So, What Did You Learn Last Summer?: A Case for Another Summer of Working at Camp

Now is a great time to think about all that you learned and practiced last summer. Did you have to have a plan each day to keep your campers engaged? Did you need to be flexible when dealing with a range of emotions and obstacles thrown your way? Did you react swiftly when your best-laid plans went awry?  Did you have to work with a co-counselor or other staff members to teach an activity or lead a group?

Is there anything you wish you had done but didn’t? Is there a responsibility that you could take on as a returner to polish some of the skills that will be necessary for your future jobs? Can you help mentor or coach new staff members? Are there opportunities for professional development and growth? A high-functioning camp will find a way to meet your needs if you are willing to put in the work.

Camp is also a place to learn about positive organizational culture. If a camp is doing it right, you will be celebrated for your hard work. You will also get to celebrate your friends or peers for their hard work. These team meetings can be empowering and transformational. The world needs more of this!

Read the article from American Camp Association’s Camp Connection Magazine.