a girl at the window, another girl waiting behind her and then me! It was a little crowded. Anyhow- when it was my turn I was asked what I would be doing in the United States (HRC), how long I planned on staying (a year), did I have any family in the U.S (No), had I been to the U.S before (yes) and that was it! She may have asked another question.. but we only talked for around 3 minutes. I don't remember her actually saying "Visa approved" but she directed me to the courier service.. and was smiling, so I'm pretty sure everything is OK!
I headed to the courier service desk.. paid the £14.80 on my card (They don't accept cash) and I was all done- by about 9 o'clock! Wonderful! But Kyle was still waiting to be called to the interview! So I went and kept him company and had a chat for about 20 mins until he was finally called. So we were both done by half 9 which is still amazingly fast and then headed off to meet our families.
I surprised my aunty, she thought I was going to be a lot longer, but it meant we could get on with our day! As we paid ridiculous amounts to get on the first train I was determined to make the most out of a beautifully sunny day in London town. First stop:- Primark on Oxford street (well we had to walk past it anyway!), but it was too busy and manic for my liking so I didn't get anything! We then hopped on a bus down to Victoria and walked round to Buckingham Palace. It was so unbelievably busy round at the palace so we hung around, it was then we realised they were doing the changing of the guard! We stuck around for over an hour until it was all done but thankfully I had my camera. Got some wonderful touristy shots of the soldiers and guards. Plus we also saw a CBS film crew and Jennie Bond (BBC Royal correspondent)
Next we walked up the Mall to Trafalgar Square, stopped for some lunch in Garfunkle's, and decided to go into the National Gallery. My aunty and I always used to go in the summer holidays when I was a kid and I loved it.. plus it's free so it makes for a good day. I made sure to check out my favorites, Monet and Canaletto and my aunty got to see Constable... then suddenly I hear someone call my name. It was Kyle! him and his parents had decided to sample some culture as well and were also checking out the sights! By this time my aunty and I were knackered, so one last stop down at Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Got a few photos down there and also got to hear Big Ben chime. At this point we could barely stand so jumped on a very busy bus back to Victoria, then a very busy train back home.
We walked back through the door around 6pm and Mum was fast asleep (She'd worried me, as through the day I'd tried phoning her with no answer- panic stations) So I went to bed for a nap, had dinner, rang a friend then put myself to bed at 9pm, which is unheard of for me!
All in all it was a great day, with great weather and great company! I'm really glad I was with at least one other person down at the Embassy because it's broken the ice. Also we are sitting next to each other on the flight, so it won't be awkward trying to find him in the departure lounge!
Again, sorry for the long post but a lot happened yesterday and I thought if I was going to document it, I might as well be thorough! I hope it helps!
Also my Mum had to have an operation on Wednesday, was only meant to be in hospital a day- but it was 2 in the end. So its been a bit busy around here!
Anyway, yesterday was Visa time!! (I apologise that this is going to be a very long post, but I will cover step by step the Embassy interview to let you know what you are in for!)
So I went to bed around 1am.. to get up at 5, but got no sleep :( And then headed to the station for the 5.52 service to London Victoria via East Croydon. (I went with my aunty up to London as my Mum was now unable to come- and she's the expert on London- damn!) Once at Victoria we got the 73 bus to Oxford Street and my heart was jumping out of my chest with nerves, I glimpsed the Embassy out the window and panicked! We then walked past Selfridges and took a left down N Audley Street to the Embassy. I left my aunty at a nearby Starbucks and went on to meet Kyle outside.
I'm so glad that Kyle managed to get the same day, it really calmed me down to have someone else there at the same time and it was really good company!
First we queued up (this was about 8.10) and luckily the queue wasn't too long! There were two women at a podium who checked that we didn't have any electronics, checked our appointment forms and passport and then we joined another queue. We were then called up one by one to a security guy who juct checked our passport and let us into the security queue.
At this point we were called 4 people at a time into the security booth (Kyle got called into one 4.. I got called into the next ha!) Here can be a little nervy, it works the same as at an airport.. bag on x-ray conveyor and walk through the scanner. But then the security guard asked us to step to one side- which panicked me a bit!!- this was only to make sure all our bags were OK and then we were let out!! You then make your way round to the side of the building and Kyle was waiting for me. Inside, we handed our confirmation letters to the lady behind the desk, she scanned the barcode and then gave us our numbers! Kyle was N169, and I was N170.
So then you enter the airport lounge style waiting room, eagerly watching the screens for our numbers. After around 5 mins we were called. There are windows 1-11 on one side which you are first called to, and then 12-25 interview windows are round the corner. At the window they ask for all your documents- including your notice of action and passport. I got asked a few questions and for a letter as I am replacing someone and it is their name on their documentation.. but still this was all fine. This is also where they take your fingerprints. You are then handed a blue form to fill in and sit down. Now this was where me and Kyle had a problem- as neither of us had brought a pen! Luckily a nice lady lent us one, so take a pen with you!! The form is just for your address and contact number for the courier service. We saw some guy who was the lead singer of a band-- Kyle recognised him, I did not haha, but I will Google him later!
So again we were sat waiting and chatting.. and my number got called for the interview window. I was so suprised it happened so quickly! There was already a girl at the window, another girl waiting behind her and then me! It was a little crowded. Anyhow- when it was my turn I was asked what I would be doing in the United States (HRC), how long I planned on staying (a year), did I have any family in the U.S (No), had I been to the U.S before (yes) and that was it! She may have asked another question.. but we only talked for around 3 minutes. I don't remember her actually saying "Visa approved" but she directed me to the courier service.. and was smiling, so I'm pretty sure everything is OK!
I headed to the courier service desk.. paid the £14.80 on my card (They don't accept cash) and I was all done- by about 9 o'clock! Wonderful! But Kyle was still waiting to be called to the interview! So I went and kept him company and had a chat for about 20 mins until he was finally called. So we were both done by half 9 which is still amazingly fast and then headed off to meet our families.
I surprised my aunty, she thought I was going to be a lot longer, but it meant we could get on with our day! As we paid ridiculous amounts to get on the first train I was determined to make the most out of a beautifully sunny day in London town. First stop:- Primark on Oxford street (well we had to walk past it anyway!), but it was too busy and manic for my liking so I didn't get anything! We then hopped on a bus down to Victoria and walked round to Buckingham Palace. It was so unbelievably busy round at the palace so we hung around, it was then we realised they were doing the changing of the guard! We stuck around for over an hour until it was all done but thankfully I had my camera. Got some wonderful touristy shots of the soldiers and guards. Plus we also saw a CBS film crew and Jennie Bond (BBC Royal correspondent)
Next we walked up the Mall to Trafalgar Square, stopped for some lunch in Garfunkle's, and decided to go into the National Gallery. My aunty and I always used to go in the summer holidays when I was a kid and I loved it.. plus it's free so it makes for a good day. I made sure to check out my favorites, Monet and Canaletto and my aunty got to see Constable... then suddenly I hear someone call my name. It was Kyle! him and his parents had decided to sample some culture as well and were also checking out the sights! By this time my aunty and I were knackered, so one last stop down at Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Got a few photos down there and also got to hear Big Ben chime. At this point we could barely stand so jumped on a very busy bus back to Victoria, then a very busy train back home.
We walked back through the door around 6pm and Mum was fast asleep (She'd worried me, as through the day I'd tried phoning her with no answer- panic stations) So I went to bed for a nap, had dinner, rang a friend then put myself to bed at 9pm, which is unheard of for me!
All in all it was a great day, with great weather and great company! I'm really glad I was with at least one other person down at the Embassy because it's broken the ice. Also we are sitting next to each other on the flight, so it won't be awkward trying to find him in the departure lounge!
Again, sorry for the long post but a lot happened yesterday and I thought if I was going to document it, I might as well be thorough! I hope it helps!
"Hello Wazowski! Fun-filled evening planned for tonight? ...
Then I'm sure you filed your paperwork correctly, for once ...
You're stunned silence is very reassuring."
April Fools!
So yes.. the time for April Fools jokes has come and gone..
I did try and tease a couple of my friends, saying I was unsure about going to Disney. Except one of them took it really seriously and started lecturing me on airline cancellation fees etc, so it was time to come clean. Needless to say he wasn't impressed!
Also, I'm ill. Nothing serious, but my throat is all red and swollen and now I've developed a cough. Wonderful... the nose will soon start up and then I'll have a full blown cold. Mum did the "I told you to take your multivitamins" speech too. I honestly don't know where I could have picked it up from but oh well, just dosing up on cold & flu tablets and chocolate milk.
I must admit it is nice to be at home while ill though. At Uni when I got sick I'd still have to drag myself out of bed and round to ASDA to get OJ, tablets, tissues, throat sweets and any other supplies even if I felt like death warmed up. At those times all I wanted was someone to look after me, so I am slightly enjoying having my Mum here.. better make the most of it! Only 1 month 1 day left, can't believe it's all happened so quickly.
Uh oh, and the sneezing begins :-s
I did try and tease a couple of my friends, saying I was unsure about going to Disney. Except one of them took it really seriously and started lecturing me on airline cancellation fees etc, so it was time to come clean. Needless to say he wasn't impressed!
Also, I'm ill. Nothing serious, but my throat is all red and swollen and now I've developed a cough. Wonderful... the nose will soon start up and then I'll have a full blown cold. Mum did the "I told you to take your multivitamins" speech too. I honestly don't know where I could have picked it up from but oh well, just dosing up on cold & flu tablets and chocolate milk.
I must admit it is nice to be at home while ill though. At Uni when I got sick I'd still have to drag myself out of bed and round to ASDA to get OJ, tablets, tissues, throat sweets and any other supplies even if I felt like death warmed up. At those times all I wanted was someone to look after me, so I am slightly enjoying having my Mum here.. better make the most of it! Only 1 month 1 day left, can't believe it's all happened so quickly.
Uh oh, and the sneezing begins :-s
"Just had to invite him to stay didn't we?!
Serve him tea, sit in the master's chair, pet the pooch!"
400!! ... A fine British actress.
Well!! I haven't been too well today-- so I didn't check my blog until now. And oh my lordy!! you know when I posted a few weeks back saying how I'd just got to 200 views? I normally average around 8-12 views a day. But today... 41!! In one day! Thats madness! But it's made me super happy! so that's taken my total up to over 400! So a massive THANK YOU to each and every one of you!
And it has begun!
... Work on my Florida bucket list of things to do. I may post a couple of things on here at a later date but at the moment there are just a few ideas. I'm thinking that when it is done, get it laminated and pin it up on my wall out there. OR print it in a little booklet format so I can put it in my bag and tick things off as I go!!
So today is the 5 week marker! It is coming around so fast.. in 2 weeks the April 12th lot will be off and then it's us. Also Kyle has booked his Visa appointment for the same time as me! At least I'll have company if kept waiting at the US Embassy and it'll also give us chance to get to know each other better for the flight.
Now I am a massive fan of Imdb.com, and it was while I was doing my daily browse there that I realised it was Keira Knightley's birthday a couple of days ago. I don't know why, (well maybe I do- Johnny Depp), but a few years ago I wasn't a big fan of her as an actress. But I've got to say I've really warmed to her. I love Pirates of the Caribbean and her portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice. I've also seen her in Atonement, The Edge of Love and The Duchess to name a few. And I've come to the conclusion that she is a fine British actress at the beginning of a wonderful career- she's only 26! So unfair! (Ok, maybe that's why I didn't like her!)
Sorry for the tangent, it's just something I was thinking about that I thought I'd share. Happy belated birthday Keira, and come my birthday I'll be spending it with The Mouse!
"Who's the leader of the club, that's made for you and me?
M-I-C--K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E!
Hey there! Hi there! Ho there!
You're as welcome as can be!
M-I-C--K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E!"
Filling in the online Visa form (DS-160)
Soo I got round to doing the online DS-160 form for my Visa.
If you are doing the CRP, you will have to fill in this form after booking your Embassy appointment, print out the confirmation and take it with you to the Embassy.
Yummy Jobs have provided an excellent set of instructions and FAQs which I recommend printing out, or having open in another window or tab, while you are completing the DS-160. They are so useful, and reading through them first will make you feel more at ease when certain confusing questions come up.
As everyone else has said; save often! I was lucky and was signed out twice in just over an hour, but I can see how annoying losing all that information would be. Especially if you are asked about previous employment, as I was. Oh and keep a copy of your CV and your passport close to hand!
The form is relatively straight forward. Only a few things I got a bit confused with, one thing being the place of issue for UK passports. After some Googling, I put London, UK so I'm hoping that's alright! There is also the long checklists of your criminal background; have you ever/ or are you coming to the U.S to undertake in; prostitution, terrorism, money laundering, drug dealing etc... to which I hope all Disney applicants would answer No! just remember that it's all fun and games among friend but the U.S Embassy and Government does not have a sense of humour and will not take kindly to you joking about these things! And your Visa will be denied, so is it really worth it?!
My photo was also fine, it uploaded clearly and passed the suitability- Yay! That was one of the main things I was worried about. You have to print out the confirmation at the end too, so make sure your printer is alright. My printer is a bit random, trying to print out the form at first and it only printed the picture. Second time (in colour) was fine but gave me Ariel-red hair (I have medium brown hair, so didn't think the Embassy would take kindly to that). Third time printed out fine- in black and white- I have also included the colour copy, just in case, but I'm pretty sure it will be alright- the barcode is clearly readable.
So now my folder is all ready; got the confirmation of DS-160, confirmation of Visa interview, receipt of MRV fee, existing passport and past passport, a spare 2x2 inch visa photo and my offer letter. I'll probably take my whole Disney folder up that has everything in, just so I don't forget anything! Then hopefully everything will go smoothly and I get to be part of the Disney dream!
If you are doing the CRP, you will have to fill in this form after booking your Embassy appointment, print out the confirmation and take it with you to the Embassy.
Yummy Jobs have provided an excellent set of instructions and FAQs which I recommend printing out, or having open in another window or tab, while you are completing the DS-160. They are so useful, and reading through them first will make you feel more at ease when certain confusing questions come up.
As everyone else has said; save often! I was lucky and was signed out twice in just over an hour, but I can see how annoying losing all that information would be. Especially if you are asked about previous employment, as I was. Oh and keep a copy of your CV and your passport close to hand!
The form is relatively straight forward. Only a few things I got a bit confused with, one thing being the place of issue for UK passports. After some Googling, I put London, UK so I'm hoping that's alright! There is also the long checklists of your criminal background; have you ever/ or are you coming to the U.S to undertake in; prostitution, terrorism, money laundering, drug dealing etc... to which I hope all Disney applicants would answer No! just remember that it's all fun and games among friend but the U.S Embassy and Government does not have a sense of humour and will not take kindly to you joking about these things! And your Visa will be denied, so is it really worth it?!
My photo was also fine, it uploaded clearly and passed the suitability- Yay! That was one of the main things I was worried about. You have to print out the confirmation at the end too, so make sure your printer is alright. My printer is a bit random, trying to print out the form at first and it only printed the picture. Second time (in colour) was fine but gave me Ariel-red hair (I have medium brown hair, so didn't think the Embassy would take kindly to that). Third time printed out fine- in black and white- I have also included the colour copy, just in case, but I'm pretty sure it will be alright- the barcode is clearly readable.
So now my folder is all ready; got the confirmation of DS-160, confirmation of Visa interview, receipt of MRV fee, existing passport and past passport, a spare 2x2 inch visa photo and my offer letter. I'll probably take my whole Disney folder up that has everything in, just so I don't forget anything! Then hopefully everything will go smoothly and I get to be part of the Disney dream!
"I know something's starting right now,
Watch and you'll see,
Someday I'll be,
Part of your World"
Arranging a Visa appointment at the US Embassy
Well, sorry it has been a few days since I posted- I told you that I'd received my Visa pack (Monday) and planned to call the next day. However it is now Friday evening and I haven't told you what happened!! Sorry!
I've looked round a lot of blogs out there, and they haven't really covered step by step of the whole visa process, just the appointment at the Embassy. So this is for all those people out there who are yet to receive their pack and genuinely want to know what happens when you call.
I have to say though, I am ridiculous when it comes to phoning people (especially companies/businesses/official people) I'm a nervous wreck. God knows how I managed to get through my phone interview with Yummy and then for HRC. Of course the info that I have been provided with, and provide here is in relation to UK applicants for the CRP. I am merely passing on my experience and have no official instructions or knowledge as to how things are run!
So yes, a few of the UK May 3rders wanted to meet up in London and get an embassy appointment together. However it was becoming a bit of a palava trying to sort it out and nobody had rung the Embassy yet. So at around 5pm (they close at 9pm) I decided to take a deep breath and pick up the phone. Please be aware that it does cost £1.23 per minute to call, so I would advise using a home phone as it would probably be more from a mobile. The first minute or so is just prepping you what to have with you for the call. These are:
I've looked round a lot of blogs out there, and they haven't really covered step by step of the whole visa process, just the appointment at the Embassy. So this is for all those people out there who are yet to receive their pack and genuinely want to know what happens when you call.
I have to say though, I am ridiculous when it comes to phoning people (especially companies/businesses/official people) I'm a nervous wreck. God knows how I managed to get through my phone interview with Yummy and then for HRC. Of course the info that I have been provided with, and provide here is in relation to UK applicants for the CRP. I am merely passing on my experience and have no official instructions or knowledge as to how things are run!
So yes, a few of the UK May 3rders wanted to meet up in London and get an embassy appointment together. However it was becoming a bit of a palava trying to sort it out and nobody had rung the Embassy yet. So at around 5pm (they close at 9pm) I decided to take a deep breath and pick up the phone. Please be aware that it does cost £1.23 per minute to call, so I would advise using a home phone as it would probably be more from a mobile. The first minute or so is just prepping you what to have with you for the call. These are:
- Your I-797B Notice of action- as you will need the case type, the receipt number and validity dates.
- Your passport- you'll need the number
- Debit/Credit Card- they don't accept Visa Electron.
So then you press the option for your visa, *Ring ring* "Sorry we are experiencing a high volume of calls, please call again later." *Duurrrrrr* -- Now for me, later equated to putting the phone down, counting to 3 and then pressing redial. Listening to the speech again and getting straight through to a person! (Wow so busy haha)
They do ask you first of all what type of Visa you are applying for- for the CRP it will be a year long Q-1 Visa, for the ICP it will be the 3month J-1 Visa. They will also ask where you would like the appointment- there are two choices; London and Belfast. This is when they will ask for the I-797B info and they also ask a few general questions about you, name, address, date of birth etc then you pay the fee of $150 and select an appointment time! The guy did say I could have an appointment as early as Wednesday morning, but seeing as I hadn't yet done the online form, this wasn't a great choice. So I've given myself a couple of weeks to get sorted. Also I have got an early time slot- that way I can hopefully be in and out relatively quickly. Am still deciding whether I'll be going and staying overnight in London or going up on the early train.
So now that is all booked for 2 weeks time. Also I went and got some special photos taken for the visa- as they want 2x2inch passport style photos. I don't think passport photos are suitable.. which is annoying.
Just have to complete the online form now.. I shall keep you updated on how that goes!
"Hello? Cobra Bubbles? Aliens are attacking my house... They want my dog
... Oh, Good! My dog found the chainsaw."
Visa Time!!
So we were right!! My Visa pack arrived bright and early this morning at around 9.30.
I'm not going to upload any pictures of the documents enclosed- as I don't want to get in any sort of trouble with the U.S Government! but it looked exactly like the Disney pack, except it contains several letters about your visa, instructions and the I-94 White card to be filled in before arrival.
My pack was slightly different- and slightly more confusing. As I was on the waitlist, I received a place when somebody else dropped out due to unforeseen circumstances. And so some of the visa documentation had already been put into motion before I was offered the place, meaning there are a few extra letters explaining to me (and to the US Embassy as they have been sent a copy) the change in employee, name, etc.
Next step is to phone the US Embassy tomorrow. I don't know how they do their appointments, whether they block out a specific time/date to deal with Q-1 visas, but I have heard that these are normally processed early in the day. So the plan is, to wait until Kirstie has finished work tomorrow, go on msn.. and then for one of us to ring first (I think) select a date, then the other one ring and get the same date.. and then text Kyle so that he can get the same date too. Then we can tell the rest of the group what date to select (if the Embassy don't give us the date I mean)
Then after that it will be time to fill in the online application for the Visa.. and for this you are apparently always signed out, and have to upload a passport photo. Thinking that I may have to go to a place in town that take custom shots to scale. Then I'll have to go to a friends house to scan in the photo and save it to a USB stick. I just have to make things complicated! Thank god Yummy have given us a detailed set of instructions!
I think I'll leave purchasing the insurance for a week or so. As I'll have to pay the $150 over the phone tomorrow for the visa. And also I guess there is still that possibility that the Embassy could turn round and say no. Silly fear I know, but I'll hold off buying the insurance until the visa is approved. Then it's all systems go- "To infinity and beyond!"
Anyway.. To the March 22nd group, have an amazing journey! Particularly Stevie, who was one of the first people I met in Starbucks before the face to face interviews in London- on October 2nd :) I spent most of the day with her and a few others (you know who you are!) Have a great time making magic, and I shall see you out there in 6 weeks 1 day! xx
"Buzz- Excuse me, I think the word you are searching for is 'Space Ranger'.
Woody- The word I'm searching for I can't say because there's preschool toys present!"
I'm not going to upload any pictures of the documents enclosed- as I don't want to get in any sort of trouble with the U.S Government! but it looked exactly like the Disney pack, except it contains several letters about your visa, instructions and the I-94 White card to be filled in before arrival.
My pack was slightly different- and slightly more confusing. As I was on the waitlist, I received a place when somebody else dropped out due to unforeseen circumstances. And so some of the visa documentation had already been put into motion before I was offered the place, meaning there are a few extra letters explaining to me (and to the US Embassy as they have been sent a copy) the change in employee, name, etc.
Next step is to phone the US Embassy tomorrow. I don't know how they do their appointments, whether they block out a specific time/date to deal with Q-1 visas, but I have heard that these are normally processed early in the day. So the plan is, to wait until Kirstie has finished work tomorrow, go on msn.. and then for one of us to ring first (I think) select a date, then the other one ring and get the same date.. and then text Kyle so that he can get the same date too. Then we can tell the rest of the group what date to select (if the Embassy don't give us the date I mean)
Then after that it will be time to fill in the online application for the Visa.. and for this you are apparently always signed out, and have to upload a passport photo. Thinking that I may have to go to a place in town that take custom shots to scale. Then I'll have to go to a friends house to scan in the photo and save it to a USB stick. I just have to make things complicated! Thank god Yummy have given us a detailed set of instructions!
I think I'll leave purchasing the insurance for a week or so. As I'll have to pay the $150 over the phone tomorrow for the visa. And also I guess there is still that possibility that the Embassy could turn round and say no. Silly fear I know, but I'll hold off buying the insurance until the visa is approved. Then it's all systems go- "To infinity and beyond!"
Anyway.. To the March 22nd group, have an amazing journey! Particularly Stevie, who was one of the first people I met in Starbucks before the face to face interviews in London- on October 2nd :) I spent most of the day with her and a few others (you know who you are!) Have a great time making magic, and I shall see you out there in 6 weeks 1 day! xx
"Buzz- Excuse me, I think the word you are searching for is 'Space Ranger'.
Woody- The word I'm searching for I can't say because there's preschool toys present!"
Visa...Insurance... General Update :)
Well I haven't really posted much the past few days, (1) Because I don't want to bore you with the monotony of my days in which nothing Disney related happens, (2) Because I've been kinda busy.. sort of, haha!
So, lets have an update!
The next group of CRP's are due to arrive on Tuesday (March 22nd) and the April 12th group have/ are in process of getting, their Visa's. And so Yummy sent out an e-mail to our May 3rd bunch that our Disney Visa packs have arrived in the UK and will be posted out to us. So hopefully that will arrive tomorrow or Tuesday!
Also- I have solved my insurance dilemma. After talking to Kirstie- Thank you so much for putting up with my stupid questions my lovely!- I have decided on a plan. I think I shall be purchasing backpacker insurance from 24/7 insurance.
Now it is illegal (or something bad-ha!) for Yummy or whoever to recommend an insurance, you have to go look and see which plan is best for you! But you have to make sure that the insurance covers you for working abroad.. I looked in some of the activities that were covered and everything was fine :)
So if anything happens to me out there I am keeping all the paperwork of insurance, every single little detail. Just in case.
Next thing will be opticians to see about contact lenses/ new glasses.. what joy!!
So, lets have an update!
The next group of CRP's are due to arrive on Tuesday (March 22nd) and the April 12th group have/ are in process of getting, their Visa's. And so Yummy sent out an e-mail to our May 3rd bunch that our Disney Visa packs have arrived in the UK and will be posted out to us. So hopefully that will arrive tomorrow or Tuesday!
Also- I have solved my insurance dilemma. After talking to Kirstie- Thank you so much for putting up with my stupid questions my lovely!- I have decided on a plan. I think I shall be purchasing backpacker insurance from 24/7 insurance.
Now it is illegal (or something bad-ha!) for Yummy or whoever to recommend an insurance, you have to go look and see which plan is best for you! But you have to make sure that the insurance covers you for working abroad.. I looked in some of the activities that were covered and everything was fine :)
So if anything happens to me out there I am keeping all the paperwork of insurance, every single little detail. Just in case.
Next thing will be opticians to see about contact lenses/ new glasses.. what joy!!
"Wazowski! You didn't file your paperwork last night... Don't let it happen again
...I'm watching you, Wazowski. Always watching.
Always"
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