She's Working Her Way Through College Poster

She's Working Her Way Through College 1952

★ 5.17 votes104 min📅 1952-07-09

"She's a Burlesque Queen who becomes a co-ed--and gives the Student Body a brand new twist!"

In the sparkling 1952 musical comedy classic *She's Working Her Way Through College*, sharpshooting burlesque star Virginia Mayo brings vibrant energy to the role of Angela Gardner, a performer with a past as dazzling as her costumes. Directed by H.

Director: H. Bruce Humberstone

Cast

Virginia Mayo
Virginia Mayo
Angela Gardner
Ronald Reagan
Ronald Reagan
John Palmer
Gene Nelson
Gene Nelson
Don Weston
Don DeFore
Don DeFore
Shep Slade
Phyllis Thaxter
Phyllis Thaxter
Helen Palmer
Patrice Wymore
Patrice Wymore
Ivy Williams
Roland Winters
Roland Winters
Fred Copeland
Raymond Greenleaf
Raymond Greenleaf
Dean Rogers
Ginger Crowley
Ginger Crowley
Lonnie
Julie Newmar
Julie Newmar
Julie

Frequently Asked Questions

What is She's Working Her Way Through College (1952) about?

This lively 1950s musical comedy follows Angela Gardner, a burlesque dancer who trades her feathered headdress for a college diploma. Posing as Hot Garters Gertie, she enrolls in drama school and joins the annual stage show—only to face sneaky conflicts when her past threatens to be revealed.

Who directed She's Working Her Way Through College?

H. Bruce Humberstone brought his knack for lighthearted storytelling to this gem, blending music and comedy with a deft touch.

Who stars in She's Working Her Way Through College?

The film features a charismatic cast led by Virginia Mayo and Ronald Reagan, with standout turns from Gene Nelson, Don DeFore, and Phyllis Thaxter.

Is She's Working Her Way Through College (1952) worth watching?

While not rated on IMDb, this crowd-pleasing comedy offers upbeat musical numbers and breezy humor that hold up beautifully. Fans of classic Hollywood charm will find plenty to enjoy in Mayo's spirited performance and the film's playful tone.

How long is She's Working Her Way Through College?

The runtime is 104 minutes, perfect for a nostalgic evening of 1950s entertainment.

🎥 Trailer

About She's Working Her Way Through College (1952) — A 1950s Musical Comedy with Virginia Mayo

In the sparkling 1952 musical comedy classic *She's Working Her Way Through College*, sharpshooting burlesque star Virginia Mayo brings vibrant energy to the role of Angela Gardner, a performer with a past as dazzling as her costumes. Directed by H. Bruce Humberstone, this lighthearted romp blends wit, music, and romance as Angela enrolls in college under her stage name—Hot Garters Gertie. Her secret theatrical history quickly collides with campus life when she enlists her drama professor's wife as a landlady. As Angela helps reinvigorate the school's annual stage show, tensions rise when her colorful past threatens to overshadow her academic ambitions.

With its breezy atmosphere and toe-tapping musical numbers, the film balances cheeky humor with heartfelt moments, making it a standout in the golden age of comedies. Mayo shines alongside Ronald Reagan and Gene Nelson, delivering a performance that's equal parts glamorous and endearing, while Humberstone's direction keeps the story moving with infectious charm.