How to Apply
Video tutorial for applying for an SCA program
Application Process
General applications are no longer being accepted for 2013. However, we are still accepting members locally recruited from Alaska, Arizona, Washington, and the Virgin Islands for 2013 National High School crews.
New Candidates:
- Complete and then submit each section of the online profile and National Crew application
- Have at least one completed and attached reference
There is a one-time application fee of $25 dollars for US citizens ($40 International citizens).
Returning candidates:
- Login to your application. On the first page, click "Update" next to your National Crew application. Review all of the information to insure that it is correct. Certain questions or sections that you should pay attention to are:
- Update your Availability Dates at the top of the first page
- Fill out the Alumni Questions at the bottom of the first page
Application Tips
Every year we end up with more applicants than positions. We make our selections based on outstanding applications that tell us who you are and why you would be a great crew member. This information following is intended to help you submit a successful application.
Who We're Looking For
If you have read through our webpages are totally psyched to go on a crew, then you are the person we need. Don't think you're going to be disqualified for not remembering which state Yosemite is in. This may sound simplistic but it's true:
The only thing you need to show us is that you will be a great crew member.
The catch is that we will only see you through your application materials, so you need to be sure they are showing yourself at your best. If you take these tips to heart then you stand a good chance of making your application shine.
Specific Tips
Selecting the right applicants is very important for our programs. Our crews are small and quickly become a close knit group. We find that there are five areas that are particularly useful to us when we are evaluating applicants:
- Applicant's demonstrated leadership skills and/or responsibility
- Past participation with extra-curricular groups or volunteer organizations
- Good social and group skills
- Time spent outdoors & the individual's comfort level
- Interest in ecological or environmental topics
If you keep these criteria in mind when you're filling out your application it will help you give us the kind of information that we really need. Having trouble thinking of what to say about yourself? Here is a short brainstorming list to get the metaphorical ball rolling:
- Ever held a job?
- Do you have a passion for the outdoors or environment or something similar?
- Do you help neighbors with chores & projects?
- What's the closest thing to SCA you've ever done?
- Do you do some kind of strenuous work? Farm chores? Sports?
Get your application in and complete. Have all your materials in during the winter months, including references and the additional forms found in this section. In order for your application to be guaranteed review, your application must be completed by March 1st.
Your essay answers are how we get to know you. Do not underestimate the importance of this section. By reading your answers and references (and we read every single one) we are able to learn if you are likely to be comfortable living without a shower or if you seem like someone who can handle a more challenging work project. We only place people on crews we feel will suit them -- because that's how we make happy crews. So make sure you paint a clear picture of yourself.
Pick 'good' availability dates. Selecting good availability dates is absolutely vital. In order to be considered for a crew you must be available for every day the program is in the field. See our Overview page for a list of the current track dates. Keep in mind that SCA occasionally has crews that don’t start on the typical track dates, so including the widest window of availability will insure that you are considered for all programs.
It is also important to consider the duration of your availability. About 80% of our crews are 21- 30 days long. In order to have a reasonable chance of attending a crew, you need to have a window that is at least 30 days from the beginning of one or more tracks. Ideally you should be available for at least two full tracks.
Be willing to go anywhere. Although Alaska and Hawaii may sound like a spectacular place to spend your summer, there is something special to be found in every part of the country. You might be surprised at how much you enjoy a crew along the Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee. The Northwest is our most popular region, which means that you are competing with a higher percentage of candidates for a spot in that location. You can dramatically increase your chances of selection if you are willing to go anywhere.
Pick a good reference. The best references are those who have seen you work in groups outside of school. It's never bad to have a teacher or staff person give you a reference, but SCA really isn't an academic program. A more valuable perspective comes from someone who can comment on your performance in a program that shares something in common with SCA. Examples of great references are coaches, supervisors, youth mentor, or minister.
Keep us in the loop. If any of your information changes after you submit your application, be sure to let us know. Here are common updates that we would love to hear about:
- Availability dates have changed
- Earned the rank of eagle scout
- Completed a first aid course
- Hiked 30 miles of the Appalachian Trail
- Volunteered over Spring Break.
You can always log back into your application, and update any section. The changes you make take effect immediately.
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