1. If you are not a morning person, you better adjust quickly. Lots to be done means lots of early mornings. This may change once you are settled in, so don't be too alarmed.
2. Band aids. Boxes and boxed of band aids. I cannot tell you how many times I have walked to Walgreens in the last 2 weeks. Also, fellow lifeguard friends, new crocs are horrendous when they get wet. Put a little extra money in the preventative blister care so you won't end up spending your day off tending to your horrific blisters.
3. Make friends with people in your role and people at your location. It just makes everything a little less stressful when you have someone else who is going through the exact same struggle.
4. Call your parents. It just helps.
5. You don't HAVE to do everything those first few weeks. It's all so new and exciting but if you feel like that extra hour of sleep will help you have a better day at work tomorrow, do it. There will be plenty of time to see all 4 parks in one day and eat all the Mickey shaped food and your roommates will understand.
6. (Sort of an extension on #5) Know that if you decide to go to Magic Kingdom at night for a show or a parade, it is going to be a late night. Especially if you are taking the bus, it is an adventure. Take into consideration the travel time and the Orlando traffic around Disney World when it closes... But definitely do this once in a while because it's incredibly awesome.
7. Frozen dinners. At least while you are adjusting. It's all well and good if you are a great cook and feel like whipping up something after a long day. But I however am someone who will get so wrapped up in stress or time management that I will eat a handful of almonds for dinner. So, this has been my solution and it works beautifully.
8. Save. Money. Before. You. Come. I am SO glad I did. Unexpected things happen, like my 50 boxes of band aids. You will start getting paid but it isn't until after the first week (obviously gotta work before you get paid) and some places take out more money because the deposit didn't cover the full rent amount. And you can't say no to buying a Mickey bar the first time you go to Magic Kingdom, you just can't. Bring money.
9. Lifeguards... Ask lots of questions. If you are stuck on CPR or don't fully understand the in's and out's of your location, ask. They will help you. They know your job is important and the last thing they want is to put you up on stand not feeling confident in your job. The first day of Ellis training is intimidating, and training isn't easy. But you will pass if you are confident and you ask lots of questions.
10. Last but not least, everything will be okay. I am still new and have yet to see some more hard days, but I remind myself everyday how wonderful this opportunity is. Take some extra time to interract with a guest and create a magical moment if you are having a bad day, it puts it all into perspective.
That's all, I hope this is helpful and let's you know what I've been up to. Thanks for reading!
