Hi, Ashley!
As a college student, you are likely accustomed to budgeting your money to make it go farther (I see my students mastering the art on a daily basis!). That sensibility will serve you well at Walt Disney World! If you are bunking with three other girls, consider the
Cabins at Fort Wilderness Campground. I like this idea for you because not only will you have space, but you'll also have a kitchenette - including a full-sized fridge - that will allow you to prepare many of your meals at "home," rather than dining out. One taxi ride to the grocery store when you arrive, and a stocked fridge will eliminate the need to go to restaurants for every meal, and you can splurge on the special ones.
Pin trading can be a fun an economical souvenir. Pick up a few pins and a cute lanyard, and start to trade with Cast Members and other pin trading fans. Not only are the pins reasonably priced, but you can pick your favorite character/s, or Park, or whatever "theme" you prefer. The possibilities are endless, and the process of trading is so much fun!
If you are willing to forgo visiting the Parks daily, you'll find tons of inexpensive and/or no-cost activities around all of the Resorts and property in general. August, in particular, means that the pools are going to be a source of great fun for you and your traveling party.
What else can I help you with? Please feel free to
send me specific questions about your stay, itinerary, etc., and I'll be glad to work further with you.
Until then --
See you later, celebrator,
-Deborah B.
PS Keep up the good work in school!!