All things considered... is it worth it?

My friend and I are really stuck on whether or not going to Cedar Point is a good idea for us. We live in New Mexico so right off the bat, the trip up there is not just a down the street kind of thing. hahaha but we want to have fun this summer and we're hoping it would be better than what we have here. We really wanted to make lots of money over the summer so that we could save up for the coming school semester. We both have jobs right now but our minimum wage is only $7.50. If we did go up there, I would be working as a ride host and my friend would be in games. So please help. With all the taxes, housing fees and expenses, do you think its worth it and will we make bank over the summer? haha.

Well coming from personal experience, I say yes! I'm originally from Florida, I know that's not quite as long of a drive as it would be for you, but even with the 17 hour drive to and from Florida, I still make a lot of money.
I am also in rides, and in rides we have a lot of opportunity to pick up extra hours. We may not get over time, but trust me you still make money. I have never lived in housing, but I know it's cheaper than not living in housing, and even considering that I make bank. lol
I know in games your friend will have less hours, I'm not entirely sure an average of hours though.

I totally think it's worth it. If you get there and you are worried about not enough money or hours, by all means, ask your supervisor for extra hour opportunities. As long as you aren't irresponsible with your money, it should be very easy to save money, especially considering we don't have a whole lot of time to spend it! haha

You're not the only one from New Mexico, actually! I know of someone from there.

This will be my second year and I'm coming from Colorado, so we don't have too much of a difference in distance from Ohio. There are a few of us from Colorado, actually. Not to mention Wyoming as well.

Also, you obviously can't make the trip from New Mexico to Ohio in one day. You'll have to stop for a night, or even two nights if you're not used to driving such long distances in one day. Since there are two of you, that saves money for your hotel expenses.

Are you both driving in one car? Or are you driving separately so you both have your own car while you're at CP? If you drive one car, that drastically saves money for the gas to get here.

The drive to CP is expensive... Not to mention, you have your housing deposit due when you process in, and money for expenses like food and what not for up to three weeks before payday. Your first paycheck, you will earn back every dollar (and then some!) for what you paid to get there. Just make sure you save some over the summer for the trip back. If you choose to come back next year, you have a nice tax refund that will probably completely cover the trip expenses.

And all of this IS worth it. There's no doubt in my mind. You'll have the greatest summer of your life!!!

I come from Michigan, so I only have to travel so far. But New Mexico is a long way. But if you save right, and don't spend a lot of money on things you don't need, then you'll be fine. I knew a few guys who came from Jamaica, and there are a lot of international employees also. SO if they can do it, you can :-)

Even if I lived half way across the world, I would still come back every year.

I am coming from New York and its a 5 hour drive not that bad of a drive but its worth it!!! And i actually worked with someone in games last season that was from new mexico!!

I'm not from anyplace far away, I'm about 45 minutes away and drive everyday...to let you know if it's worth it...this is my 9th straight year there.It's a lot of fun if you go into is positively and you'll want to come back or even want to start a career in the industry.

It's a one of a kind experience and can potentially be the best summer of your life if you go into it with an open mind and good work ethic.

I am from Florida, and this is my first year. I am so excited to start! I process in on May 2nd! 28 days! WOOT! Personally, I think it is worth it. My mom worked there for 3 years when she was going to Ohio State and she said she loved it. It was a great opportunity for her and she made lots of friends.

I'm also a first year from South Carolina. I will be in rides! It's Cedar Point so it will be a fun summer trust me and all these other people when we say it will be a summer experience not to miss!!