Pros
I honestly can’t think of any. A complete waste of time.
Cons
I rarely leave negative reviews, but I believe prospective applicants deserve to know about my experience.
I successfully completed Park West’s training program and finished in the top 10 of my class. During graduation, we were welcomed to the “Park West family” and congratulated on becoming international art dealers. Based on the training and onboarding process, I believed I had earned the opportunity to move forward.
Following training, I completed every requirement that was asked of me. I passed my background check, drug screening, required medical examination, submitted all requested onboarding documents, and even completed my payroll/direct deposit information.
To complete the required medical examination, I drove approximately 16 hours round trip, stayed overnight in a hotel, and spent more than $580 out of pocket. I later learned that reimbursement would not be available under the circumstances.
After completing every onboarding requirement, I received a brief email from CSS Shipboard stating that they would not be offering me an agreement. No explanation was provided.
I then reached out to my recruiter, members of the training staff, Human Resources, senior leadership, and CSS Shipboard in an effort to determine whether there had been a clerical error or whether there was something I could correct. Other than being told that CSS does not disclose its internal decision-making process, I received no meaningful response.
I fully respect that every company has the right to decide who they hire. My disappointment is not based solely on the decision itself—it is based on the lack of communication after I invested substantial time, effort, travel, and money completing the required onboarding process.
If you’re considering this opportunity, my advice is simple: keep copies of every email, receipt, and document, and understand that successfully completing training and onboarding may not necessarily result in an assignment.
This review reflects my personal experience.