Hey guys, I'm Amber Koepke. I'm a junior here at CSU, and I'm currently taking part in the Disney College Program. For those of you who don't know about it, it's a semester-long program where students can come take college credit classes through Disney University while working at fabulous Disney World in Orlando, Florida. I have also chosen to take a few of CSU's classes online to stay on track with my graduation plans. For anyone who has a business minor, the Disney College program is a great opportunity for you. There are Disney classes that will transfer over and CSU offers practically all the classes needed for a business minor online. This way, it won't feel like you are taking off from school for a semester.

I'm on the fall advantage program with Disney, so I've been in Orlando since May and will leave in January. For anyone that might be interested, let me tell you this is one amazing opportunity. I'm living in the brand new, fully-furnished Patterson Square Apartments. It's cheaper than when I lived in Corbett Hall. Disney provides transportation to just about anywhere I would need to go, whether it's work, the grocery store, Wal-Mart, the mall, the post office, etc. The Disney Housing Program is always putting on housing events like pool parties, grocery bingo, trips to the beach, etc. They really do put a lot of effort into making everything fun and convenient while you are here.

My favorite part of the college program, though, has to be my actual job. There are many options to choose from if you decide to go through the program. You can be a lifeguard at one of Disney's water parks, work at the front desk of a Disney resort, sell merchandise in the parks, quick service food and beverage ... the list goes on. Personally, I think I've got the best job you can get on the college program.

Pocahontas in Disney World

I work in entertainment, which means I get pretty good work hours, more breaks than others. I'm one of the highest paid roles in the college program, and I know that the main reason guests even come to Disney world is to see my role as a Disney cast member. Imagine a little girl coming into the park for the first time, dressed head-to-toe just like her favorite Disney princess, then waiting in line for 45 minutes just to see that princess. And when she finally gets to see her, that little girl's eyes get so big, and she's practically speechless, and all she can manage to say is "You're my favorite princess." Or what about the little boy who has been at the parks for three days and still hasn't been able to find Pluto, and when he finally does, he gives that big yellow dog the longest hug you could ever imagine. That's what I get to be a part of here at Disney. Let me tell you, it truly is magical. I get to share the story of Disney characters with guests of all ages from all over the world.

If that sounds like something you're interested in, you have to go to an audition first (but don't worry, it's not that hard) before you get accepted into the college program. If anyone has any questions about the program, check out the website at www.wdwcollegeprogram.com or feel free to e-mail me at akoepke@simla.colostate.edu. I'm always willing to share my experiences! Be on the lookout for my next blog; it's time for Halloween parties, so I've got plenty more to say.