Jellyrolls

This bar is worth a post. Jellyrolls, at the Boardwalk Resort in Disney, is a dueling piano bar. I've been to it twice so far with my roomates and it's a really fun time. For those of you unfamiliar with the piano bar concept, it plays out just as it seems. There are two pianos on stage and the musicians take all requests (most I should say, they tried Whip My Hair ... short-lived). The musicians have got mad talent and an extensive repertoire of modern music that keeps the environment lively all night. The drinks are a little pricey, but I can see myself going back a bunch more times. The only downside is the 21 and over age limit, sorry kiddos.

If you come to Disney (and you're over 21), I highly recommend a visit to this awesome nightlife spot on the Boardwalk in Disney World.

Giddy Up

So I got the official letter of acceptance to Oklahoma State University. This is really big news. Not only is it the first school to accept me, it is also the one school where I am guaranteed funding. For those of you unfamiliar with graduate school funding, it can amount to several forms of assistance:

1. Tuition waiver: tuition is covered up to a set credit load
2. Stipend: usually a monthly allotment of money (basically a "paycheck")
3. Other: most likely health insurance coverage

With the Oklahoma State deal, I am guaranteed at least a tuition waiver up to 9 credits for each of the fall/spring semesters and up to 6 credits for the summer. Hopefully I can match up with a well-funded professor who can send some more funds my way. If I can manage that, I will be able to earn a Master's degree without increasing the debt I have accrued along the way.

I'm still awaiting word from other schools, Oregon State in particular, but I am confident that Oklahoma State has the program and atmosphere necessary for me to succeed in graduate school and as a young professional. More news to come!

Bieber by the Poolside

Lifeguarding at the Polynesian and Grand Floridian Resorts gets redundant very quickly, just scanning water up and down all day long. Switching between 2 or 3 stands all day long looking at the same water ain't that glamorous. Throw a struggling kid or two in there for the day, it may be possible to keep the attention high. However, when there is not a person in the pool and the whole day consists of scanning (mostly) open water, a little music goes a long way.

At the resorts, there are cast members (Disney employees) whose job is "children's activities." They hang out all day playing trivia, hot potato, and other games by the poolside. They also put on some kid-friendly Disney tunes, including a hearty helping of Justin Bieber. Say what you want about the kid, his music, or whatever; his music makes a lifeguard's day go by quick. There is also a good bit of Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, and Glee soundtrack playing throughout the day. This may not be the coolest music to play when hanging out at home, but the upbeat nature of the music gives myself the attentiveness boost I need to keep up in order to be the wary lifeguard I need to be.

Chatting with other lifeguards is something that helps the day from dragging on a bit. However, when there are people in the pool, it is not the best idea to get lost in conversation with other guards. In these times, it is best to say things concisely. When there is not a soul in the water for hours on end, the conversation is welcome to keep the time rolling.

In all, the job is pretty basic, gives me a break from academia, and gives me a bit of cred with saving lives and all (right?).