Happy Thursday! So far, I’ve written to you about my grown-up roles as camper coordinator and classroom teacher. Long before either of those were true, though, my most formative job in life was one I had from the ages of 19-21. In my counseling years, I taught riflery, crafts, and leadership, worked as a lifeguard and a janitor, and lived everywhere from Yakama to Tekawitha. What I learned in those summers made me a more confident and joyful adult. If you’re on the fence about a job at camp – or if you’re interested in knowing the superpowers of those who will care for your child this summer – read on!
Camp counselors are listeners
What sticks with me from staff training, even all these years later, is how firmly Alli and Marie emphasized this principle. I learned at Foley that the greatest gift that one person can give to another is her honest and complete attention. Camp counselors do this all the time. Freed from the distractions of news and technology, they tune in to what kids are saying about their latest achievements and next-level goals. They hear what makes their cabin laugh, perk up at the first signs of discomfort or worry, and tune in to the rumblings of a not-quite-restful rest period. Camp counselors go into the professional world knowing the value of eye contact and the importance of follow up. They’ll ask you to tell them more, and they’ll listen to the answer. You want these people in your corner.
Camp counselors are problem solvers
A lot goes right in a well-oiled machine like camp, but in any organization, things don’t always go to plan. Camp teaches staff to survey their circumstances, center their priorities, evaluate their options, and discern the best course of action. Foley leadership is immensely supportive to its staff, and counselors know that they can ask for help. At the same time, they also learn to determine when to come up with a solution in view of the needs of their class or cabin. Armed with great training and top-notch support, they are and become excellent decision makers.
Camp counselors are makers of sunshine
They wear goofy costumes, sing crazy songs, and boost your mood with a game or a riddle. A camp counselor’s greatest joy is to “shake up” a familiar activity with unexpected twists. They bring everyone in and make it difficult – if not impossible – to resist smiling around them. Out in the real world, you can spot a one-time camp counselor by his ability to make a dreary Tuesday feel like an upbeat Saturday. It’s no wonder that our campers want to be just like them.
Camp counselors are team players
This important work cannot be done alone. Camp counselors are trained to recognize that no job is too small and that many hands make light work. They chip in without being asked and look for opportunities to better their community. They support one another by carrying a little of someone else’s weight, knowing that the favor will soon be repaid without anyone keeping score.
All in all, working at camp is a life-changing and rewarding experience. Not only does it set kids up for success at camp, but it also equips counselors to thrive long-term, no matter what they do. I’m so grateful to have done it and recommend it wholeheartedly – best summer ever!