Are you a student eager to dive into the world of technology but unsure where to start? The Expedia Career Discovery Program (CDP) is your gateway to gaining invaluable experience, building connections, and setting yourself up for a successful tech career. Expedia Group is thrilled to announce the fourth year of this impactful program in 2024, designed to immerse students in a supportive environment, provide mentorship from industry experts, and offer a clear pathway into the tech industry. This initiative is perfect for motivated students from all backgrounds who are passionate about technology and ready to actively participate in a transformative learning journey.
What is the Expedia Career Discovery Program?
Launched in 2021, the Career Discovery Program at Expedia Group is specifically tailored for students seeking to explore technology careers early in their academic and professional lives. It bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world technical application, offering unique learning activities and growth opportunities that may be hard to come by for those without prior professional experience. The CDP is more than just an introductory course; it’s an immersive experience designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and network necessary to thrive in the competitive tech landscape.
Participants in the Career Discovery Program benefit from direct interaction with Expedia Group’s technology professionals. These sessions offer insights into various technology careers, demystifying complex concepts and providing practical knowledge of industry-standard tools and platforms. You’ll learn about essential programming languages, innovative platforms, and the cutting-edge tools used daily by Expedia Group’s tech teams.
A cornerstone of the CDP is the mentorship program. Each participant is paired with a dedicated mentor who can offer personalized career advice, share industry insights, and help you explore your professional ambitions. Mentors guide you in understanding different career paths within technology and provide support as you navigate your early career decisions. Furthermore, the program offers detailed guidance on Expedia Group’s application processes for both their Summer Internship Program and Graduate Program, giving CDP participants a significant advantage when applying for these competitive opportunities.
The CDP also serves as a fantastic networking platform, connecting you with fellow students from diverse universities and colleges, as well as graduates of Expedia Group’s own Graduate Program. These recent graduates offer invaluable peer perspectives on transitioning from academic life to a professional work environment, sharing their experiences and tips for success.
Key Benefits of Participating in the CDP
- Industry Insights: Gain firsthand knowledge about technology careers directly from Expedia Group experts.
- Mentorship: Receive personalized guidance and career advice from experienced professionals.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with students and recent graduates from diverse backgrounds.
- Career Preparation: Understand the skills and knowledge needed to excel in technology roles.
- Application Advantage: Learn about and prepare for Expedia Group’s Internship and Graduate Programs.
- Skill Development: Participate in workshops focused on personal branding, growth mindset, and communication.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Expedia Group’s supportive and inclusive work culture.
Program Highlights Across Regions
The Career Discovery Program is offered in multiple locations, each with unique highlights and opportunities. Here’s a glimpse into what participants experienced in the UK, USA, and India programs:
UK CDP
The UK Career Discovery Program, hosted in Expedia Group’s London office, provided participants with invaluable domain knowledge of the travel industry and insights into Expedia Group’s work culture. One participant highlighted how the program bridged the gap between academic knowledge and professional developer work, crucial for career transitions. Another UK CDP attendee emphasized the program’s role in offering workshops on personal branding and communication, which proved essential for internship interviews. Connecting with mentors and gaining practical interview tips were also cited as significant benefits. Participants in the UK program also enjoyed the vibrant London office environment and numerous social events, fostering a strong sense of community among interns and participants.
USA CDP
The USA Career Discovery Program proved to be a “breaking point” for many participants, clarifying career paths and providing a realistic view of tech industry expectations. A highlight for many was the opportunity to meet with tech specialists and mentors, gaining clarity on career development and real-world work scenarios. Participants appreciated learning about Expedia Group’s programs and receiving interview preparation, which built their confidence and provided essential resources for career advancement. The collaborative and supportive nature of the Graduate Program was also praised, with participants feeling immediately integrated into their teams and valued for their contributions.
India CDP
The India Career Discovery Program is designed to unlock participants’ full potential by offering a deep dive into Expedia Group’s vision, mission, and inclusive initiatives. Hands-on workshops led by industry specialists provided valuable technical expertise and interview best practices. Mentorship played a crucial role, offering personalized feedback on strengths and weaknesses, helping participants optimize their performance in future interviews. Participants lauded the program for providing a comprehensive understanding of Expedia Group and preparing them for a successful career journey within the company. The engaging internship experiences, filled with learning, mentorship, and team collaboration, underscored Expedia Group’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent.
Mentorship: A Cornerstone of the CDP
Mentorship is integral to the Career Discovery Program, offering participants direct access to experienced professionals like Billy Black, a Machine Learning Scientist II at Expedia Group. Mentors provide invaluable guidance, helping mentees expand their knowledge and confidence as they embark on their careers. Billy Black shares, “I have found being a mentor incredibly rewarding. I really enjoy seeing my mentees grow their knowledge and confidence… and hope that I am able to help them along the way with advice from my own experience.” This mentorship not only aids in immediate career development but also fosters lasting professional relationships.
Who Should Apply for the Expedia Career Discovery Program?
The Expedia Career Discovery Program is ideal for students who:
- Are passionate about technology and exploring career options in the tech industry.
- Are currently enrolled in a university or college program.
- Are seeking to gain practical experience and industry insights.
- Are eager to build a professional network and connect with industry experts.
- Are committed to participating fully in program activities and workshops.
- Come from diverse backgrounds and bring unique perspectives.
Take the First Step Towards Your Tech Career
The Expedia Career Discovery Program is more than just a program; it’s a launchpad for your tech career. By participating, you’ll gain the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to succeed in the dynamic world of technology. Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock your potential and join Expedia Group in powering global travel for everyone, everywhere.
Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Join the Expedia Group Emerging Talent & Careers Network today to gain exclusive access to upcoming opportunities, events, interview advice, and insights from Expedia Group leaders. Sign up now!
