DCA Graduate Profile
The Department of Christmas Affairs’ (DCA) Graduate Program offers exciting and rewarding Christmas career opportunities for recent university graduates.
But don’t take our word for it, let’s hear from Eli Louis Franklin, one of star graduates from 2020.
Eli Louis Franklin
Image above: Eli Louis Frankling enjoyed his time working at the Department of Christmas Affairs as part of the 2020 Graduate program.
What made you want to join the DCA?
I’ve always loved Christmas. Ever since I was little, it was always a magical time. I guess I just wanted to help share that magic with others. So, joining the Department of Christmas Affairs was kind of a dream come true for me.
What did you enjoy most about the graduate program?
I think it would have to be the support that I got every step of the way. I really felt like the department was looking out for me.
I got set up with a buddy elf who was always available to show me the ropes and answer all my silly questions.
And I also got loads of time with a career planner from HER (human elf resources), and they really helped to show me the amazing future I can have at the department.
What was the most challenging thing?
Well, I think most of the other grads would say the same thing. Covid-19 really made this a tough year. There was a big part of the year where we had to work remotely, which definitely put a damper on things. There were definitely a few silent nights there.
But the department was really quick to adapt and support people to work from home, while still making sure you felt involved and like a part of the team.Which was your favourite rotation?
Oh gosh, there’s just so many highlights to choose from. The rotations give you such a great opportunity to explore all the great things the department does. Things you wouldn’t normally get a chance to do.
On my rotation with the DCA Design Team I got to work on Icon-eggnog-graphy.
I also got to work with the Data and Analytics Branch, where I helped to create a whole range of different mince pie charts.
I also got to work with the Proc-yule-ment team, helping to make sure all our festivacilities were fully stock and ready to go in the lead up to the Christmas season.
But I guess if I had to choose, I’d say it would be my time with Reindeer Transport Security. It’s not something I ever thought I’d enjoy but getting to work on the Christmas frontlines was really exiting – and I got to meet Rudoloph!
What advice would you give to future graduates?
Just believe in your elf and give it your all. Get involved in everything you can. Everyone’s really welcoming and supportive – on my second day one of my colleagues gave me two turtle doves, which was lovely. So really just make the most of the opportunity.