Choosing The Right Camp: Counselors' Edition

Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!

There are so many services and websites devoted to helping parents find the right camp for their children. But where are the "advanced searches" for finding a counselor the right camp to work at? Sure, you can use those websites, and sometimes they work out, but what is the most important when finding the right camp for summer? And where do you start?

The first step is to ask yourself a few questions, to determine what you are looking for. These are the questions I think are important, in their order of importance.

First, determine your basics. Are you looking for a resident camp (sleep away) or a day camp? What are your available dates of employment? These answers will form what I call your absolutes. If you are looking for a resident camp that ends no later than August 15, any camp that does not fit these requirements is not a viable option. Another absolute may be location. If you are willing, or planning on traveling to camp, this may not be a factor. However, if you wish to work near where you live, that may be an absolute for you.

Second, look at the general program. Is it all girls, all boys, or coed? Is it an educational camp, an animal camp, a horse camp, a surf camp, etc.? This should just be broad ideas of the program, we'll get to specifics later. But you should think about what general type of camp you would like to be at.

Next, start to think specifics. So you want horseback riding, do you want western or english focussed? You were thinking waterfront, is it lake or ocean? Also, determine how set you are on these specifics. I'm looking for an outdoor focussed program, preferably with a hiking focus, but it's not a requirement. You may need to do some research and look at different camps to get an idea of what you want for this.

At this point, you should have a few narrowed down. Now it's time to start comparing. If you can, try to visit the camp. Look at details, such as programs that the camps offer, work schedule, pay, size of the camp, and so on. Some details may not matter to you as much as others.

If this is your first time working at camp, apply to several camps. You want to have options, and more than one possibility. Try to get to know they camp from a few perspectives. Start with research, look for online reviews, check the camps facebook page (if they have one), etc. If possible, try to get in contact with past counselors and staff from the camp. They have the most realistic view of the camp, and may provide valuable insight for you.

In summary, keep an open mind, but know what you want. Do your research, but remember that every experience is different. No camp is perfect, but you can find the right fit for you.

Happy searching!!
Samantha