2 in one Day?? Have I lose my mind???

And the answer is yes ladies and gentlemen. I may have just lost my mind. Okay, not really. I just felt like posting again. I wanted to talk to you about going seasonal. You may be asking what's seasonal? Well, seasonal is what you can become after your program ends. If you go seasonal, you must work 40 hours within one year to keep all your benefits. It's a really sweet deal actually.

To go seasonal, you must have a clean record card! (Look at my post about it!) Keeping your record card clean is a big deal. If you're within the point range to stay around, then you can talk to a manager about going seasonal. Then you come back & work from time to time & play in the parks too!

Well, that's about all there is to becoming seasonal. I'd reccomend it if you wanna stay a part of the Disney family! Have a magical day (again!)

What Do I Wear?

This time last year, I was beginning to pack for this amazing adventure that you willl soon be experiencing. I am so excitied for each of you! Well, real quick, you're probably thinking, what clothes do I need? Well, I'm going to break it down for yall! First off, you need to decide how much time you're willing to spend doing laundry. If you KNOW you aren't going to do it once a week, I'd advise packing more, if you don't mind doing laundry, pack less. (This list is going off of what I wore as a girl from Texas where 60 degrees means I need a jacket, but hopefully it will still help).
Since you're going in the Spring, you'll need a mixture of winter/spring/summer clothes. In January, expect a lot of wind, and temperature anywhere from 40 degrees up to 75 degrees. February is the same way. The average for March is 60-75, and by the end of March expect the 80s. April and May are almost exactly like summertime (80+ almost every day). If you're Spring Advantage, it only gets hotter from there. If you extend, it starts getting colder in October at the earliest (and by colder I mean 60s). After October expect the "winter" of Florida, but at any given moment, it could spring right back up to the 80s.
As I said, you'll need a variety of clothes.
Nothing too heavy, mostly hoodies and light jackets or sweaters will work for the "winter" days. A wind breaker would be great, but you won't typically need anything for the cold.
You'll need a mixture of pants and shorts. In Florida one day may be shorts weather, and the next pants weather. For you girls, I'd suggest bringing a sun dress/skirt or two, if you're into those things. I loved wearing sun dresses when it was nice out.
As for tops, again, a mixture of summer/winter shirts will work nicely. For you girls, make sure to bring some tanks and bring cute sweaters too!
As for shoes, I'd bring sneakers and flip flops. For girls, bring a couple of pairs of going out shoes as well. Whatever you do, don't overpack on the heels. I love wearing heels, but I honestly only wore heels once the 5 months I was down there.
Don't forget your bathing suit! Bring a few if you have them. I lived in my bathing suit, and you the beach is not too far away. Make sure to make a trip to see the beaches of Florida! (Just not in March. Spring break crowds are CRAZY)
Now, don't forget the typical underwear/socks/bras that kind of thing. If you're into bright colorful socks, make sure to bring some plain black/white socks for work. They won't let you wear the neon ones. Oh and ladies, make sure you have a white bra for work. Multiple times I forgot this, and let's just say I prayed it didn't rain that day. Yes, you may wear white and yes, if your bra is brightly colored, they can see your bra through it rain or shine.
As for work shoes, you'll need nonslip soles, but they'll tell you the color when you get there. You can buy work shoes at Walmart, just make sure you bring the money for it.

Also, don't forget your Disney Look clothes for Traditions and class days (if you're taking any).

Have a magical day!

I'm back, until yall get there at least.

I had decided I wasn't posting anymore blogs, but when I looked at my blog today, I realized I was letting quite a few followers down. So, I'm going to post a few more, at least until yall arive at Disney. Then you'll be living the experience and you won't need my help anymore. For those of you who don't know, I decided not to do the program this spring. I decided to wait because I didn't want to miss my sister's senior year of high school (we are extremely close and I want to be a part of everything... prom, graduation, you know). But anyways, we are going to talk about the amazing ICP's you'll meet there. I know I have at least one ICP following this blog. He'll actually be going to Disney in 3 days!

ICP's are International College Program students. You'll meet them from all over. Argentina will be getting there in the next week or so, students from China and Japan will be ariving the same time as you, Thailand people will be getting there in March, and Mexico students in May. You'll also meet people from Australia, Korea, France, and Brazil to name a few. Get to know the ICP's! It's so interesting meeting people from across the world! I now have friends in Thailand, Japan, Mexico, China, and Australia! We keep in contact through facebook and it's amazing to learn about their culture. They want to learn ours too! It's an amazing experience meeting these people.

Take advantage of these friendships. If they're close enough, you may go to visit them in their country one day!

I know this one is short, but I'm just getting back into the swing of things. I'll post again when I can (hopefully soon, but finals are this week so we'll see!)

As always hav a magical day!

Bucket List!

What's new with Amber? Well, I'm going to a big football game this Saturday. SFA vs. SHSU! Go Lumberjacks! I'm really excited about going. I made a shirt for it that says Bearkat + Football = Sucks! I'm so ready for this game. And I got great seats too! But anyways, thanks to Frank, here's the new blog! So everyone has a list of must-dos while at Disney! A Disney Bucket List! I actually had this conversation with my friend, Frank last night, and it inspired me to write a blog about it. So first, I'm going to put some things that I think everyone should have on their bucket list that I've already done (but will probably do again):

-Festival of the Lion King
-Fantasmic
-Character Dining Experiences... MULTIPLE!! (Cinderella's Royal Table?? Yes Please! and Cape May Cafe are on my lists for this program)
-Big Thunder Mountain during Wishes
-Find a paint brush on Tom Sawyer's Island
-Finish the Kitchen Sink at Disney's Boardwalk! Make sure you bring friends!-Prime Time Cafe
-Enchanted Tiki Room
-The Maelstrom (Norway)
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-Have a Dole Whip
-Draw a Character in the Animation Courtyard at Hollywood Studios
-Picture on a Speederbike (Star Wars) at Hollywood studiosMagic Kingdom Opening Ceremony-Try the Drinks at Club Cool in Epcot
-Ride the roller coaster simulator inside Innoventions
Now here are some things I want to do this program!-Cirque du Soleil
-Disney Quest
-Get Character Autographs... not an autograph book though! (backpack or vinylmation)
-Caricature with Mickey Ears on-Scifi Drive-In
-Ellen's Universe of Energy
-Driving Experience at the Disney World Speedway
-The Spirit of Aloha Polynesian Luau
-The Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
-Disney Cruise
-Hot Air Balloon at Downtown Disney
-Experience Main Street at Opening
-Frontierland Hoedown (I've seen it multiple times, but I've never experienced it as a guest)
-Babbling Water Fountains Outside of MouseGear in Epcot
-Meet Characters on the World Showcase
-Swahili Showers in Animal Kingdom
-Tony's Town Square Restaurant
-Maze garden in the UK pavillion in Epcot
-Find R2D2 on the Great Movie Ride
-Meet Herb and Flora at Camp Minnie Mickey
-Look up at the end of It's Tough to be a Bug
-Rafiki's Planet Watch
-Hidden Mickey's!
-Visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge
-Fulton's Crab House
-Campfire at Boardwalk/Fort Wilderness
-Pastry at French pavillion
-Boma!
-Dole Whips at the Polynesian
-Writer's Shop at Hollywood Studios
-Port Orleans Resort
-Rose & Crown during Illuminations
Also I want to spend a whole day at a park and enjoy the park, not worry about the rides. I want to experience the shows and the magic throughout the parks.

The Wonderful Thing About Tiggers... Housing Stuff!

So let's see, I have auditions on Sunday that I'm super excited about. I actually practiced last week a few times. I pretty much danced and acted like a fool all around the living room while my family laughed at me and told me what to do. "Act like a princess", "a cowboy!" "Peter Pan" "Tinkerbell" "Eeyore!" This lasted for a while, but I actually feel like it helped. I plan on doing it again one day this week and then possibly learning some crazy Hannah Montana Dance routines or something like that. YouTube can ver very helpful with that stuff lol =D. Besides that, I had a very busy weekend! I'm not usually a party girl, but that's exactly what I did all weekend. I spent Friday with my best friend at her house and Saturday up at my old college with one of my besties there! I want to go back soon, but probably with less partying lol. But anyways, to the blog!

Today we're gonna talk about the dreaded... HOUSING RULES and INSPECTIONS!!!

I'm not gonna lie. This part of the program sucks. Housing Rules can really get on people's nerves, same with the inspections. The housing rules are for our safety and blah, blah, blah, but they do get annoying. My parents however, loved the rules because they felt I was really safe in housing. First we'll start with

CARS!!
-If you bring a car, you must get a parking decal the first day you're there. You must show a valid driver's license, vehicle registration (it's okay if the car is in your parent's names, you just need the registration), and proof of insurance on the car (if your name isn't on the insurance card, you need to bring a copy of the policy that has your name on it so they can tell you are an insured driver). Everytime you come into the complex in your car, you must roll down your window and if someone is in the back seat, roll down their window too. They'll check for the decal and check your housing ID's. If you are going into a complex that you don't live in, you and the car must be out by 1AM! At the end of your program you'll return the decals.
ID'S!!
-Since I already mentioned them once, I might as well tell you about them next. You will get your ID at check in. It will have your picture on it along with VW (for Vista) CS (for Chatham) or PC (for Patterson). You must show your ID every time you go into a housing complex. Before 9PM this ID will get you into any complex. After that, you can only get into your complex, or you must be signed in at the front if you don't live at the complex. Keep your ID with you while you're at a friend's apartment (even if you live in the same complex) just in case they think you don't belong there.
SIGNING PEOPLE IN!!
-Since I mentioned this too, I'll tell you how signing people in works. Pretty much, when your friend who isn't CP comes at any time or lives in a different complex after 9PM, you must sign them in. You'll go up to the front and fill out a paper. Then security will make a copy of your friend's ID, and they're in! Not too hard. Just make sure they're out by 1AM or you can get termed, and everyone in your apartment too! (I had a roommate who got termed because she tried to sneak a guy in after 1AM. My whole apartment could've gotten termed, but only she did since we were all sleeping and had no clue what was going on!)
SLEEPOVERS!!
-Sleepovers can be fun, but you can only have sleepovers with people who live in the same complex as you. (Oh, and make sure your roommate is okay with it, out of common courtesy) No friends or family who do not live in your apartment complex can stay the night!! No exceptions!! It isn't against the rules however, to have sleepovers with people in your complex!
ALCOHOL!!
-Alcohol is fun, if you're over 21. If you aren't, don't get caught drinking on property! If you live in non-wellness, you can have alcohol, but if you supply it to minors, you and the minors may get termed. If you are a minor, don't bring the alcohol into your apartment. I'm not telling you not to have it or not to drink, that's up to you. Just be responsible and don't get caught with it! Oh and if you come into the complex drunk one night, as long as you have your ID, they won't say anything to you.
INSPECTIONS!!
-Inspections suck! About once a month (sometimes more, but usually less), they will inspect the rooms. For inspection, your apartment needs to be SPOTLESS! No dirty dishes, vacuum/sweep/mop the floors, wipe the counters. Nothing on the floors, bathrooms must be clean. Anything against the rules must not be seen at this time. They can and may look under your bed if they think something illegal is in there, and they can ask you to open your locker if you are there. If your apartment is too dirty, they will fail you, and each roommate will have to pay $25.00 for a cleaning service to come in and clean the apartment! Doesn't matter if it's one roommate's fault. You all pay! We never had any problems with this on my last program. We just cleaned really well right before the inspection. They post something right by the entrance about when inspections will be. They can have surprise inspections, but I only heard of them having one and that was because someone told there was alcohol in a wellness apartment. If you pass every part of the inspection, you get a white glove award! That means you get free chocolate/candy and your picture taken for the wall. We never got one, but I want to try this time!

Those are pretty much all the big rules I remember. But then again, Price Management (the people in charge of housing) have a few rules that really make no sense. So here are the ones I remember!
-No weapons, pretty obvious. But Nerf Guns, Water Guns and play Light Sabers are weapons! Be aware!
-No candles, not too dumb
-No pets, not too dumb either (yes, fish count as pets!)
-No rollerblades, for safety? I guess?
-"2 holes per wall rule" Each roommate can put up a bulliten board in their room. That's the only holes they want. (You can put more up, just have the stuff down for inspections. I did this for one month, then realized I didn't want to have to pull down my posters and pictures once a month. I reccomend you not doing it)
-No signs on the outside of doors, another dumb rule. We did this for a roommate's birthday and got a warning that told us to take it down
-No towels hanging over balcony, friends did this to air out their towels from the pool. Got another one of those warnings!
-No locking deadbolt before shutting door so you can come in and out as you please without unlocking door. We did this all the time! Got in trouble twice for it! The door locks back everytime you shut it, so bring your key!
I think that's all I got right now. If I think of more, I'll let you know. Also, let me know if I missed something or if you have questions.

TTFN Ta Ta For Now!

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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Something Happy & Some Help From you!

So today, I'm going to do something different. I want yall to help me with the next blog I post. E-mail me or comment your most memorable Magical Moment! Then, hopefully on Thursday or Friday, I want to post a blog with my favorite Magical Moments and yours too!!! So please guys, e-mail/coment your favorite Magical Moment you experienced. Nothing is too small!

Now, to today's blog. I promised something happy for yall in this blog since the last one was so serious. I honestly can't think of any advice to give right now, but I just felt like blogging today. So let's do some Random Useless Disney Trivia!!! I used to love doing this while I played in the parks my last program. If you have any you would like to share, please e-mail/comment them, and I'll add it to my next blog.

Did you know...

that the 2 books Belle refers to in the opening song ("Belle") from Beauty and the Beast are Jack and the Bean Stalk and Sleeping Beauty?

Donald Duck's middle name is Fauntleroy?

that the sign above Pooh's house is for Mr. Sanders? He is the person who lived in Winnie the Pooh's house before Pooh moved in. They just forgot to take the sign down!

Topolino is the Italian name of Mickey Mouse.

The 10/6 on the The Mad Hatter's Hat is the price tag -- it's 10 shillings, and six pence!

There are no lost children in the Magic Kingdom? There are only lost parents. The reason for this distintion is because when a child becomes seperated from their parents, they are often afraid that their parents will be upset at them. When you tell them that it is not they who are lost, rather their parents, it shifts the "blame" to the parent.

That each costumed cast member had to stay in their own land and was not allowed to go into other lands while in costume. The only time this was allowed is when the cast members were asked to help with PAC (Parade Audience Control). There were 2 - 3 cast members from each land that would help with the 3 o'clock parade every day. This rule was to keep the themeing of each land consistent.


There's some to start you off. Have a magical day everyone! New blog up soon (maybe tomorrow???)

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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Rough Night, Rough Morning, Time to Blog!

So the amazing boyfriend I told yall about? Yeah, he told me he needed a break last night (well this was last week sometime, I never got around to posting this blog). He's going through a lot right now, so maybe he really just wanted a break, but I've heard that line before. A break usually means a break up, so I'm not keeping my hopes up. I already decided I'm too strong to cry anymore about a guy, so I'm just going to take a deep breath and plunge head first into school, work, blogging, and getting ready for Disney. Enough with the sadness... Good news! I found my roommate! I'm very excited to be rooming with her and can't wait to finally meet her! Other good news, now that my ex won't be coming down to see me that weekend, I can go to the character audition! So let's see, what to tell yall about today... I don't really have any questions to go off of, so I'm going to tell  you a bit about the points system.

The point system and your record card is your life at Disney. If you want to go seasonal, you need a good record card, if you want to change roles (after your program), you need a good record card. Your record card is based on a point system. Here's a basic break down of the point system (at least what I can remember of it).
Late (even by 1 minute) -1/2 point on your record card
Late over 2 hours- 1 point on your record card
No Show- 1 point on your record card
Call out*-1 point on your record card.
Don't clock out -1/2 point on your record card
Don't clock out on time -1/2 point on your record card.

*Calling out with for any reason will give you this point. Unless you are given an ADO (authorized day off), calling out will cost you 1 point.

See how these can really rack up??? So be careful not to get too many. I was recently told that in order to extend or go seasonal, you need to have LESS than 4 points on your record card (they just changed this from 7). So be careful!!

Also, you can get reprimands. They have safety reprimands and attendance reprimands among others. I'm not sure how safety reprimands work, but attendance reprimands work like this. (unless they changed it) If you have 3 points during your program, you will get a reprimand. At 6 and 9 you should get additional ones. Your managers will be notified that you have too many attendance points the day you go over 3 points (that means the next time you are late or get any number of points in another way). When you get a reprimand, it isn't good. At 3 reprimands you can (and most likely will) be terminated.

Just remember, your record card is your life. Keep track of your points, and work to never get any. If you are late for a reason out of your control (like if your bus breaks down), you need to talk to your manager IMMEDIATELY! If it's possible, talk to them before you clock in. They may be able to help you out. Managers are there to help you.

I feel like this blog is very down, so I want to let you know that although record cards suck, there aren't many other things that do! Next blog, I promise will be about a much happier subject. If you have suggestions, questions, or comments. Either e-mail me or comment below. Have an amazingly wonderful day!

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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So I feel like I haven't talked to y'all or updated you on anything in a while. So, okay let's see. We're at 114 days until my arrival and only 17 days until Jonathan comes to town! I went to the Texan's game today, which was a lot of fun, but I'm really mad that we lost. And once again, I'm blogging instead of doing homework.

So today... or should I say tonight, we're going to talk about the professional attire needed for traditions. Traditions is a class you'll attend your third day in Orlando, and it is the day you get your name tag and ID that will let you into the parks! It can be boring, but just have fun and actually participate in the class. You'll love it.

We'll start with the guys because for guys it's pretty easy.

GUYS!

You should wear some form of slacks with a button down and tie. Jacket is optional. Pick conservative colors. Anything too bright will not be in Disney Look. I'd only wear one if it's chilly outside. (Yes, you will be outside for part of the class) Dress shoes. It's not too hard for guys to figure out what to wear. If you plan to wear jewelry, you are allowed one ring per finger and one watch. I'm not sure if guys can wear necklaces. Earrings are not allowed. Oh! And you must be clean shaven and style your hair appropriately. Don't wear T-shirts, Jeans, or sneakers. They are not appropriate. Think of it as what you would wear to a business interview.

Now, for the ladies, this is a tad more complicated.

GALS!

You can wear slacks with a blouse, a skirt with blouse, or a business appropriate dress. You may also wear a business suit. Jacket with these outfits are also optional, but remember you'll be outside for a while. If you choose to wear a skirt or dress, keep it business appropriate length (knee length). Also, you must wear hose with this, either all black or nude. Dresses and shirts must have sleeves (short or long). Shoes should be black or brown and nothing flashy. Don't wear anything that shows your toes or heels (not Disney look). You may have a peep toe, but that's it. Remember, you will go outside and you will be walking, so wear shoes you can walk in. Flip flops are NOT appropriate! Style your hair appropriately, and it cannot be wet or look wet. It is not Disney look. Once again, keep your colors conservative. Nothing bright, and no bold prints. Keep to solids if at all necessary. If you wear jewelry, at most, it should be one ring per finger, one necklace, one pair of earrings (either studs or hoops no bigger than a dime), and a watch. I'm not sure if bracelets are in Disney look.  If you have your nails painted, keep it clear, French tips, or a neutral red or pink (think pale colors). Makeup should be natural with no bold colors. Keep your makeup pallet to pale colors or ones that match your skin tone. They should not be able to tell you are wearing makeup when it comes to eyeshadow, blush, and lip color. Eyeliner and mascara is okay but should be either black or brown.

That's about it everyone! If I missed anything or you need clarification on some of the rules, let me know. I'm always here to help. I hope everyone has a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious day!

Busted AC in Texas... NOOOO!!!!

So today at the office every woman has her hair up in a ponytail, is rolling up her pant legs, and pushing up her sleeves. I guess that's what happens when the AC doesn't work in Texas when it still feels like summer outside! That's pretty much all that's going on in my office today, but I did get another e-mail from our dear friend Angela. She had some more valuable questions that I'd like to share with yall.

Roommates:

How many roommates did you have and did you all get along?

I lived in a three-bedroom apartment in Patterson Court, which means there was a total of 6 of us in one apartment. It was actually very nice having 5 roommates. There was always someone home to hang out with and we all got along amazingly. The only major fights any of us had was towards the end of the program, but we all made up in the end and love each other regardless. I talk to all my former roommates at least a few times a week still.

I’ve heard a few horror stories about roommates, but for the most part, roommates tend to get along from what I’ve seen and they actually turn into some of your best friends on the program.

Did you already have your roommate before you arrived? (Is it bad to arrive without a

roommate?-Currently do not have one and am moving in on the 19th)

Last program, I signed up for the Disney Roommate Matching system. I met my first roommate through there and we messaged on facebook back and forth up until check-in. Now, this roommate ended up getting termed after 2 weeks at Disney, so another person got put in our apartment, but we got along well too. I know a lot of people do that or meet their roommate through facebook or something like that. That’s what I plan to do this time. It’s perfectly fine however, to go there without a roommate. I know people who have done it and made great friends with there roommates.

Once all the roommates have arrived do you decide who will share rooms or had everyone already agreed who they would be rooming with?

For me, I had already chosen who to share a room with. When we got there, the picking of the rooms was first come first serve. If everyone you room with doesn’t have a roommate they already know they want to share with, then you can decide when you meet.

Character Auditions:

Do you know of anyone who has auditioned for character roles in the past?

I have seven friends I can think of off the top of my head that has auditioned for character roles. Of them, three were immediately accepted for the role, one was pended, and two were not accepted into the role. The advice I always hear about this role is to do everything BIG!

Do most people who audition receive a role?

Unfortunately, not everyone receives an entertainment role that auditions. The role is very limited to those who fit the requirements and have the skills to do the role correctly. That doesn’t mean however, to not audition. If you can try, do! If you get the role it’s amazing, and if you don’t it was a great opportunity nonetheless.

Misc.

Do you get to choose whether you work in a resort or a park?

You do not get to choose where you work. You can put in a request, but they are not guaranteed. They will place you where you need to. If you want to put in a request though, you can e-mail them at wdw.college.recruiting@disney.com.

Are there a lot of QSF&B roles at resorts?

QSF&B is everywhere! Every place that sells food that is not a restaurant with a waiter/waitress is considered quick service! So this role can be anywhere. If you’ve been to a resort, you know that each resort has a place to get food like hamburgers, pizza, snacks, and other foods. These places are quick service, so yes, there are a lot of quick service at resorts. There are a ton at the parks as well.

Do you get to choose or request which park you work at?

This question I already answered above, but no. You can’t choose which park to work at. You can, however, e-mail them a request, but requests are not guarantees.

I hope this helps!

Well I hope everyone's staying cool out there. I'd be more cheery if I wasn't sweating! As always, e-mail me questions and have a magical day full of pixie dust!

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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There's a great, big, beautiful tomorrow. And tomorrow's just a dream away.

The title of this post, I must dedicate to my boyfriend, who is oddly obsessed with the Carousel of Progress. The reason for this dedication must be that he's coming into Houston do visit me! He got his tickets last night and will be here in 22 days! I'm very excited! So anyways...

Angela, from MN, had some wonderful questions about the program that I wanted to share with everyone.

First of all, did you fly to Florida from Texas or drive?  

I drove, and I recommend that anyone who has a car that they can bring with them, to bring it. There is a bus system that will take you to and from work, the mall, and Walmart, but they aren't the most reliable means of transportation. Sometimes they show up early, sometimes they leave early, and sometimes they don't show up at all. So guys if you have a car, bring it. If you have to use the bus system, make sure you leave for the bus earlier than you need to be there.

And what large items will I need to bring?

As for large items, I brought with me a set of plastic drawers. I recommend any one with a lot of stuff or a lot of clothes to get one of these. You can get them at any Walmart or Target, so if you want to buy them in Florida, you can. Also, when you find your roommate, decide which of you is bringing the TV (don't forget the cable cord!). You only need one per room, so if your roommate doesn't have a TV, you may want to consider bringing one. You may end up putting your TV in the living room if no one else brought one. Don't forget the DVD player too! Besides that, I really didn't bring any large items. I brought clothes (you'll need it for cooler weather as well as hot weather), my bedding, toiletries, stuff for the kitchen (like dishwashing soap, dish towels, and for me an ice tea maker), my favorite pictures in frames, a small bulletin board, my DVDs, DVD player and a TV. I also brought by Wii with me, but I played it maybe twice the whole time I was down there. I severely over packed my last program, and I plan to bring a lot less this next program. Extra blankets for the living room is a must, unless you want to haul around your comforter every time you get cold, and I brought throw pillows for my couch which were very helpful. Also, one of my roommates brought a foldable butterfly chair. This isn't needed, but it was nice to have an extra seat when we had friends over.

My parents say "pack light" and not bring the bulletin boards and movies that I want for my room since I will only be living there for seven months. They also think that I will not be spending much time in the apartment and do not need to decorate, what do you think?

I agree you should pack light, but then again 7 months is over half a year! You won't need or have room for all your office supplies, 12 towels, 20 wash rags, every bit of makeup you've ever owned, and all the clothes you own. I think you should go through your clothes and don't bring anything you know you won't wear. If you think you'll only wear it once, I wouldn't bring it either. You're sharing a closet and bathroom with someone so keep that in mind. Now, as for the bulletin board and DVDs, I say bring them. You're only allowed one bulletin board per person per bedroom; so only bring one with you. As for the DVDs, bring the ones you know you'll watch. We had movie nights 3 or 4 times a week in my apartment, and sometimes we had movie days too. So DVDs are really a good idea. It is true you won't be spending all your time in the apartment. You'll be working a lot, but for the first few months you get there, the parks will close at around 8. So, unless you want to sit around and be bored or go out and party every night, you'll need a few things for amusement, like your TV, maybe your favorite board game and a deck of cards. As for decorations, the rules of the apartments you will be living in does not allow more than "two holes" per wall. That means, one bulletin board per person in your room, maybe one shared bulletin board in the common areas, and maybe a clock on a wall in the kitchen. (You can have more, but once a month they inspect the apartments, so you'll have to take it down and put it away for inspections) So for decorating, keep it to a minimum. Only bring your favorite stuff that can go on your bulletin board or on your half of the dresser space. I kept my favorite framed pictures on my half of the dresser and my jewelry box. My TV took up part of the space of the dresser too. So for decorations, pack light.

Also, how much money did you end up spending on food, souvenirs and other activities while you were there? When the semester was over did you at least make more money than you spent?

First thing about money, when you get here, make sure you have money for at least 2 weeks of living. You will get very small paychecks the first two weeks. The first week because you won't be working very long, and the second week because they deduct double rent since in the first week you don't make enough money to deduct rent. You'll need grocery money, money to go out to dinner at least once, any money for souvenirs you want, gas money (if you have a car), and a little extra for unknown expenses. I spent about $150 on necessities that I didn't bring with me from home (including groceries, shampoo, soap, that kinda thing), and kept $200 with me for the 2 weeks I was there. You can definitely make it on less money, just be careful about your spending.

I'm going to try and break down the money situation as best as possible during my stay. I personally have a good handle on my money, so I kept my spending to a minimum.

My average paycheck was anything from $170-200, depending on the week. Sometimes you'll make more than that. It also depends on any premiums you get for working in certain locations, but that will all be explained when you get there.

$50.00 a week- Groceries

$40.00 a week- Gas

$75.00 a week- Other food/shopping for the week (this one I'm over estimating, sometimes I         

wouldn't buy anything, and sometimes I'd buy a lot depending on how often I went out and if I went clothes/souvenir shopping.

Total expenses for the week: $165.

So on average I saved anywhere from $5-35 a week. Some weeks I saved over $50 and some weeks I saved less, depending on what I did that week. One week all my roommates and I took a mini vacation to Siesta Keys and I spent a lot more than I normally did, but we had been planning it for a while, so I saved my money for that adventure.

When I came home from the program I had almost $200 saved.

But as I said earlier, spending depends on the person. You do get paid every Thursday, so remember that when trying to figure out how much to save or spend each week.

I hope this helped you Angela as well as all my other readers. I hope everyone has a Zip-a-Dee Doo-Dah day!

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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121 Days!

So my Texan's just won their game! First time EVER in overtime. 2-0 baby! Yes it's Sunday, and Sunday in my house means football, homework, football, family time, and oh did I mention, FOOTBALL! My team just won and I'm feeling great! So of course, I decided it was time for a new blog!
I also wanted to show you this great video. One of my really good friends from my last program made this for his best friend's mom's birthday. It's a cute video, look at it and check out his other vlogs!

It makes me smile every time I see it! So let's see... today's tips for you future CP's is going to be about what to expect your first few days of the program!


Day 1 -Check in Day!!!
Today is when the magic begins! Arrive at Vista Way as soon as you can. Check-in begins at 9, but if you can get there at 8:30, it helps ensure you get the apartment you want. If you did not do the Disney roommate match thing, you don't have to meet up with your roommate, if you met your roommate on facebook or something like that, you need to check in with them to get them as a roommate. After you pick your complex, you'll get your ID and keys, sign up for your parking pass (if you're driving), and either take a bus or drive to your new complex.There you can start unpacking until you have to go to Casting. At Casting, you'll be told where you'll be working, turn in your onboarding paperwork and all that other fun stuff. Make sure you remember to bring 2 forms of IDs or your passport that's described with your onboarding paperwork. You'll also get your schedule for the rest of the week! After you finish there, you get to go back to your new apartment, continue to unpack, and meet your roommates!


Day 2- Rest & Get Settled!!!
This day, you can literally do whatever you want. You can't get into the park free yet, but you can hang out with your roommates, go shopping for groceries, hang out by the pool, or anything else you wanna do!


Day 3-Traditions!!!
For Traditions, you'll take a bus to Disney University, and go to your Traditions class. Make sure you wear professional attire that matches Disney Look. For you girls, that means shoes can not be slingy and cannot show your toes. In Traditions you'll get your ID to get into the parks and your Nametag!

After Traditions...
After Traditions, you'll have classes and training. After your training ends, you'll be working! So have fun and enjoy the program!

As always have a magical day, e-mail, comment, and subscribe! If you have questions, comments, or advice let me know!

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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Celebrate the Dream Inside of you... a Dream that Just Came True

Celebrate A Dream Come True, and you might just find a wish for you. When you close your eyes, then you realize, any dream is possible!

I'm going to Disney World!! January 19th! I've totally already told you that, I'm just that excited. I also got some other good news today. One of my really good friends from my last program, Nate is applying to go back too! He's gonna try to get the same move in days & we're staying at the same complex together! SO EXCITED!

Okay now for my advice of the day! We're gonna talk about some of the Disney Lingo and Abbreviations!

Onstage-where guests can see you and interact with you. When you are on stage you are the perfect Disney Cast Member.

Backstage-behind the scenes. When you cannot be seen by guests.

Cast Members-you the employees of the Disney Company!

Guests-Our customers. We never call them customers. They are our guests!

Roles-Your various jobs. You can be in quick service, merchandise, etc.

Costumes-Your uniforms.

Attractions-Rides/Exhibits guests can see.

WDW-Walt Disney World

AK-Animal Kingdom

MK-Magic Kingdom

HS/DS-Both are abbreviations of Hollywood Studios

TTC-Ticket and Transportation Center. The gateway to the Magic Kingdom.

Key to the Kingdom-Resort Guests get Keys to the Kingdom Cards. This card is their room key, meal card (if they have the dining plan), ticket to the park, and if they have a credit card on file their money at the parks.

There are probably more that I missed, but there are some to begin with. As always e-mail me your questions!

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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Guess What Guys!!!

So I just got accepted for QSF&B!!! I'll be arriving January 19!!! I can't wait to get back down there!!! I filled out one of those crazy roommate survey thingys. You probably saw it on the facebook group. If you're looking for a roommate for hopefully Patterson wellness 3 bedroom, just let me know! Okay, now to celebrate I'm going to tell you one of my favorite stories about the Pixie Dust that enchants all of Disney World.

So I was working at Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square in Magic Kingdom one day, and I was put on register. (FYI-Sleepy Hollow is the only place where you can buy funnel cakes at the Magic Kingdom. We also sold waffles, and various soft serve ice cream desserts). I had this adorable little girl come up with her dad to order their food. She looked up at me and asked me what the Mickey shaped waffle was. I told her and she said, "Daddy, how do they make them?". Her dad responded, "Well they have a waffle maker that is shaped like Mickey's head that they make it with." At that, I decided to have a little fun. I said, "Excuse me sir, but you are mistaken. We do not use waffle makers shaped like Mickey's head in this facility." He looked at me strangely while I continued. "We make the waffles using pixie dust." "Pixie Dust?" he asked me. "Yes. The pixie dust makes it look like Mickey's head." At this the little girl looked up and said "Daddy you were wrong! I knew it was pixie dust that did it!" It's totally one of my favorite memories working at Sleepy Hollow!!

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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Some Advice for When you are Accepted

Okay first I'm gonna start off with some goofy advice that I think all future CPs should know. Don't think you can't bring every Disney movie/shirt/picture frame/other stuff you have. Bring it all! I was a little reluctant to bring all my Disney DVDs with me, but I did and all my roommates and I watched were my Disney movies. I brought with me some Mickey Mouse coasters, and we fought over which color coaster we got to use. Everyone that's there loves Disney and is probably some form of immature in at least the Disney state of mind. So if you wear Tinkerbell pj's or your favorite movie is Beauty and the Beast, don't be embarrassed to bring them along. I promise, your roommates and new friends will think they are absolutely amazing!

Also, I know people are still waiting for their acceptance e-mails. Just take a deep breath and be confident. Those purple envelopes will come soon enough. Just remember Hakuna Matata!

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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a little about me

Hey guys! Welcome to my blog! This blog was made with the future CPs in mind, so feel free to ask anything and everything about the program or me here! Just shoot me a quick e-mail or comment below any questions you have, and I'll gladly respond. So first off, here's some quick facts about me.

• Name? Amber
• Age? 19
• Alumni Year? Spring 2010
• Role? Quick Service Food & Beverage (QSF&B)
• Location? Stands West, Magic Kingdom
• Hometown? Houston, TX
• Favorite Disney Character? Belle
• Favorite Disney Princess? Belle
• Favorite part about Program? All the friends I made. I now have friends from one side of the US to the other, and some in Australia, Thailand, China, and Korea!

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e-mail questions to amber.wdwcp.blog@gmail.com

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