Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors and staff!
I hope everyone had a PHENOMENAL summer. I know I did!
Summer of 2015 was my second as an assistant director. I can't even begin to say how much I learned this summer. It was full of challenges and successes, and I am so proud of my staff. We really focus on having a growth mindset, and we believe in the philosophy of never "arriving", and always having something more to learn. I look forward to sharing more about this in it's own blog post.
I was honored to be offered a year-round job with the camp. I am now wrapping up my fourth week as the on-site director of our after school program. I've already gotten the opportunity to see more of the behind-the-scenes of camp. I also have the greatest sense of responsibility for the success or failure of this business that I ever have. It is amazing how much I didn't know about camp, and I can't wait to learn more!
Having graduated from college in May, I'm still in a little bit of shock over the changes in my life. For the first time since I was 5, I don't go to school. It feels so strange to go to work every day, and hold myself accountable to complete my work and be prepared, knowing that there isn't an exam. Am I homesick for college? Absolutely. I completely own the fact that I stalk my younger sorority sisters on all forms of social media. I am nearly constantly talking to my friends from school, all of whom have dispersed across the country. I remember having a similar feeling when I left home for college, and I know it's just an adjustment.
I'm excited to get back to blogging and share what I can about my experience. As always, I'd love to hear from anyone who reads my blog (that's you mom)!
Happy fall!
Sam
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Friday, April 10, 2015
Spring Leadership Conference 2015 (Before)
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors and staff!
I am so so so so so excited for the upcoming week! Why, you might ask?
I am so so so so so excited for the upcoming week! Why, you might ask?
SPRING LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2015!
Yes, it is that exciting. This will be the second year that I have gone, and I can't wait! Last year I learned so much, and got to know the other directors and assistant directors I would be working with in summer a lot better. There's a ton of really cool sessions about working with campers, training counselors, marketing camps, etc. And then at night there are different events, like a themed dance party and a lip sync.
I am really excited to go. I also get to spend a few days before it with one of the other assistant directors, who happens to be one of my best friends. It's going to be an amazing week, and I can't wait to tell you all about it!
I'll write an "after" post and tell you about the awesome experience I had!
That's all for this week, but stay tuned because I am so sure I'll have a ton to tell you.
HELLO PALM SPRINGS!
Sam
Thursday, April 2, 2015
It's Raining, It's Snowing...
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors and staff!
It's officially April! I hope you all made it through April Fools Day with a few laughs, and no injuries.
I live in Colorado, where the seasons are "more what you'd call guidelines, than actual rules" (I really like Pirates of the Caribbean). The past two weeks we have had beautiful, sunny, 70 degree weather. Today, it's snowing. A lot.
All of this snow has made me think about camp, and days with abnormal weather (or maybe it's normal, depending on what part of the country you're in). If you work winter camps, rain or snow is pretty likely. During the summer, however, you may not have plans for a rainy day. Having fun during a rainy day requires flexibility and creativity, and if you do it right, the day can be one that your campers never forget.
Before I list off my favorite rainy day activities, I need to share this little insight about me with all of you. I'm a planner. I am not always good with spontaneous. I plan nearly everything, including how I'm going to get dressed in the morning. Rainy days are not something I can plan for. I don't know when they'll happen, I don't know if it'll be cold or warm, I don't know if it'll be safe to be outside, I don't know how my campers will react. Making rainy days fun is a challenge for me. And while I can't have an exact plan, I can have some ideas in mind. So now I give you a few ideas.
It's officially April! I hope you all made it through April Fools Day with a few laughs, and no injuries.
I live in Colorado, where the seasons are "more what you'd call guidelines, than actual rules" (I really like Pirates of the Caribbean). The past two weeks we have had beautiful, sunny, 70 degree weather. Today, it's snowing. A lot.
All of this snow has made me think about camp, and days with abnormal weather (or maybe it's normal, depending on what part of the country you're in). If you work winter camps, rain or snow is pretty likely. During the summer, however, you may not have plans for a rainy day. Having fun during a rainy day requires flexibility and creativity, and if you do it right, the day can be one that your campers never forget.
Before I list off my favorite rainy day activities, I need to share this little insight about me with all of you. I'm a planner. I am not always good with spontaneous. I plan nearly everything, including how I'm going to get dressed in the morning. Rainy days are not something I can plan for. I don't know when they'll happen, I don't know if it'll be cold or warm, I don't know if it'll be safe to be outside, I don't know how my campers will react. Making rainy days fun is a challenge for me. And while I can't have an exact plan, I can have some ideas in mind. So now I give you a few ideas.
One more note before I share my list. Know your camps rain policy. Use common sense. If it's cold, get your campers somewhere warmer. If there's lightning, get somewhere safe. If your campers are scared, make helping them feel safe your priority. And know your campers. Some kids do not want to get soaking wet. Some kids love it. Make sure you pay attention to all of your campers, and keep the day fun for all of them.
RAIN DANCE
This might seem really obvious. And it kind of is. But it's also a lot of fun. If it looks like it's going to rain, do a rain dance with your campers. If they're into lip sync, choreograph the dance. Or, you can just dance around randomly and chant at the sky.
SINGING IN THE RAIN
Singing in the Rain is one of my favorite camp songs, and it rarely actually gets sung in the rain. But if you don't know it, you can just sing in the rain. Get creative, make up new verses of the song about rain!
RAIN HIKE
For this activity, it's really important to know your campers. Some campers will NOT like this. If they're young, you might get a lot of crying. As a camper, however, rain hikes were my favorite. We got to walk through the trees, and everything smelled different. We got muddy and wet, and after we got to have hot chocolate and laugh at each others wild hair. It was the best.
RAIN GAMES
Team relay races are tons of fun and a great way to bond. Why not use the rain to do it? Get a bucket. Find something that the campers can use to catch rain (sponges, cups, etc.). Make teams. The team with the most rain in the bucket wins!
RAIN SKITS
This can be a great option if you're staying inside. Split into groups and make up skits about the rain!
MERMAID TAIL DANCE
Okay, this was something my Girl Scout troop did when we were about 11. When we were stuck in our cabins, we would all sit on the top bunks with our sleeping bags on and over our legs. We would make up these dances that we would do with our imaginary mermaid tails and sing songs with it. It was always hilarious, and a great way to pass a lot of time.
MUD ART
This is great for after the rain has stopped. It's pretty simple, you just make art out of the mud! It can be drawings in the mud, mud sculptures, or mud body art! I'm a huge fan of mud, so I say, play in it as much as you can!
Rainy days are all about making a different kind of situation into an awesome, unique day. Be spontaneous, pay attention to your campers, and have fun!
Don't let it rain on your parade,
Samantha
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Explaining Skills Gained at Camp in the Real World
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors and staff!
I hope everyone is doing great, and starting to think about summer 2015! I know I am!
Sadly, most camp people don't get to stay here in the camp world forever. Many of us will eventually seek a "real world" job. Whether you're looking for your ultimate career, or a part-time job in college, you're going to have to interview for a non-camp job eventually.
If you've ever done an interview with someone who has worked at camp, you've probably had that excited, passionate conversation about your experiences and how much it meant to you. They know how hard you worked. They understand the level of responsibility that was put on your 18-ish year old shoulders. They respect the words "camp counselor" on a resume.
But we are usually not so lucky. Most interviewers haven't worked at a camp. Hopefully their image of a camp counselor is someone fun and responsible, and not what they got from a camp movie (camp movies are awesome, but yikes, their counselors give me nightmares). So how do you explain all of the valuable skills and experience that you gained at camp? How do you translate 200 rounds of "Hermie the Worm", 60 games of Chicken in the Hen House, and 3 human sundaes into applicable skills for a store manager, or website designer? It's all about language, how you choose to communicate your skills in an appropriate way for the situation.
So what skills did you gain as a counselor?
I hope everyone is doing great, and starting to think about summer 2015! I know I am!
Sadly, most camp people don't get to stay here in the camp world forever. Many of us will eventually seek a "real world" job. Whether you're looking for your ultimate career, or a part-time job in college, you're going to have to interview for a non-camp job eventually.
If you've ever done an interview with someone who has worked at camp, you've probably had that excited, passionate conversation about your experiences and how much it meant to you. They know how hard you worked. They understand the level of responsibility that was put on your 18-ish year old shoulders. They respect the words "camp counselor" on a resume.
But we are usually not so lucky. Most interviewers haven't worked at a camp. Hopefully their image of a camp counselor is someone fun and responsible, and not what they got from a camp movie (camp movies are awesome, but yikes, their counselors give me nightmares). So how do you explain all of the valuable skills and experience that you gained at camp? How do you translate 200 rounds of "Hermie the Worm", 60 games of Chicken in the Hen House, and 3 human sundaes into applicable skills for a store manager, or website designer? It's all about language, how you choose to communicate your skills in an appropriate way for the situation.
So what skills did you gain as a counselor?
Camp Language: I learned how to teach horseback riding/archery/games/etc to groups of campers.
Real World Language: I learned how to teach to a group with a variety of learning styles, and adapt my communication style appropriately.
Real World Language: I learned how to teach to a group with a variety of learning styles, and adapt my communication style appropriately.
Camp Language: I worked when I was sunburned/tired/had a blister.
Real World Language: I remained accountable to my fellow staff and campers by doing my job to my fullest ability, and did not let personal issues affect my work.
Camp Language: I learned how to work with other counselors.
Real World Language: I learned how to work in a team of unique personalities towards a common goal.
Camp Language: I learned how to work with a junior counselor
Real World Language: I gained experience as a mentor (and supervisor, if applicable) by helping a new camp leader build their skills.
Camp Language: I learned how to fix fights between campers.
Real World Language: I learned how to mediate disagreements and help both parties reach a mutual compramise.
Real World Language: I remained accountable to my fellow staff and campers by doing my job to my fullest ability, and did not let personal issues affect my work.
Camp Language: I learned how to work with other counselors.
Real World Language: I learned how to work in a team of unique personalities towards a common goal.
Camp Language: I learned how to work with a junior counselor
Real World Language: I gained experience as a mentor (and supervisor, if applicable) by helping a new camp leader build their skills.
Camp Language: I learned how to fix fights between campers.
Real World Language: I learned how to mediate disagreements and help both parties reach a mutual compramise.
And so on. It isn't about big words. It's about an honest, objective, and
professional description of what you can now do. What's important to remember is that everything you learned to do at camp is a skill you can use in your future career. Don't be afraid to explain just how much you learned, and how much value your time at camp added to you as a future employee.
Monday, January 26, 2015
Teen Leadership Programs
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors and staff!
Although it is only late January, camps and counselors are beginning to turn our thoughts to the summer of 2015. Many programs have already re-hired staff from last year, and hiring new staff will begin in the next couple of months. And with hiring staff comes hiring teenagers for leadership programs.
I had the opportunity to participate in several leadership programs, from the time I was 12 until 17. The programs I participate in gave me a ton of experience, taught me a million things, and gave me many memories. Whether your going to be a leader in training, counselor in training, junior counselor, or one of the many other things we call them, you're in for the experience of your life.
So what do I have to say about them? As I said, I participated in these programs. I also worked with teens in leadership programs as a counselor, and this past summer I had the opportunity to help my counselors work with their junior counselors. I think these programs matter. I think they prepare participants for jobs, teach them responsibility, and give them the opportunity to work towards goals and learn what it means to truly earn it.
The Application Process
This may well be the first job you've applied to. Whether it is or not, there is a great deal to be learned. Different programs handle the application process different ways. Often there includes a paper application and an interview.
Camps all have their own systems of training teen leaders. Some camps choose to train you along side the counselors, some will train you separately, and many camps choose a combination of the two. Something that can often be a challenge is that many camp training dates go over the last week or so of your school year. If this is the case, discuss it with the camp early, most camps are pretty flexible about it because they know most of their teen leaders will have the same conflict. Here's a few things I recommend thinking about during training.
It's finally here! You meet your first group/cabin/etc. and off you go! You're busy, you're having a great time, and you're simultaneously exhausted. Welcome to working at camp! Here's a few ways to make your summer count!
So there it is! That's my advice, and I encourage you to seek the advice of others who have done it. Being a teen leader was one of the most rewarding, challenging, and enlightening experiences I have done. Enjoy every second of it, because it really does go way to fast.
Happy Applying!
Sam
Although it is only late January, camps and counselors are beginning to turn our thoughts to the summer of 2015. Many programs have already re-hired staff from last year, and hiring new staff will begin in the next couple of months. And with hiring staff comes hiring teenagers for leadership programs.
I had the opportunity to participate in several leadership programs, from the time I was 12 until 17. The programs I participate in gave me a ton of experience, taught me a million things, and gave me many memories. Whether your going to be a leader in training, counselor in training, junior counselor, or one of the many other things we call them, you're in for the experience of your life.
So what do I have to say about them? As I said, I participated in these programs. I also worked with teens in leadership programs as a counselor, and this past summer I had the opportunity to help my counselors work with their junior counselors. I think these programs matter. I think they prepare participants for jobs, teach them responsibility, and give them the opportunity to work towards goals and learn what it means to truly earn it.
The Application Process
This may well be the first job you've applied to. Whether it is or not, there is a great deal to be learned. Different programs handle the application process different ways. Often there includes a paper application and an interview.
- Paper Application: First piece of advice: spell check! And check it again. It's awfully hard to be taken seriously when you use the wrong form of "your". Be thoughtful in your responses to questions, and be honest. We aren't looking for perfect teens, we are looking for honesty and a desire to learn.
- Interview: Some camps do group interviews, some do one-on-ones. I'll be writing a later blog about camp interviews, so stay tuned for more detailed thoughts. However, this is likely your first interview. There's a few basics you should know. The first is to breathe. They know you've probably never done this before, and they're not expecting perfection. Feel free to ask questions. Most camps will tell you what to wear, but if not, don't be afraid to ask. It's also okay to ask for a minute to think about your answer to a question. Represent yourself honestly. Don't be the person you think they are looking for, be who you are.
- Hold Your Breath: Now it's time to wait. Some programs are very selective, and some are not. Regardless, you will still feel nervous. If you are accepted to the program, congratulations! If not, ask what you could do differently in the future! Not only is this great information for you to know, but it also shows that you have a growth mindset and want to learn.
Camps all have their own systems of training teen leaders. Some camps choose to train you along side the counselors, some will train you separately, and many camps choose a combination of the two. Something that can often be a challenge is that many camp training dates go over the last week or so of your school year. If this is the case, discuss it with the camp early, most camps are pretty flexible about it because they know most of their teen leaders will have the same conflict. Here's a few things I recommend thinking about during training.
- Get To Know Each Other: This is something I think is so important for everyone at camp. Get to know the people you are going to work with. Something that is pretty universal is camp people are nice! Introduce yourself, and spend time getting to know as many people as possible.
- Listen Up!: Whether this is your first time at this camp, or you've been going for years, this is a whole new angle that you'll be looking at camp from. Training is full of awesome strategies and skills that you are going to want during the summer. I'm a big fan of taking notes, so don't feel weird about jotting down some things you want to remember.
- If You Are A "Lifer": If you don't know what a "lifer" is, it's someone who's been at this camp for their whole life. Even if this is your second or third year at this camp, this applies. Share your experience. What's really special is getting to hear about camp from the perspective of someone who was a camper, and loves camp. However, proceed with caution. Remember that as awesome as it is that you know this camp so well, you're new to the leadership side of camp, and you don't know about being on this side.
- Returners: These are teen leaders who have done the leadership program in the past. One of the great things about returners is that they become leaders amongst their group of teen leaders. You get to show through your actions how to do this. It's a lot of responsibility, and you should consciously be thinking about what your behavior is telling the new people.
It's finally here! You meet your first group/cabin/etc. and off you go! You're busy, you're having a great time, and you're simultaneously exhausted. Welcome to working at camp! Here's a few ways to make your summer count!
- Be Ready To Learn: One of the biggest lessons I learned as a teen leader was how little I really knew. The first day is probably going to kick your butt. But don't let that scare you! Learning new things takes time, and you'll be learning constantly. Ask your counselor questions. They might not know either! That means you get to learn together. Here's my analogy about new experiences. Trying new things and growing is like stretching. If it doesn't hurt a little bit, you're not getting anywhere. And when it comes time to talk about how your doing, try to hear it with an open attitude. It's meant to help you, not hurt your feelings.
- Be A Team: Be a team with whoever you work with! Fellow teens, counselors, directors, everyone! The best counselor/teen leader pairs are the ones who communicate with each other, and have pride in their work together.
- Give It Your All: Nothing is worth doing if you aren't going to do it 100%. Go into each day with renewed energy and a positive mindset. Take initiative. Seek feedback. Go to sleep exhausted, because you worked so hard.
- Most Importantly, It's Not About You Anymore: You know why camp is so awesome for campers? Because it's all about them. It's about getting them to join the group. It's about working to ensure they have a great time. It's about helping them form memories that will last a lifetime. Sometimes you're going to have to do things that aren't fun for you. Sometimes you're not going to want to do what you need to do. Remember, camp is about campers, and your focus is on them now.
So there it is! That's my advice, and I encourage you to seek the advice of others who have done it. Being a teen leader was one of the most rewarding, challenging, and enlightening experiences I have done. Enjoy every second of it, because it really does go way to fast.
Happy Applying!
Sam
Thursday, December 11, 2014
An Ode To My Job: How Lucky Am I?
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors and staff!
As we reach the middle of winter and I bury myself in layers, I can't help but think towards the coming summer. Certainly, I miss the warm weather. Undoubtedly, I miss not having to go to class every day. Indisputably, I miss not having to buy my own groceries (thanks mom).
But, there is something I miss more.
As we reach the middle of winter and I bury myself in layers, I can't help but think towards the coming summer. Certainly, I miss the warm weather. Undoubtedly, I miss not having to go to class every day. Indisputably, I miss not having to buy my own groceries (thanks mom).
But, there is something I miss more.
My Job.
I never thought I would be able to say something like that. I miss my job.
Here's the thing, I never imagined I could love doing something as much as I love my job as an assistant director. I never imagined I could love working somewhere as much as I love working at the camp I'm at. And I never imagined that I would miss it so much.
What's amazing to me is that it isn't just the easy, fun stuff I miss. Sure, dressing up for the Fourth of July is great (it's my favorite day of the summer). Of course, getting to work with some of my best friends makes every day entertaining. Yes, I love being a part of a team that becomes a family.
And those memories are wonderful. They shine bright in my mind, and take me back to warm sunny days filled with camp songs and wood chips. But there's something else I miss.
I miss the hard stuff. I miss working through the challenges, and the frustration when things aren't going as planned. I miss when my counselors would come to me with a question that I just didn't know how to answer.
Why? I have no idea. Maybe it's the culture of this amazing camp. Maybe it's because being there has taught me that it's okay not to know the answer. Maybe it's the bonding that happens over working through a problem with someone. Maybe it's because when things are hard, I know I have the opportunity to learn from some people that I regard as the most talented and brilliant childcare professionals out there.
I've had other jobs. I've had jobs that were hard. I've had jobs that were easy. I've had jobs that I loved, hated, and everything in between. I've missed jobs before. But never this entirely.
And so, this one is dedicated to my camp, the camp that I have grown to love in just two short years. I never thought that a job could mean so much to me, and at such a young age.
Thank You,
Samantha
Monday, December 8, 2014
Camp Isn't A Major... Or Is It?
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors and staff!
As many of you know, I'm currently in my senior year of college. When I decided that I would strive for a career in camp, I found myself in an interesting position. How do you prepare yourself for a career through higher education, when there is no undergraduate program in it? I will be graduating with a Bachelors of Science in Equine Science and a minor in Business Administration. Not exactly camp, but there could be some parallels. However, I've found several ways to supplement a higher education, and prepare myself for my career. Here are a few of my experiences.
Get Out Of The Classroom
Camp... Masters?!
So maybe you cant major in camp. But you certainly can make college work towards your own camp career. Just get creative! Also, I've linked the American Camp Association and Camp Administration and Leadership Programs at the end of this blog, so check them out!
As many of you know, I'm currently in my senior year of college. When I decided that I would strive for a career in camp, I found myself in an interesting position. How do you prepare yourself for a career through higher education, when there is no undergraduate program in it? I will be graduating with a Bachelors of Science in Equine Science and a minor in Business Administration. Not exactly camp, but there could be some parallels. However, I've found several ways to supplement a higher education, and prepare myself for my career. Here are a few of my experiences.
Elective Classes
Every major leaves room for at least a few elective classes. Make these count! A few of the classes that I've taken as electives are;
Introduction to Psychology
Adolescent Development
Abnormal Psychology
Child Exceptionality and Psychopathology
Methods in Coaching
Marketing Technology
Advertising
I felt that these were classes that would be applicable to my camp career, and I found all of them to be very fun, engaging classes.
Minor
You should be passionate about your major! You should love it and feel connected to it! And a minor is a great way to supplement your major with more information in another field. Camp is a business, and my business minor has given me a great introduction into business law, marketing, management, accounting and finance.
Get Out Of The Classroom
Gaining life experience is one of the most valuable parts of college! Are you interested in working in adventure based camps? Get involved in an outdoors club! Want more experience with different age groups? Find jobs babysitting, working in preschools or local after school programs!
Stay Connected With The ACA
Keep up-to-date with whats going on in the American Camp Association. I'm a huge fan of the message boards, they're a great place to discuss camp with others. Look through their articles, keep up with their blogs, and know whats going on in our awesome industry! Also, there are awesome online lectures and classes available to members, and college students get a free one year membership, so take advantage. And of course, go to Spring Leadership Conference!
Camp... Masters?!
I am currently in the process of applying for this awesome program! It's through Touro University, Nevada, and it's actually a masters program in camp. Officially the title is Masters in Camp Administration and Leadership. I will be updating you with my progress through the program, of course, assuming I am accepted (fingers crossed)!
So maybe you cant major in camp. But you certainly can make college work towards your own camp career. Just get creative! Also, I've linked the American Camp Association and Camp Administration and Leadership Programs at the end of this blog, so check them out!
Go State!
Sam
The American Camp Association:
http://www.acacamps.org/
Touro University, Nevada, Masters in Camp Administration and Leadership
http://tun.touro.edu/programs/college-of-health-and-human-services/camp-administration/
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Camp Fashion: A Counselors Wardrobe
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
I have been lucky enough to grow up in and be a part of a lot of different groups. I spent my school year as an actress, ice skater and cheerleader all through my childhood. Through those activities, and being an adolescent girl, I gained an appreciation for fashion. Of course the other part of my year was spent at camp, where people pride themselves on not caring what they look like, which is also awesome.
Right now I'm taking a class at my university about human adornment and behavior. It's basically discussing why we wear what we wear, or alter our bodies in any way (hair color, dieting, tanning, etc). It got me thinking a lot about camp. We do have fashion at camp. It's certainly different than I would dress in say, my weekly sorority meeting, but it has it's own trends.
Don't believe me? Are you thinking right now 'the magic of camp is that you can look like and wear whatever you want'? Imagine this scenario for a minute. It's the first day of camp. You're a long-time, teenage camper. This camp is your home. You've (wisely) shown up in old jean shorts, a tie-dyed camp shirt, and ratty tennis shoes. There is a girl in your cabin. She comes in wearing brand new True Religion shorts, a Ralph Lauren polo and boat shoes. Functionally, you are wearing the same things. She's not in a prom dress, or snow boots, and yet, it'd seem so strange to the long time camper.
So, believe me now? The real magic of camp is that she'll probably be your best friend, even though you initially may have judged her on appearances. That's the real special part of camp. And here is a secret a lot of people fail to understand about me; I'm a little bit of that girl. Yes, I wear old shorts and a t-shirt to camp, but I also do my hair and makeup before each day. Do I do them as much as I do before class? Absolutely not. But I always have a little eyeliner and mascara on, my hair is either braided or in a teased high ponytail or a sock bun (my favorite right-now hairstyle).
So back to our topic, what are trends at camp? There are some that seem to cross over all camps, and some that are unique at individual camps. Here are a few of my favorites, and by the way, they all look phenomenal with a sock bun.
I have been lucky enough to grow up in and be a part of a lot of different groups. I spent my school year as an actress, ice skater and cheerleader all through my childhood. Through those activities, and being an adolescent girl, I gained an appreciation for fashion. Of course the other part of my year was spent at camp, where people pride themselves on not caring what they look like, which is also awesome.
Right now I'm taking a class at my university about human adornment and behavior. It's basically discussing why we wear what we wear, or alter our bodies in any way (hair color, dieting, tanning, etc). It got me thinking a lot about camp. We do have fashion at camp. It's certainly different than I would dress in say, my weekly sorority meeting, but it has it's own trends.
Don't believe me? Are you thinking right now 'the magic of camp is that you can look like and wear whatever you want'? Imagine this scenario for a minute. It's the first day of camp. You're a long-time, teenage camper. This camp is your home. You've (wisely) shown up in old jean shorts, a tie-dyed camp shirt, and ratty tennis shoes. There is a girl in your cabin. She comes in wearing brand new True Religion shorts, a Ralph Lauren polo and boat shoes. Functionally, you are wearing the same things. She's not in a prom dress, or snow boots, and yet, it'd seem so strange to the long time camper.
So, believe me now? The real magic of camp is that she'll probably be your best friend, even though you initially may have judged her on appearances. That's the real special part of camp. And here is a secret a lot of people fail to understand about me; I'm a little bit of that girl. Yes, I wear old shorts and a t-shirt to camp, but I also do my hair and makeup before each day. Do I do them as much as I do before class? Absolutely not. But I always have a little eyeliner and mascara on, my hair is either braided or in a teased high ponytail or a sock bun (my favorite right-now hairstyle).
So back to our topic, what are trends at camp? There are some that seem to cross over all camps, and some that are unique at individual camps. Here are a few of my favorites, and by the way, they all look phenomenal with a sock bun.
Tie-Dye
There is no more universal, long standing camp trend than Tie-Dye.
Old Camp T-Shirts
Because what says "I've been here forever" better than a shirt from 2004?
Homemade Shirts
Puff paint, sharpies, spray paint.
Knee Socks
I like to mix and match, and I probably own 30 pairs. You never know what theme day they can go with
Chacos
I have to put them here, because I know counselors really like them. Real talk though, I have never (and will never) own a pair.
Norts/Soffees/Athletic Shorts
How many colors do you own?
Toms
This was a huge thing when I was the vaulting lead at my first camp. I wrecked a pair, and they smelled worse than anything I've ever experienced. They were well loved.
Nalgene Water Bottles
Or whatever your brand of choice is (whatever is cheapest at Walmart, I lose water bottles A LOT).
Hats
Baseball hats say: I like this sports team, I go to this school, or I drive this kind of car.
Straw hats say: I'm trying to avoid sunburning my nose off of my face this summer.
Cowboy hats say: I'm working at a ranch camp
Decorated Clip Boards
I'm a quotes/bedazzling fan, and I've seen a few really cool collages.
Dramatic Animal Shirts
I can't think of how to describe these, but you know what I'm talking about. They have wolves or running horses on a cloudy looking background, and they are FABULOUS.
Multiple Bracelets/Arm Accessories
Wearing so many silly bands, friendship bracelets and watches that your lower arm is six shades lighter than the rest of you.
So those are a few of my favorites. Comment below and tell me what you wear at your camp, or what your personal favorite camp fashion statements are!
Don't forget your Nalgene!
Samantha
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Summer 2014: The Life of a Camp Assistant Director
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
How I have missed you all! I hope you all had wonderful, adventurous, challenging, successful summers, whether you were a camp counselor, director, or an intern at an accounting firm. I personally had an incredible summer, and I can't wait to share my experience and new lessons with all of you!
So it really happened, I was an assistant director. I'm having a hard time writing this, because it was indescribable. I have never felt so many emotions in one summer. I felt proud, frustrated, energized, exhausted, overwhelmed, confident, and a million other feelings.
I started summer the day after I got home from school. I was the co-on-site director for the after-school program run by the same camp I work at over summer. It's held at a very different kind of school. It's a school that focuses greatly on the emotional safety of its students, calls the teachers by their first names, and gives the children the opportunity to dictate the majority of their curriculum. I wouldn't say I loved the schools philosophy, but I learned more from those students in three weeks than I had in my three summers past. It was intense. (Camping is in tents) There will be several posts in the future that originate from some of the lessons I learned there.
As soon as that ended (overlapping it's end, actually) camp training began. I put on my grey director polo, my name tag, and stood before about 75 staff members, mostly new, scared out of my mind. We ran games, led training sessions, and then it was the moment I was most nervous for. I met my small camp, at that point 5 (it would become 6 after the first camp session) senior counselors, all but one first timers. As we sat in the shady patch of grass, and I told them all about 7-9 year olds (our age group), I tried to imagine what the coming summer would be. Would they be close? Would they want to work there? Would they want to learn from me? Would I be able to help them?
Well I won't answer all of that right now, because that would give away the next few blogs I have planned. I will tell you this, it was nothing like I had imagined, and everything I could have hoped. Those six senior counselors, the rest of the staff, the other four assistant directors, the directors, the campers, it all added up to the best summer yet.
The summer was a blur, a blur that I can't wait to share with all of you. In the meantime, comment and tell me about how your summer went! I want to hear all about it. Also, best of luck for those of you that are currently in transition to the real world again. I know how hard it is, I'm starting my senior year of college and this world is so much different than my beloved camp world.
Try to adjust well,
Samantha
How I have missed you all! I hope you all had wonderful, adventurous, challenging, successful summers, whether you were a camp counselor, director, or an intern at an accounting firm. I personally had an incredible summer, and I can't wait to share my experience and new lessons with all of you!
So it really happened, I was an assistant director. I'm having a hard time writing this, because it was indescribable. I have never felt so many emotions in one summer. I felt proud, frustrated, energized, exhausted, overwhelmed, confident, and a million other feelings.
I started summer the day after I got home from school. I was the co-on-site director for the after-school program run by the same camp I work at over summer. It's held at a very different kind of school. It's a school that focuses greatly on the emotional safety of its students, calls the teachers by their first names, and gives the children the opportunity to dictate the majority of their curriculum. I wouldn't say I loved the schools philosophy, but I learned more from those students in three weeks than I had in my three summers past. It was intense. (Camping is in tents) There will be several posts in the future that originate from some of the lessons I learned there.
As soon as that ended (overlapping it's end, actually) camp training began. I put on my grey director polo, my name tag, and stood before about 75 staff members, mostly new, scared out of my mind. We ran games, led training sessions, and then it was the moment I was most nervous for. I met my small camp, at that point 5 (it would become 6 after the first camp session) senior counselors, all but one first timers. As we sat in the shady patch of grass, and I told them all about 7-9 year olds (our age group), I tried to imagine what the coming summer would be. Would they be close? Would they want to work there? Would they want to learn from me? Would I be able to help them?
Well I won't answer all of that right now, because that would give away the next few blogs I have planned. I will tell you this, it was nothing like I had imagined, and everything I could have hoped. Those six senior counselors, the rest of the staff, the other four assistant directors, the directors, the campers, it all added up to the best summer yet.
The summer was a blur, a blur that I can't wait to share with all of you. In the meantime, comment and tell me about how your summer went! I want to hear all about it. Also, best of luck for those of you that are currently in transition to the real world again. I know how hard it is, I'm starting my senior year of college and this world is so much different than my beloved camp world.
Try to adjust well,
Samantha
Thursday, April 17, 2014
Remembering What It Feels Like
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors and staff!!
As summer approaches, I've started really thinking about what my role is going to be at camp this year. I have been reading S'More Than Camp, by Scott Arizala, to get me in the right mindset. A lot of what he's been talking about has been "getting down to the campers level", physically, mentally, emotionally, and basically any other way possible. Of course, when I think of this, the first thing that comes to my mind is physically bending down to chat with campers. One of my favorite mental images of this is of one of the counselors I worked with last summer, who was 6'7". He basically had to lay on the ground to get on eye level.
A big part of getting on the level of my campers has always been trying to empathize with them. This is why I've always said I prefer older campers. I can totally understand the challenges that pre-teens and teenagers face. Don't like your body today? I've been there. Have a crush on someone who doesn't reciprocate? Oh, I so get that. Had an argument with your parents? I understand more that I can say.
I like to write in journals, and I love re-reading them. In a lot of ways, it helps me remember what it felt like to be 12, 15, 18, etc. I tend to think of myself as a fairly well-adjusted person, but it's important for me to remember that there were times I thought my problems were going to swallow me alive. It helps me remember that the thing I hated the most was when adults minimized my problems. Some of the phrases I specifically quoted in my journal as being particularly abhorrent are listed as follows:
As summer approaches, I've started really thinking about what my role is going to be at camp this year. I have been reading S'More Than Camp, by Scott Arizala, to get me in the right mindset. A lot of what he's been talking about has been "getting down to the campers level", physically, mentally, emotionally, and basically any other way possible. Of course, when I think of this, the first thing that comes to my mind is physically bending down to chat with campers. One of my favorite mental images of this is of one of the counselors I worked with last summer, who was 6'7". He basically had to lay on the ground to get on eye level.
A big part of getting on the level of my campers has always been trying to empathize with them. This is why I've always said I prefer older campers. I can totally understand the challenges that pre-teens and teenagers face. Don't like your body today? I've been there. Have a crush on someone who doesn't reciprocate? Oh, I so get that. Had an argument with your parents? I understand more that I can say.
I like to write in journals, and I love re-reading them. In a lot of ways, it helps me remember what it felt like to be 12, 15, 18, etc. I tend to think of myself as a fairly well-adjusted person, but it's important for me to remember that there were times I thought my problems were going to swallow me alive. It helps me remember that the thing I hated the most was when adults minimized my problems. Some of the phrases I specifically quoted in my journal as being particularly abhorrent are listed as follows:
- "Things seem like a bigger deal than they really are at your age"
- "It'll get better with time"
- "You don't even have real problems yet, just enjoy being young"
- "Ignore it/them/him/her, it'll stop"
- "I've been there/I understand/I know exactly how you feel"
That last one may seem sort of contradictory. Aren't I writing this blog on understanding how they feel? Yes. And part of that is understanding that at times, it feels like you are the only one who has ever felt this way. And it doesn't help to be told that your not, at least it didn't for me.
So how does empathy actually work? What can you say to show that you care, without assuming or brushing over some very real and powerful emotions?
The first strategy that has worked for me is simply to listen. Sometimes, they just need to say it and get it off their chest. I'm still like this. I don't always need advice, I sometimes just need to know that someone else knows I'm going through something.
Acknowledge that this is challenging for them. The first way to do this is to appreciate that it was likely hard for them to share it with you. Thank them for being honest and trusting you. Tell them that this situation sounds hard/challenging/upsetting/whatever they are feeling.
Don't pretend to know all of the answers. One of my favorite phrases is "I wish I knew the magic words to solve this for you". If it seems like they're looking to you for advice, suggest potential ideas to try, and acknowledge that they may not work, or at least not right away.
At camp this part can be hard, but try to really give them the time they need to feel like they were listened to and acknowledged. Sometimes this means you really have to make that space for them, but if a camper is coming forward to you with something, it's important you continue to earn their trust by actually hearing them.
When it's done, ask if they feel like your talk helped. They may say no, and that's okay. Sometimes it's not about helping, it's about finally getting the problem out of their head and sharing it. Remind them how much you appreciate their trust, and that you hope they'll keep coming to you if they need to talk again.
*A note about mandated reporting; if a camper begins to tell you about a situation which you feel will need to be reported, make sure you are not deceiving them. Don't promise to keep anything a secret, and don't ask questions that give them an answer. Let them tell you what they have to say and then follow your camps procedure for reporting.
Remembering how it felt to be at one age won't give you all the answers. What it will give you is the chance to connect with a camper, and maybe help a difficult situation.
I'm looking forward to this summer, and I so hope you are too!
Samantha
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Summer 2014: A New Journey
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
Last week, I got the call. The call I had been anticipating. The call I had been holding my breath for. The call I couldn't wait another minute for.
I am so excited! I can't express what an absolute honor it is to be given this opportunity. After three summers of being a counselor, I'm transcending the position and moving upward. I feel like my career is really starting. I feel like I'm on the road.
So I have a lot of feelings towards this.
Of course, the most obvious is that I'm incredibly excited. I can't wait to see camp from a new angle, get to try something new, and pass on some of the lessons I received from supervisors. I have had so many camp directors and supervisors, and I can't wait to put the good parts of each together to hopefully be the best I can be.
But I'm also TERRIFIED. What if I'm not good at this? This is supposed to be my career, and if I don't succeed or if I hate it, WHERE DOES THAT LEAVE ME? What if the counselors don't listen to me, because I'm young? I think I know how to have the confidence and authority to show that I know what I'm doing, but what if they just don't buy it?
This is also another turning of the page for me, and with that comes a level of sadness. I love being a counselor, and I will miss the one-on-one contact and connection I make with campers. I'll miss having inside jokes with my kids. I'll miss seeing them succeed everyday in a new way. I can't believe it, but I think it's really time for me to be done as a counselor.
So those are my emotions right now. Kind of a mixed bag of nuts.
Here's to 2014!
Samantha
Last week, I got the call. The call I had been anticipating. The call I had been holding my breath for. The call I couldn't wait another minute for.
This summer, I will be an assistant director at the day camp I worked at last summer!!!
I am so excited! I can't express what an absolute honor it is to be given this opportunity. After three summers of being a counselor, I'm transcending the position and moving upward. I feel like my career is really starting. I feel like I'm on the road.
So I have a lot of feelings towards this.
Of course, the most obvious is that I'm incredibly excited. I can't wait to see camp from a new angle, get to try something new, and pass on some of the lessons I received from supervisors. I have had so many camp directors and supervisors, and I can't wait to put the good parts of each together to hopefully be the best I can be.
But I'm also TERRIFIED. What if I'm not good at this? This is supposed to be my career, and if I don't succeed or if I hate it, WHERE DOES THAT LEAVE ME? What if the counselors don't listen to me, because I'm young? I think I know how to have the confidence and authority to show that I know what I'm doing, but what if they just don't buy it?
This is also another turning of the page for me, and with that comes a level of sadness. I love being a counselor, and I will miss the one-on-one contact and connection I make with campers. I'll miss having inside jokes with my kids. I'll miss seeing them succeed everyday in a new way. I can't believe it, but I think it's really time for me to be done as a counselor.
So those are my emotions right now. Kind of a mixed bag of nuts.
Here's to 2014!
Samantha
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Lessons I've Learned From Camp
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
Why does camp matter? Why does it seem to make such a huge impression on lives? Why do "camp people" think it's so important for kids to go to camp? Well I can't answer for everyone else, but for me, it all starts with the thousands of life lessons I learned at camp.
I've been going to camp for around fifteen years, and each year brings new lessons. Sometimes, I learn the same thing over and over again, and other times, one moment leaves an impression on the rest of my life.
I've split my list of things I've learned at camp into three sections, camper, teen leader, and staff. But the truth is, a lot of it overlaps. Sometimes I need to re-learn a lesson I got when I was 5.
Why does camp matter? Why does it seem to make such a huge impression on lives? Why do "camp people" think it's so important for kids to go to camp? Well I can't answer for everyone else, but for me, it all starts with the thousands of life lessons I learned at camp.
I've been going to camp for around fifteen years, and each year brings new lessons. Sometimes, I learn the same thing over and over again, and other times, one moment leaves an impression on the rest of my life.
I've split my list of things I've learned at camp into three sections, camper, teen leader, and staff. But the truth is, a lot of it overlaps. Sometimes I need to re-learn a lesson I got when I was 5.
Camper:
- Being yourself is cool
- Everybody wants and deserves a good friend
- There is nothing wrong with a little bit (or a lot) of dirt
- If you work hard to earn something, it feels a lot better than if it was just handed to you
- It's okay to lose and to fail
- Ask questions
- Keeping food in your duffle really does lead to rats peeing on your clothes
- Trying to look cool doesn't work. Eat your spaghetti with your hands
- The best of friends don't have to talk everyday, they just know they're there
- Don't make judgements based on others opinions, form your own
- You may not be the best at something. It's okay, and it doesn't make you a less valuable person
- Bran will stain white t-shirts, but its worth it to have the bran fight
- At camp, its goodnight, not goodbye
Teen Leadership:
- Being a leader means more than just being in charge
- Everyone likes a good bedtime story
- It's hard to give up being a camper
- Sleep > Shower
- Camp staff have drama. Getting involved is not fun
- Take pictures
- I do not work great with 7 year olds
- Sometimes, all someone needs is for you to listen
- Don't let the campers know you know how to french braid
- The people you work with can become your best friends
- Ice cream and laughter are universal. Share
Staff:
- Sometimes, campers are very wise
- Take time to get to know every camper that you can
- Cabin/Group secrets and inside jokes are the best (We may or may not have brownies, happy girls are the prettiest, FRED)
- When things don't go as planned, a sense of humor can usually save them
- Romantic relationships that start at camp are unlike any other
- Everyone likes Aaron Carter
- If you get to know them, its hard not to like every one of your campers
- Calling your campers "your kids" will confuse a lot of people
- Sometimes, all a person needs is a hug
- The best way to stay out of the bay on paddle boarding day is to get your campers stoked to push the other counselor in (sorry!)
- Spend enough time with other camp staff outside of camp that you see each other as adults. Have inside jokes
- Mornings are not functional without coffee
- Acrylic paint NEVER comes out of hair
- Homesick is a bad word, don't say it out loud
- Paint your body from head to toe, let the campers make you into a human sundae, roll around in the mud, and wear your duck dynasty pants to high ropes course.
- Summer goes fast every year
This is just a short list of the thousands of lessons I've learned at camp. I'd love to hear what else you've learned, so shoot me an email or comment and let me know!!
Always bring extra socks,
Samantha
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Things My Friends Don't Get
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
Now that summer has come to its inevitable end, we camp counselors have been thrown back into that mysterious place, known as the "real world". A place where singing songs about squirrels is not a normal way to start your day. A place where two different knee high socks, crazy hair, and a thrift shop vest outfit is not greeted with the response "you look awesome"! A place that cares about how you smell.
I have long tried to explain to my friends who are not counselors what the experience is like, sharing stories and even the occasional song, but so much is lost in translation. Why can't you get how funny my kids were, or how ridiculous the other counselor looked as a human sundae? Why don't you want to repeat when I say "this is a repeat song"? Why don't you get it?
I have comprised a list of things my friends don't understand about being a camp counselor. I hope you enjoy, laugh, and most of all, empathize. Lord knows they don't.
1. My job is hard. It is exhausting, challenging, and no two days are the same.
2. When you call me a "glorified babysitter", you set my insides on fire and I have to restrain myself from ripping your eyebrows out.
3. The things my campers say are downright hilarious, and you clearly just didn't get it.
4. No, I can't stop singing those songs. I've been singing them for three months straight, and they don't just get unstuck from my head.
5. It takes me time to adjust to being around adults again, sorry.
6. The other staff I worked with were the most fun, hilarious, exceptional and inspiring people I have ever known. Excuse me if I like to talk about them.
7. We also spent a disgusting amount of time together, so I have a lot of stories to tell.
8. My tan lines are weird, stop pointing it out. It takes dedication to paint stripes on your arms, wear them into the bay, and then realize that you have tiger stripe tan lines.
9. I may have lost some adult like social skills. I will try to learn again quickly.
10. I can cook ANYTHING on a campfire now, so allow me to share with you my skill.
11. If we go to Walmart, prepare for a long trip. I've realized the glory that is, and could spend my whole life there. DON'T RUSH ME.
12. If I'm trying to get a groups attention, I have about 50 ways to do it, and they are all highly effective. Just stand there and be impressed.
13. If I meet a kid, I will immediately turn back into being a counselor. Just watch and learn.
14. Don't compare my camp experience to your babysitting experience. You spent a few hours with a child while they did their homework, I was about 40 children's world this summer. And I had no TV to sit them in front of.
15. Yes, I make up great stories to tell kids. Yes, adults like them too. Yes, I tell them at parties.
16. It was the summer of my life. It was hard, I was tired, and I often smelled weird. But I also made best friends, learned so much, and created memories that will last the rest of my life. I will try to get you to do it next summer, and you really should.
You are amazing,
Samantha
Now that summer has come to its inevitable end, we camp counselors have been thrown back into that mysterious place, known as the "real world". A place where singing songs about squirrels is not a normal way to start your day. A place where two different knee high socks, crazy hair, and a thrift shop vest outfit is not greeted with the response "you look awesome"! A place that cares about how you smell.
I have long tried to explain to my friends who are not counselors what the experience is like, sharing stories and even the occasional song, but so much is lost in translation. Why can't you get how funny my kids were, or how ridiculous the other counselor looked as a human sundae? Why don't you want to repeat when I say "this is a repeat song"? Why don't you get it?
I have comprised a list of things my friends don't understand about being a camp counselor. I hope you enjoy, laugh, and most of all, empathize. Lord knows they don't.
1. My job is hard. It is exhausting, challenging, and no two days are the same.
2. When you call me a "glorified babysitter", you set my insides on fire and I have to restrain myself from ripping your eyebrows out.
3. The things my campers say are downright hilarious, and you clearly just didn't get it.
4. No, I can't stop singing those songs. I've been singing them for three months straight, and they don't just get unstuck from my head.
5. It takes me time to adjust to being around adults again, sorry.
6. The other staff I worked with were the most fun, hilarious, exceptional and inspiring people I have ever known. Excuse me if I like to talk about them.
7. We also spent a disgusting amount of time together, so I have a lot of stories to tell.
8. My tan lines are weird, stop pointing it out. It takes dedication to paint stripes on your arms, wear them into the bay, and then realize that you have tiger stripe tan lines.
9. I may have lost some adult like social skills. I will try to learn again quickly.
10. I can cook ANYTHING on a campfire now, so allow me to share with you my skill.
11. If we go to Walmart, prepare for a long trip. I've realized the glory that is, and could spend my whole life there. DON'T RUSH ME.
12. If I'm trying to get a groups attention, I have about 50 ways to do it, and they are all highly effective. Just stand there and be impressed.
13. If I meet a kid, I will immediately turn back into being a counselor. Just watch and learn.
14. Don't compare my camp experience to your babysitting experience. You spent a few hours with a child while they did their homework, I was about 40 children's world this summer. And I had no TV to sit them in front of.
15. Yes, I make up great stories to tell kids. Yes, adults like them too. Yes, I tell them at parties.
16. It was the summer of my life. It was hard, I was tired, and I often smelled weird. But I also made best friends, learned so much, and created memories that will last the rest of my life. I will try to get you to do it next summer, and you really should.
You are amazing,
Samantha
Up-Close and Personal: What a Summer
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
It has been nearly three months since I last wrote. But as I stated last summer, I get so swept up in the summer and camp and never write. Based on my views, I get the feeling that the very few of you who read my blog have a similar scenario, as the views go way down during the summer.
I had the most incredible summer! As I mentioned, I left my home, the camp I had been at for over a decade. I started a new adventure at a day camp, which was really scary and challenging for me. I was nervous, sad and torn at the beginning of the summer. Now, nine weeks of camp later, I couldn't feel more opposite. I found a new home and a new camp family, and learned more than I could have ever imagined.
I wrote a ton in my journal, and look forward to sharing my experience with you over the next few months. But I thought that I would give a very brief summary of my summer at a new camp, and the incredible experience that I had.
The summer started on the first day of training. I was still sad from my weekend at my old camp, and was slightly regretting my choice to lead. When I walked up to camp, the other staff were singing songs and doing "blitz" at the logs, where all of camp would start and end each day. The day of training was different then what I had experienced in the past. We played a lot of games, talked in small camps, and discussed logistics of our days. However, something was different. There was a different atmosphere. It was a lot of fun throughout the day, and I became instantly friends with several staff members.
I got to know the three other senior counselors in the small camp with me. We had the oldest campers, and had a very different program from the rest of camp. Our small camp was composed of four senior counselors, a rock climbing specialist, and a director. Throughout the summer, we became especially close. The number of inside jokes, stories and memories we share are countless, and I haven't ever felt so close to fellow staff members.
Camp days varied, and consisted of anything from rock climbing (on real rocks, not at a gym, which blew my mind), beach days, sailing, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking, high ropes courses and a hundred games of mafia. My campers were around 13 years old, and through the summer I had three groups. We bonded over challenge course, took a million pictures at photo scavenger hunts, and had a few water fights. Each group was at camp for three weeks, which gave us a chance to really bond and come together.
One of my favorite memories was from the second session of camp. It was the last day, and we were coming back from the beach. On the route, somehow we got into a competition of who could make the best fart noises. Everyone was laughing and being so silly, and it was truly one of those quintessential camp moments.
It was an amazing summer, full of so many lessons, memories and laughs, and I look forward to sharing pieces of what I learned with you over the coming off-season.
You are amazing!
Samantha
It has been nearly three months since I last wrote. But as I stated last summer, I get so swept up in the summer and camp and never write. Based on my views, I get the feeling that the very few of you who read my blog have a similar scenario, as the views go way down during the summer.
I had the most incredible summer! As I mentioned, I left my home, the camp I had been at for over a decade. I started a new adventure at a day camp, which was really scary and challenging for me. I was nervous, sad and torn at the beginning of the summer. Now, nine weeks of camp later, I couldn't feel more opposite. I found a new home and a new camp family, and learned more than I could have ever imagined.
I wrote a ton in my journal, and look forward to sharing my experience with you over the next few months. But I thought that I would give a very brief summary of my summer at a new camp, and the incredible experience that I had.
The summer started on the first day of training. I was still sad from my weekend at my old camp, and was slightly regretting my choice to lead. When I walked up to camp, the other staff were singing songs and doing "blitz" at the logs, where all of camp would start and end each day. The day of training was different then what I had experienced in the past. We played a lot of games, talked in small camps, and discussed logistics of our days. However, something was different. There was a different atmosphere. It was a lot of fun throughout the day, and I became instantly friends with several staff members.
I got to know the three other senior counselors in the small camp with me. We had the oldest campers, and had a very different program from the rest of camp. Our small camp was composed of four senior counselors, a rock climbing specialist, and a director. Throughout the summer, we became especially close. The number of inside jokes, stories and memories we share are countless, and I haven't ever felt so close to fellow staff members.
Camp days varied, and consisted of anything from rock climbing (on real rocks, not at a gym, which blew my mind), beach days, sailing, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking, high ropes courses and a hundred games of mafia. My campers were around 13 years old, and through the summer I had three groups. We bonded over challenge course, took a million pictures at photo scavenger hunts, and had a few water fights. Each group was at camp for three weeks, which gave us a chance to really bond and come together.
One of my favorite memories was from the second session of camp. It was the last day, and we were coming back from the beach. On the route, somehow we got into a competition of who could make the best fart noises. Everyone was laughing and being so silly, and it was truly one of those quintessential camp moments.
It was an amazing summer, full of so many lessons, memories and laughs, and I look forward to sharing pieces of what I learned with you over the coming off-season.
You are amazing!
Samantha
Monday, June 3, 2013
Avoiding Staff Cliques
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
As camps around the country begin their staff training weeks, so many will begin fighting the constant battle of staff cliques.
The word clique is certainly weighted. It brings about memories of high school and the movie Mean Girls. But what is a clique? And is it always a bad thing?
In my mind, cliques are a sort of extreme situation. As people, we tend to form groups with people we relate with and like. But that's not the problem. Camp staffs will always have friend groups within them, and that is not necessarily a problem. It becomes a clique when it becomes exclusive, and the group seems sort of shut off from the rest of the staff.
Cliques may only hang out with each other. They don't make others feel welcome when they're around, and they create an overall negative energy at camp. It can be easy to see a clique from the outside, but when you're in one, its a challenge to realize it. It's even harder to reverse the problem, so its best to be proactive, rather than reactive.
One of the best ways to prevent cliques as a staff member starts in the very beginning. As a staff member, you can combat staff cliques forming by getting to know as many new staff as possible. It's easy to meet a few friends and feel comfortable and content with the first few people you meet and like, but it's important to continue to branch out. Most of my best friends that I have met on staff were not in the first few people I met.
As the summer progresses, all staff find certain groups of friends who they like better than others. In order to keep from becoming a clique, one of my favorite things to do was invite different groups of people home with me for our night off. My very best friend at camp last summer always had the same night off as me, and she always came home with me. However, we would always check the night of schedule, and invite a few other staff members home, especially ones we didn't really know. It's a great way to bond outside of camp, and keep friend groups from becoming exclusive.
Just remember, the more friends you have at camp, the better your summer will be! An exclusive group within the staff just brings everyone down and alienates people. Meet new people, make new friends, and have a great summer!
You are amazing!
Samantha
As camps around the country begin their staff training weeks, so many will begin fighting the constant battle of staff cliques.
The word clique is certainly weighted. It brings about memories of high school and the movie Mean Girls. But what is a clique? And is it always a bad thing?
In my mind, cliques are a sort of extreme situation. As people, we tend to form groups with people we relate with and like. But that's not the problem. Camp staffs will always have friend groups within them, and that is not necessarily a problem. It becomes a clique when it becomes exclusive, and the group seems sort of shut off from the rest of the staff.
Cliques may only hang out with each other. They don't make others feel welcome when they're around, and they create an overall negative energy at camp. It can be easy to see a clique from the outside, but when you're in one, its a challenge to realize it. It's even harder to reverse the problem, so its best to be proactive, rather than reactive.
One of the best ways to prevent cliques as a staff member starts in the very beginning. As a staff member, you can combat staff cliques forming by getting to know as many new staff as possible. It's easy to meet a few friends and feel comfortable and content with the first few people you meet and like, but it's important to continue to branch out. Most of my best friends that I have met on staff were not in the first few people I met.
As the summer progresses, all staff find certain groups of friends who they like better than others. In order to keep from becoming a clique, one of my favorite things to do was invite different groups of people home with me for our night off. My very best friend at camp last summer always had the same night off as me, and she always came home with me. However, we would always check the night of schedule, and invite a few other staff members home, especially ones we didn't really know. It's a great way to bond outside of camp, and keep friend groups from becoming exclusive.
Just remember, the more friends you have at camp, the better your summer will be! An exclusive group within the staff just brings everyone down and alienates people. Meet new people, make new friends, and have a great summer!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Up Close and Personal: A New Adventure
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
Yesterday, I received a very exciting phone call! I have officially been hired to work at a day camp this summer as a counselor! WOOHOO!!
Some of you may have noticed that this is awfully late to be just being hired. Because I go to school out of state, I couldn't do the group interview until I actually got home last week. Two days later, I had an individual interview, and yesterday I got the very anticipated phone call.
I could not be more excited, and this could not have happened at a better time. I worked this last weekend at the camp that I have been at for twelve years, since I was a camper. I occasionally get the opportunity to work on program staff for a weekend when we host girl scout troops or school groups. However, this weekend proved different. At the end of the weekend, we had a staff meeting. The main subject of the meeting was summer, and the arriving counselors, and the coming weeks of training. At that moment, I felt so removed from the camp, and it was really hard. It really sunk in, I'm not coming back this year.
So I spent the next 48 hours sulking and feeling sad, and then I got the phone call. It didn't take away the sadness, and I still certainly feel torn, but it gave me something exciting to look forward to. It gave me something new to think on, to worry about, to plan for.
So what am I worried about? Well, first, I have to get a Class B drivers license, because counselors are also responsible for picking up and dropping campers each day of camp in a van. WOOHOO I could be a truck driver, if this whole camp professional plan doesn't work out. I'm not worried that much about the test and learning to drive the vans, as much as I'm just worried I'll forget a step in the process. YIKES.
I'm also worried about an entirely new staff. I haven't been new at camp as a counselor, ever. And I know it'll be a valuable experience, and I'm sure I'll learn a lot, but it still makes me weary. What if I don't get along with them? What if I don't fit in?
Finally, I'm worried about a program that I don't know that well. The resident camp I have been a part of has a very regimented schedule. Campers are going from wake up call to lights out, and there is only about an hour of free time, if that. The day camps program is much more up to the counselors, with just a few set items each day. It's at a park, so the activities are based on the counselors creativity and ideas.
But I'm so excited. I can't wait to learn about how day camp works from the staff side. I went to MANY day camps as a kid, but haven't been a part of one in about four years. I'm excited to meet the staff, which is over three times the size of the staff at my previous camp. I am looking forward to meeting new campers, and hopefully making a positive impact. I'm excited to create days based around what my campers want to do, and be able to use my creativity in a way I haven't in the past.
It's a lot of emotions, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels like this. So if you're getting ready to head to camp, whether it's your first time or your hundredth time, let me know how you are feeling.
Let me know!!
Samantha
Yesterday, I received a very exciting phone call! I have officially been hired to work at a day camp this summer as a counselor! WOOHOO!!
Some of you may have noticed that this is awfully late to be just being hired. Because I go to school out of state, I couldn't do the group interview until I actually got home last week. Two days later, I had an individual interview, and yesterday I got the very anticipated phone call.
I could not be more excited, and this could not have happened at a better time. I worked this last weekend at the camp that I have been at for twelve years, since I was a camper. I occasionally get the opportunity to work on program staff for a weekend when we host girl scout troops or school groups. However, this weekend proved different. At the end of the weekend, we had a staff meeting. The main subject of the meeting was summer, and the arriving counselors, and the coming weeks of training. At that moment, I felt so removed from the camp, and it was really hard. It really sunk in, I'm not coming back this year.
So I spent the next 48 hours sulking and feeling sad, and then I got the phone call. It didn't take away the sadness, and I still certainly feel torn, but it gave me something exciting to look forward to. It gave me something new to think on, to worry about, to plan for.
So what am I worried about? Well, first, I have to get a Class B drivers license, because counselors are also responsible for picking up and dropping campers each day of camp in a van. WOOHOO I could be a truck driver, if this whole camp professional plan doesn't work out. I'm not worried that much about the test and learning to drive the vans, as much as I'm just worried I'll forget a step in the process. YIKES.
I'm also worried about an entirely new staff. I haven't been new at camp as a counselor, ever. And I know it'll be a valuable experience, and I'm sure I'll learn a lot, but it still makes me weary. What if I don't get along with them? What if I don't fit in?
Finally, I'm worried about a program that I don't know that well. The resident camp I have been a part of has a very regimented schedule. Campers are going from wake up call to lights out, and there is only about an hour of free time, if that. The day camps program is much more up to the counselors, with just a few set items each day. It's at a park, so the activities are based on the counselors creativity and ideas.
But I'm so excited. I can't wait to learn about how day camp works from the staff side. I went to MANY day camps as a kid, but haven't been a part of one in about four years. I'm excited to meet the staff, which is over three times the size of the staff at my previous camp. I am looking forward to meeting new campers, and hopefully making a positive impact. I'm excited to create days based around what my campers want to do, and be able to use my creativity in a way I haven't in the past.
It's a lot of emotions, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels like this. So if you're getting ready to head to camp, whether it's your first time or your hundredth time, let me know how you are feeling.
Let me know!!
Samantha
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
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
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
Monday, April 22, 2013
Things I Didn't Expect
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
Through my time at camp, I've learned a great deal. However, over my two years as a counselor, I reached many challenges and experiences that I simply didn't see coming. In some cases I was warned, and didn't understand or grasp what I was being told. In other cases, what surprised me was either unique to my situation, or not explained. Either way, I was able to grow and learn from every new obstacle.
If you are a new counselor this summer, you may experience some of these, you may also not. You will experience something not on my list, because of course, every situation is different.
1. It really is hard
I know I was explained this a hundred times. I was told that it would be one of the hardest things I would do, and sometimes I would really not want to. There were days when I did not want to wake up campers, get out of bed, and go clean stalls. I didn't want to put on jeans when it was a hundred degrees. I didn't want to explain the rules of the riding arena for the thirtieth time that summer. I wanted to go home, get in my bed, and not work.
2. I could feel different ways about one staff member
This is worded kind of weirdly. In my personal life, there were several staff members who I loved. We had so much fun, they made me laugh, and I really enjoyed being their friend. At camp, I could not stand them. Something about how they worked, whether that be work ethic or their method with campers, disagreed with me. And that proved to be a real struggle, how to like and dislike someone at the same time.
3. I became alienated from my non-camp friends
I couldn't see them. They didn't understand why I was always tired when I was able to. My summer stories were less about the beach and parties and more about campfire songs and shorts tans. We weren't able to relate as easily. It went away over time, and I think we all had to adjust, and I found out who my real friends were. But it was hard.
4. I learned everyones names really quickly
I am so bad at names. And yet somehow, I knew everyone on our staff (about 40 of us) within four days. I don't know how it happened, I don't think I was actively trying to remember names, it somehow just fell into place. I'm sure our management had something to do with this... some secret strategy :)
5. My friends could also be my role models
This began to really happen my second summer, when three of my close friends were also head counselors. One of them was also my supervisor of sorts in the program area I led. It was a dynamic I hadn't really experienced before. I also looked up to other counselors who were my friends. It had challenges, but surprisingly, more benefits.
6. The summer always went by fast
It was training week, and then it was the last campfire. I was saying hello, and then I was sobbing goodbye. At the beginning, eleven weeks seemed so long, but it was gone in a blink of the eye.
7. My second summer was harder (socially) than my first
Again, my situation is highly different than others. But my first summer, despite being tumultuous for the staff as a whole, I had many close friends, great instant connections, even a boyfriend on staff. My second summer I felt withdrawn from the group as whole. I felt in between, not new, but not a head counselor, like most of the returning staff I was close with. Even though I was more comfortable in my role, it took me more time to make connections, and I don't think I made as many deep ones as my first summer.
8. There was nothing "magical" about my first summer
As I said, as a staff, we had a rough summer in 2011. We didn't necessarily "vibe" all that well, and it was quite a struggle. I think I came in with this idea that it would be this great experience with wonderful people and awesome cabins, and I would learn and grow and everything would be perfect. And while it was a great experience, and I did learn and grow, it was also really challenging, and there were many tough moments. I was stressed, confused, tired, and a million other emotions I never expected. However, I did it again, so what does that tell you? It was, on the whole, a great experience.
9. I liked some cabins more than others, and not for the reasons I expected
This really came into play my second summer, when I was given the opportunity to work with the age group I enjoy most, 13-15 year old girls. Although each week my campers were about the same age, there were some cabins I just worked better with. And it wasn't the best behaved cabins or the easiest, it was a personality and spirit that matched mine. I always thought I would love the cabins that went to bed when I asked, and were easy to wake up in the morning. And while I appreciate those things, GREATLY, some of my favorite cabins were more difficult.
10. I missed all of it
I miss every second of camp during the year. I miss dragging myself to breakfast in a zebra onesie and not brushing my hair. I miss standing in a dusty riding arena yelling "on the count of strawberry, we are going to do a circle!" I miss slumping up the hill to my program area, dragging my feet and dreading having to pull our vaulting horse out of her stall. I miss the staff, even sometimes the ones I didn't love. I miss singing songs at flag pole, even when it was 7:20 AM and I was half asleep. I miss being covered in food at kangaroo court, or making a fool of myself at campfire. I miss tuck-ins and bed time stories. I miss crying at the end of each week, knowing that that group of people would never be all together again. Mostly, I miss every camper, the loud ones, the quiet ones, the weird ones, the funny ones, the ones who are learning about themselves, the ones who think they know everything, every single one.
I hope you enjoyed it, and I would love to hear what surprised you.
You are amazing,
Samantha
Through my time at camp, I've learned a great deal. However, over my two years as a counselor, I reached many challenges and experiences that I simply didn't see coming. In some cases I was warned, and didn't understand or grasp what I was being told. In other cases, what surprised me was either unique to my situation, or not explained. Either way, I was able to grow and learn from every new obstacle.
If you are a new counselor this summer, you may experience some of these, you may also not. You will experience something not on my list, because of course, every situation is different.
1. It really is hard
I know I was explained this a hundred times. I was told that it would be one of the hardest things I would do, and sometimes I would really not want to. There were days when I did not want to wake up campers, get out of bed, and go clean stalls. I didn't want to put on jeans when it was a hundred degrees. I didn't want to explain the rules of the riding arena for the thirtieth time that summer. I wanted to go home, get in my bed, and not work.
2. I could feel different ways about one staff member
This is worded kind of weirdly. In my personal life, there were several staff members who I loved. We had so much fun, they made me laugh, and I really enjoyed being their friend. At camp, I could not stand them. Something about how they worked, whether that be work ethic or their method with campers, disagreed with me. And that proved to be a real struggle, how to like and dislike someone at the same time.
3. I became alienated from my non-camp friends
I couldn't see them. They didn't understand why I was always tired when I was able to. My summer stories were less about the beach and parties and more about campfire songs and shorts tans. We weren't able to relate as easily. It went away over time, and I think we all had to adjust, and I found out who my real friends were. But it was hard.
4. I learned everyones names really quickly
I am so bad at names. And yet somehow, I knew everyone on our staff (about 40 of us) within four days. I don't know how it happened, I don't think I was actively trying to remember names, it somehow just fell into place. I'm sure our management had something to do with this... some secret strategy :)
5. My friends could also be my role models
This began to really happen my second summer, when three of my close friends were also head counselors. One of them was also my supervisor of sorts in the program area I led. It was a dynamic I hadn't really experienced before. I also looked up to other counselors who were my friends. It had challenges, but surprisingly, more benefits.
6. The summer always went by fast
It was training week, and then it was the last campfire. I was saying hello, and then I was sobbing goodbye. At the beginning, eleven weeks seemed so long, but it was gone in a blink of the eye.
7. My second summer was harder (socially) than my first
Again, my situation is highly different than others. But my first summer, despite being tumultuous for the staff as a whole, I had many close friends, great instant connections, even a boyfriend on staff. My second summer I felt withdrawn from the group as whole. I felt in between, not new, but not a head counselor, like most of the returning staff I was close with. Even though I was more comfortable in my role, it took me more time to make connections, and I don't think I made as many deep ones as my first summer.
8. There was nothing "magical" about my first summer
As I said, as a staff, we had a rough summer in 2011. We didn't necessarily "vibe" all that well, and it was quite a struggle. I think I came in with this idea that it would be this great experience with wonderful people and awesome cabins, and I would learn and grow and everything would be perfect. And while it was a great experience, and I did learn and grow, it was also really challenging, and there were many tough moments. I was stressed, confused, tired, and a million other emotions I never expected. However, I did it again, so what does that tell you? It was, on the whole, a great experience.
9. I liked some cabins more than others, and not for the reasons I expected
This really came into play my second summer, when I was given the opportunity to work with the age group I enjoy most, 13-15 year old girls. Although each week my campers were about the same age, there were some cabins I just worked better with. And it wasn't the best behaved cabins or the easiest, it was a personality and spirit that matched mine. I always thought I would love the cabins that went to bed when I asked, and were easy to wake up in the morning. And while I appreciate those things, GREATLY, some of my favorite cabins were more difficult.
10. I missed all of it
I miss every second of camp during the year. I miss dragging myself to breakfast in a zebra onesie and not brushing my hair. I miss standing in a dusty riding arena yelling "on the count of strawberry, we are going to do a circle!" I miss slumping up the hill to my program area, dragging my feet and dreading having to pull our vaulting horse out of her stall. I miss the staff, even sometimes the ones I didn't love. I miss singing songs at flag pole, even when it was 7:20 AM and I was half asleep. I miss being covered in food at kangaroo court, or making a fool of myself at campfire. I miss tuck-ins and bed time stories. I miss crying at the end of each week, knowing that that group of people would never be all together again. Mostly, I miss every camper, the loud ones, the quiet ones, the weird ones, the funny ones, the ones who are learning about themselves, the ones who think they know everything, every single one.
I hope you enjoyed it, and I would love to hear what surprised you.
You are amazing,
Samantha
Monday, March 11, 2013
What To Expect: 13-15 Year Olds
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
I hope you are all enjoying yourselves, it's been snowing here, and I can't wait for this summer. I've been very busy applying to day camps, and am so excited for my new adventure.
Occasionally, I'll do "What To Expect" posts. These will usually be age specific, but maybe if I come across some other demographic that seems unique I'll talk about those too! Let me know if you have any suggestions!
I typically work with some of our oldest campers, the 13-15 year olds. While some camps do have older campers, typically 15 or 16 is the oldest before they do some sort of leadership program. I absolutely love this age group. I'm biased towards them, so I'm writing about them first. As a side note, as a female counselor, I have female campers. The camp I work at has very few boys, and even fewer older boys. If anyone has experience working with older male campers, I would love to hear about it! However, for the most part, this post will relate to female campers.
The first thing to realize about the older campers is that they are all different. While there are some generalizations that can be made, two girls that are the same age can be so far apart in physical, emotional and cognitive development that they seem years apart. This happens especially with the 13 year olds. You may have campers who look and act extremely mature, and others who seem very young. And this can be a hard gap to bridge. But part of the beauty of camp is that it is a place where kids can really be kids. Encourage your campers to be silly and have fun. Laughing is universal, and it doesn't matter how old we look or feel, it brings people together.
It's not uncommon for teenage girls to want to be older and more mature then they are. They may come with a "too cool" attitude, but if you have fun being silly, you might just encourage them to do the same. With that being said, understand that there is a time and place. Show them that you can let loose and have a good time, and still be serious later. This can help show them that they too can be both. Girls at this age can be in a hurry to grow up, and camp can be a great way to help them enjoy being a kid.
The most common problem experienced with this age group is drama. Yes, they can be mean. Yes, they all want to be cool. Yes, it can make camp very difficult. But this can be avoided. One of my favorite things about this age group is that they are reasonable. Usually, they can be talked to, and you can get to the bottom of the drama. Can you force two girls to become best friends? No, but you could get them to see from each others perspectives and get along for the week.
As I said, this age group is my favorite. That is because they all have their own personalities, and that makes them hillarious. They're still figuring out who they are, and they usually end up loving camp. They love to laugh, make new friends, and start to be leaders at camp. There is nothing better then watching a camper grow up at camp, and see them become a positive roll model. The oldest campers are also usually the most passionate about camp, because many of them have been going for so long. They know just how great camp is, and love it more than they often let on.
Not to mention, they go all out for dress up stuff, and love to rock crazy hair and makeup.
Let me know what you think!
You are amazing!
Samantha
I hope you are all enjoying yourselves, it's been snowing here, and I can't wait for this summer. I've been very busy applying to day camps, and am so excited for my new adventure.
Occasionally, I'll do "What To Expect" posts. These will usually be age specific, but maybe if I come across some other demographic that seems unique I'll talk about those too! Let me know if you have any suggestions!
I typically work with some of our oldest campers, the 13-15 year olds. While some camps do have older campers, typically 15 or 16 is the oldest before they do some sort of leadership program. I absolutely love this age group. I'm biased towards them, so I'm writing about them first. As a side note, as a female counselor, I have female campers. The camp I work at has very few boys, and even fewer older boys. If anyone has experience working with older male campers, I would love to hear about it! However, for the most part, this post will relate to female campers.
The first thing to realize about the older campers is that they are all different. While there are some generalizations that can be made, two girls that are the same age can be so far apart in physical, emotional and cognitive development that they seem years apart. This happens especially with the 13 year olds. You may have campers who look and act extremely mature, and others who seem very young. And this can be a hard gap to bridge. But part of the beauty of camp is that it is a place where kids can really be kids. Encourage your campers to be silly and have fun. Laughing is universal, and it doesn't matter how old we look or feel, it brings people together.
It's not uncommon for teenage girls to want to be older and more mature then they are. They may come with a "too cool" attitude, but if you have fun being silly, you might just encourage them to do the same. With that being said, understand that there is a time and place. Show them that you can let loose and have a good time, and still be serious later. This can help show them that they too can be both. Girls at this age can be in a hurry to grow up, and camp can be a great way to help them enjoy being a kid.
The most common problem experienced with this age group is drama. Yes, they can be mean. Yes, they all want to be cool. Yes, it can make camp very difficult. But this can be avoided. One of my favorite things about this age group is that they are reasonable. Usually, they can be talked to, and you can get to the bottom of the drama. Can you force two girls to become best friends? No, but you could get them to see from each others perspectives and get along for the week.
As I said, this age group is my favorite. That is because they all have their own personalities, and that makes them hillarious. They're still figuring out who they are, and they usually end up loving camp. They love to laugh, make new friends, and start to be leaders at camp. There is nothing better then watching a camper grow up at camp, and see them become a positive roll model. The oldest campers are also usually the most passionate about camp, because many of them have been going for so long. They know just how great camp is, and love it more than they often let on.
Not to mention, they go all out for dress up stuff, and love to rock crazy hair and makeup.
Let me know what you think!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Up Close and Personal: Part II: A Difficult Decision
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
As I mentioned in a previous post, I recently came back from Winter Camp. It was an incredible week, full of new memories, laughs and a reminder of why I love camp. But there was a constant undertone of sadness, because I knew that I would not be returning to the same camp this summer.
I have spent the past eleven summers at this camp, and have gone through many roles. I was a camper, counselor in training, on-call program staff, counselor, and program area lead. I learned so much and have more memories then I could ever tell. This camp has become a home to me, and has given me so much more then I ever knew a camp could.
This summer, what would have been my third as a counselor, will be my first away. This is a decision that weighs heavy on my heart. And there is no one reason for my choice. However, I feel that by sharing with you all the process and emotions I am going through with this change may help you if you are ever in a similar situation.
There are many reasons that I am not returning to my home this summer. They range from geographical challenges, to financial struggles, to long term career goals. And none of those reasons make this any easier. However, I recently came across a new thought. There is never going to be an easy time for me to make this choice. There is always going to be another goal, another camper turned counselor that I want to be with for their first staff summer, another reason why it shouldn't be this year. Any while that may not make this any easier, it does make it more logical, and I like logic.
Lots of people have tried consoling me, with advise or words of wisdom. I've heard everything from "it's really time you moved on anyway" to "maybe you just need one summer off and you'll go back". But I still feel stuck. In some aspects, I feel so excited to experience something new this summer. I can't wait to have some time with my friends, be able to actually relax, and maybe get a new job, and have a new adventure. I'm even applying to some day camps! On the other hand, I'm heart broken. One of my closest friends is about to have her first summer as a counselor. I didn't make it to my eventual goal of being a head counselor. I will miss my campers more then anything. There are so many reasons I'm not ready to leave. But the decision is made.
I'd love to hear similar stories.
Samantha
As I mentioned in a previous post, I recently came back from Winter Camp. It was an incredible week, full of new memories, laughs and a reminder of why I love camp. But there was a constant undertone of sadness, because I knew that I would not be returning to the same camp this summer.
I have spent the past eleven summers at this camp, and have gone through many roles. I was a camper, counselor in training, on-call program staff, counselor, and program area lead. I learned so much and have more memories then I could ever tell. This camp has become a home to me, and has given me so much more then I ever knew a camp could.
This summer, what would have been my third as a counselor, will be my first away. This is a decision that weighs heavy on my heart. And there is no one reason for my choice. However, I feel that by sharing with you all the process and emotions I am going through with this change may help you if you are ever in a similar situation.
There are many reasons that I am not returning to my home this summer. They range from geographical challenges, to financial struggles, to long term career goals. And none of those reasons make this any easier. However, I recently came across a new thought. There is never going to be an easy time for me to make this choice. There is always going to be another goal, another camper turned counselor that I want to be with for their first staff summer, another reason why it shouldn't be this year. Any while that may not make this any easier, it does make it more logical, and I like logic.
Lots of people have tried consoling me, with advise or words of wisdom. I've heard everything from "it's really time you moved on anyway" to "maybe you just need one summer off and you'll go back". But I still feel stuck. In some aspects, I feel so excited to experience something new this summer. I can't wait to have some time with my friends, be able to actually relax, and maybe get a new job, and have a new adventure. I'm even applying to some day camps! On the other hand, I'm heart broken. One of my closest friends is about to have her first summer as a counselor. I didn't make it to my eventual goal of being a head counselor. I will miss my campers more then anything. There are so many reasons I'm not ready to leave. But the decision is made.
I'd love to hear similar stories.
Samantha
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