Showing posts with label Disney International Programs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Disney International Programs. 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!!!
The first few days...
Please bare with me, this will be a long post- theres a lot to recap!!
Tuesday 3rd May-
I had to get up at about 5.30am after only 2 hours sleep to get ready for the airport. The taxi ride up to Gatwick was awful, I had a lump in my throat and was really trying not to cry otherwise it would set my Mum off. I went and checked in and dropped off my bag (that was slightly overweight), and both BA staff tried to change my seat, which I was having none of!! Then came time to say goodbye :( My Mum was actually the strong one, and I was the blubbering mess!
So once through security I went to look for Kyle, as we had arranged to meet at HMV. Surprise surprise HMV isn't there anymore. But we found each other, and then Mark, and then came the flight.
Flight was... hmm... pretty bad. I am not one for turbulence (as the boys will tell you), and the seatbelt sign seemed to be on all the time. Still, we got here safe and sound, and headed for Immigration. Now just a heads up, when you land you have to present your white I-94 card AND the blue customs form. The immigration officer will also ask a few questions about where you are working and how long you intend to be in the United States, also if you have brought through any cigarettes or alcohol. Luckily I got a really nice, chatty guy but others can be a bit scary.
So then we headed for baggage claim, then the Mears transportation desk where we had arranged to meet Julie, from Canada. Problem is, theres 4 Mears desks in Orlando international, 2 for each terminal. So when Julie wasn't there Kyle and I decided to go on a hunt for her! Unfortunately we didn't find her but we did find Sergio and Tania from Mexico and while we had been waiting Kirstie's flight from Manchester had also landed. So that was the 6 of us and we headed over to Vista Way.
Upon arrival we were welcomed by 3 or 4 of the Disney team, they checked our names off and gave us an arrival pack, Disney program guide book and our room keys. There was a slight glitch here as everyone was put in The Commons, and mine said Patterson Court- which I didn't mind but it meant I wasn't near any of the others. Luckily it was just a printing mistake and I was in The Commons. They show a short video welcoming you to the housing complexes, and offer some refreshments- which were much needed!
At this point we all piled into the minivan and round to The Commons, they dropped us off at each of our buildings so we didn't have to walk far with all our bags. Mark and I were put in the same building, which was a comforting thought to have someone so close. In my apartment a French girl welcomed me and took me to my room, and we talked for a little while. Also in my room is another new arrival, Cristina, from Mexico. It was so good to have someone else going through exactly the same process, and she is really sweet.
We are in a 4 bedroom apartment which means that I am sharing with 7 other girls, I've met 5 of them so far. We have 2 British, 3 Japanese, an Italian, a Mexican and a girl from France. So a really mixed bunch.
Then we had the epic first night trip to Walmart!! Except buses finish running at around 5pm on a Tuesday, so we had to get a cab there and back. We all went for the "bed in a bag" option; which has your sheets, comforter and pillow cases for around $45, and then the pillows are around $8 each.
When we got back, we all went back to our apartments. Cristina and I came back and met two of our housemates and ended up staying up until about 1am before sorting out bedding and then sleep.
Wednesday 4th May
We had to be up,and at the Clubhouse at The Commons for 9.55 to start off Orientation. We all met outside about 5 minutes before we went in, and as we entered "We're all in this together" from High School Musical was playing (LOL). The Disney guys basically talked to us about the main reasons for people getting terminated, what not to do etc. Health and safety. And then we had about an hour to spare before heading off to do more orientation stuff. So us UK lot, Cristina and some of the Canadians went and sat by the pool just chilling, chatting and getting to know each other. Then at 12.40 we went and caught a bus to Vista Way. Here we had to present some of our paperwork (They tell you what stuff to bring before hand) and then we signed housing agreements, policy forms etc. We had to queue up to sort out payroll cards/forms except because I'm HRC (an operating participant company) I was taken past all that stuff to the front of the queue to have passport/visa checked. And then it's time for your Housing ID photo! This has to be in the Disney look, so I had to take my necklace off, and a few of the girls were given a jacket to wear just to cover their shoulders for the photo. The ID is then printed then and there for you to start using! (Before this you are given a sheet of paper which you have to carry around with your passport to get you into The Commons, or whatever housing complex)
After this we then headed to Walmart again as I hadn't picked up any grocery items. I just went for the basics really; Apple juice, cereal, milk, bread, butter. I'll do more shopping at another time, but at the moment I just haven't really been hungry, and the first few weeks are going to be all over the place until we settle into some sort of routine! I then went and hung out with Julie and a friend of hers from home that is here over at Antonia and Kirstie's apartment. Then coming back I got to talk to a few of my housemates a bit more, find out more about them. One of them even makes balloon animals which is pretty cool. Finally I rolled into bed and then spent some time on Facebook and on the internet catching up on stuff, it's nice to have the internet all sorted here. The girls I'm living with have just bought a wireless router which is great and we all just chipped in $6 and it seems to be a really good, fast connection which is a relief as I'd heard some places were really slow.
So this is an insanely long post.. hopefully I can update you on the goings on of today a little bit later or tomorrow. Then I can develop some regular blogging :)
Tuesday 3rd May-
I had to get up at about 5.30am after only 2 hours sleep to get ready for the airport. The taxi ride up to Gatwick was awful, I had a lump in my throat and was really trying not to cry otherwise it would set my Mum off. I went and checked in and dropped off my bag (that was slightly overweight), and both BA staff tried to change my seat, which I was having none of!! Then came time to say goodbye :( My Mum was actually the strong one, and I was the blubbering mess!
So once through security I went to look for Kyle, as we had arranged to meet at HMV. Surprise surprise HMV isn't there anymore. But we found each other, and then Mark, and then came the flight.
Flight was... hmm... pretty bad. I am not one for turbulence (as the boys will tell you), and the seatbelt sign seemed to be on all the time. Still, we got here safe and sound, and headed for Immigration. Now just a heads up, when you land you have to present your white I-94 card AND the blue customs form. The immigration officer will also ask a few questions about where you are working and how long you intend to be in the United States, also if you have brought through any cigarettes or alcohol. Luckily I got a really nice, chatty guy but others can be a bit scary.
So then we headed for baggage claim, then the Mears transportation desk where we had arranged to meet Julie, from Canada. Problem is, theres 4 Mears desks in Orlando international, 2 for each terminal. So when Julie wasn't there Kyle and I decided to go on a hunt for her! Unfortunately we didn't find her but we did find Sergio and Tania from Mexico and while we had been waiting Kirstie's flight from Manchester had also landed. So that was the 6 of us and we headed over to Vista Way.
Upon arrival we were welcomed by 3 or 4 of the Disney team, they checked our names off and gave us an arrival pack, Disney program guide book and our room keys. There was a slight glitch here as everyone was put in The Commons, and mine said Patterson Court- which I didn't mind but it meant I wasn't near any of the others. Luckily it was just a printing mistake and I was in The Commons. They show a short video welcoming you to the housing complexes, and offer some refreshments- which were much needed!
At this point we all piled into the minivan and round to The Commons, they dropped us off at each of our buildings so we didn't have to walk far with all our bags. Mark and I were put in the same building, which was a comforting thought to have someone so close. In my apartment a French girl welcomed me and took me to my room, and we talked for a little while. Also in my room is another new arrival, Cristina, from Mexico. It was so good to have someone else going through exactly the same process, and she is really sweet.
We are in a 4 bedroom apartment which means that I am sharing with 7 other girls, I've met 5 of them so far. We have 2 British, 3 Japanese, an Italian, a Mexican and a girl from France. So a really mixed bunch.
Then we had the epic first night trip to Walmart!! Except buses finish running at around 5pm on a Tuesday, so we had to get a cab there and back. We all went for the "bed in a bag" option; which has your sheets, comforter and pillow cases for around $45, and then the pillows are around $8 each.
When we got back, we all went back to our apartments. Cristina and I came back and met two of our housemates and ended up staying up until about 1am before sorting out bedding and then sleep.
Wednesday 4th May
We had to be up,and at the Clubhouse at The Commons for 9.55 to start off Orientation. We all met outside about 5 minutes before we went in, and as we entered "We're all in this together" from High School Musical was playing (LOL). The Disney guys basically talked to us about the main reasons for people getting terminated, what not to do etc. Health and safety. And then we had about an hour to spare before heading off to do more orientation stuff. So us UK lot, Cristina and some of the Canadians went and sat by the pool just chilling, chatting and getting to know each other. Then at 12.40 we went and caught a bus to Vista Way. Here we had to present some of our paperwork (They tell you what stuff to bring before hand) and then we signed housing agreements, policy forms etc. We had to queue up to sort out payroll cards/forms except because I'm HRC (an operating participant company) I was taken past all that stuff to the front of the queue to have passport/visa checked. And then it's time for your Housing ID photo! This has to be in the Disney look, so I had to take my necklace off, and a few of the girls were given a jacket to wear just to cover their shoulders for the photo. The ID is then printed then and there for you to start using! (Before this you are given a sheet of paper which you have to carry around with your passport to get you into The Commons, or whatever housing complex)
After this we then headed to Walmart again as I hadn't picked up any grocery items. I just went for the basics really; Apple juice, cereal, milk, bread, butter. I'll do more shopping at another time, but at the moment I just haven't really been hungry, and the first few weeks are going to be all over the place until we settle into some sort of routine! I then went and hung out with Julie and a friend of hers from home that is here over at Antonia and Kirstie's apartment. Then coming back I got to talk to a few of my housemates a bit more, find out more about them. One of them even makes balloon animals which is pretty cool. Finally I rolled into bed and then spent some time on Facebook and on the internet catching up on stuff, it's nice to have the internet all sorted here. The girls I'm living with have just bought a wireless router which is great and we all just chipped in $6 and it seems to be a really good, fast connection which is a relief as I'd heard some places were really slow.
So this is an insanely long post.. hopefully I can update you on the goings on of today a little bit later or tomorrow. Then I can develop some regular blogging :)
So long, farwell, auf wierdersein, goodbye
I can't believe how quickly time has passed in the past few weeks/days/hours.
I found out that I was going to Disney 7 weeks ago. And although that was plenty of time to get everything sorted to go, I haven't really come to terms with the fact I am going to Disney!
And then this past week, I had planned to do so much stuff, but I've been on autopilot. Getting contacts sorted, money changed etc. And then today came, and again- autopilot. I sorted clothes again, unpacked what was in suitcase and then packed properly (with ALOT of help from Mum of course).
And then suddenly it was 7.30pm so I went up to my friend Ben's house to see him, his girlfriend (who I'm quite good friends with), and their son (my Godson) Zac. When I got there, there was Miranda (Ben's sister), Gen, Dylan, Alex and Ben's Mum. Although I didn't get time to talk to everyone individually; I did get time to cuddle Zac and hang out with them all as they started watching a film. I decided to leave at about 9.30 and just said bye to Gen and slipped out the door so they could carry on watching the film. Ben followed me out and gave me a hug, then his girlfriend Catherine, and then Miranda! So although I didn't want to disturb them, some got up to say goodbye anyway! There were no tears, I just said see you later/soon. I haven't been able to say actual "Goodbye" to anyone really.
On Saturday my friend Abi from Uni dropped by for a quick catch up and goodbye. It was really good to just sit and chat. I haven't been able to say goodbye to a lot of my friends as there has been so much stuff been going on. But also I don't really think I do big goodbyes, I just slip away quietly.
As I said, I don't think I've actually thought about leaving. I just don't think I can- I'll get too upset. I'd rather just deal with things as they happen. I've just been thinking "I need to pack" which has taken me all until now. Now I'm updating and charging ipod, phone, kindle etc. Even though I'm taking my laptop with me...
So now its 2am, I have to be up at 5.30, taxi arrives at 6.30 to go to the airport. Wow. The adventure begins.
I will try to update as soon as possible, but as you will probably expect- the next few days are going to be insanely busy, with hardly any sleep. So stay tuned, wish me luck, and if you're already out there I think I'll definitely need a hug after the emotions of today :( uh oh.. here come the waterworks!
See you real soon Orlando!
I found out that I was going to Disney 7 weeks ago. And although that was plenty of time to get everything sorted to go, I haven't really come to terms with the fact I am going to Disney!
And then this past week, I had planned to do so much stuff, but I've been on autopilot. Getting contacts sorted, money changed etc. And then today came, and again- autopilot. I sorted clothes again, unpacked what was in suitcase and then packed properly (with ALOT of help from Mum of course).
And then suddenly it was 7.30pm so I went up to my friend Ben's house to see him, his girlfriend (who I'm quite good friends with), and their son (my Godson) Zac. When I got there, there was Miranda (Ben's sister), Gen, Dylan, Alex and Ben's Mum. Although I didn't get time to talk to everyone individually; I did get time to cuddle Zac and hang out with them all as they started watching a film. I decided to leave at about 9.30 and just said bye to Gen and slipped out the door so they could carry on watching the film. Ben followed me out and gave me a hug, then his girlfriend Catherine, and then Miranda! So although I didn't want to disturb them, some got up to say goodbye anyway! There were no tears, I just said see you later/soon. I haven't been able to say actual "Goodbye" to anyone really.
On Saturday my friend Abi from Uni dropped by for a quick catch up and goodbye. It was really good to just sit and chat. I haven't been able to say goodbye to a lot of my friends as there has been so much stuff been going on. But also I don't really think I do big goodbyes, I just slip away quietly.
As I said, I don't think I've actually thought about leaving. I just don't think I can- I'll get too upset. I'd rather just deal with things as they happen. I've just been thinking "I need to pack" which has taken me all until now. Now I'm updating and charging ipod, phone, kindle etc. Even though I'm taking my laptop with me...
So now its 2am, I have to be up at 5.30, taxi arrives at 6.30 to go to the airport. Wow. The adventure begins.
I will try to update as soon as possible, but as you will probably expect- the next few days are going to be insanely busy, with hardly any sleep. So stay tuned, wish me luck, and if you're already out there I think I'll definitely need a hug after the emotions of today :( uh oh.. here come the waterworks!
See you real soon Orlando!
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!
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"
Disney International Programs
I'm in an upbeat mood, so I thought I'd post to counteract the dullness of some of the previous posts.
I thought I'd just tell you guys how I found out about the Disney International Programs. (http://www.disneyinternationalprograms.com/)
A few years back.. (2008 if I remember correctly) My family and I were on holiday in Orlando, and we stayed over the July 4th holiday. So around July 5th or 6th we went to the Florida Mall, and into one of my favourite shops- Old Navy.
In there I had a converstation with a shop assistant at the check out.. which ran something like this:-
S.A- Where did you spend July 4th?
Me- In the Magic Kingdom, it was manic- but AMAZING
S.A- Oh really? I was in Epcot, as I work at Downtown Disney too, and it's easier to get home from there.
Me- Oh Wow that's cool, how did you get into working for Disney? I'd love to work there, any chance you can get me a job?! HA!
S.A- Are you genuinely from the U.K??And serious about working for Disney?
Me- Yes! and Yes, born and bred
S.A- Then you should so check out the Disney International Programs. Just google it and find out more, and if you are interested go ahead. There are tonnes of people from China, Mexico, France and the UK, etc.
So yea, in a nutshell that is how I found out. It's amazing what talking to a few local people will turn out. And now I have this amazing opportunity that over 1000 people tried for this past year. And I won't squander it. I plan to learn as much as I can, do as much as I can. You only live once right?! I may not make a fortune with this job.. but I'll make amazing friends and amazing memories- guaranteed. That's worth more than money. Memories last forever.
I thought I'd just tell you guys how I found out about the Disney International Programs. (http://www.disneyinternationalprograms.com/)
A few years back.. (2008 if I remember correctly) My family and I were on holiday in Orlando, and we stayed over the July 4th holiday. So around July 5th or 6th we went to the Florida Mall, and into one of my favourite shops- Old Navy.
In there I had a converstation with a shop assistant at the check out.. which ran something like this:-
S.A- Where did you spend July 4th?
Me- In the Magic Kingdom, it was manic- but AMAZING
S.A- Oh really? I was in Epcot, as I work at Downtown Disney too, and it's easier to get home from there.
Me- Oh Wow that's cool, how did you get into working for Disney? I'd love to work there, any chance you can get me a job?! HA!
S.A- Are you genuinely from the U.K??And serious about working for Disney?
Me- Yes! and Yes, born and bred
S.A- Then you should so check out the Disney International Programs. Just google it and find out more, and if you are interested go ahead. There are tonnes of people from China, Mexico, France and the UK, etc.
So yea, in a nutshell that is how I found out. It's amazing what talking to a few local people will turn out. And now I have this amazing opportunity that over 1000 people tried for this past year. And I won't squander it. I plan to learn as much as I can, do as much as I can. You only live once right?! I may not make a fortune with this job.. but I'll make amazing friends and amazing memories- guaranteed. That's worth more than money. Memories last forever.
"Come roll in all the riches all around you,
And for once, never wonder what they're worth"
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