June 27, 2024, by Jackie Thompson

Working as a camp counsellor in the USA

By Alisija Sestakova, natural sciences student

Last summer I travelled to the USA to work in a summer camp with children from six years to 16 years of age. I worked at Camp Eagle Hill, through a Work Play USA agency. My role was a ropes/zipline specialist and general counsellor and later I got promoted to a group leader position.

My role

For my speciality, I had to set up ropes and equipment for a climbing tower every day. I also set up the zipline, which was 12 meters high.

Throughout the day during meals and free time, I had to look after my bunk. This involved waking them up in the mornings and putting them to bed in the evenings. Dealing with any disputes or disagreements or supporting the children while they were going through their teenage growing process.

I have learnt a lot while working with different children. We had several camps throughout my nine weeks in the USA. I  had the experience of working with a full sleep-away camp, day  campers, a tennis camp and even a Chinese culture camp. All  of these had various children from completely different backgrounds, some were from privileged families and some  from very economically deprived backgrounds.

 

Adjusting and settling in

The first two weeks were definitely the most challenging part. As with any job, it is always hard to start something new and get into the routine. I didn’t think that I would be able to last until the end of the contract. But in the end, I didn’t want to leave and received the Counsellor of the Year award! The connection with other counsellors, the engagement from the children, and the camp premises became a home for me.

Memorable moment

It is very hard to pick out one particular memory since there were so many, but there is one I remembered. I had a 14-year-old girl who was extremely shy and homesick.

It took me a lot of extra effort to help her adjust. I had to have one-to-one swim sessions with her since she really enjoyed swimming. She assisted me at the climbing tower and I taught her how we set up the equipment. In the evenings I would designate a bit of time to chat to her about her day. Eventually, by the end of camp, I saw her smiling and having fun with other kids.

Just before leaving, she handed me a piece of paper. She wrote me a letter and the words she wrote really touched me. The letter made me cry.  With moments like that, I felt like I did a good job, and all the sleepless nights, blisters on my feet and headaches were worth it. Seeing a child smile is invaluable, sharing their life story with you, or just bringing you a flower they picked for you, these memories will live on.

Would I do anything differently?

No, I don’t regret anything. One thing to keep in mind is that you are going there for the experience, not the money. 

My advice if you’re interested in children’s camps

I would definitely recommend saving money as soon as you decide to do it. Yes, accommodation and food are provided, but on the nights off and days off, you’ll be out with friends. You don’t want to be in a position where everyone is out and you have to stay behind in camp because you are short on money. Also, America is more expensive than the UK and I think you only realise when you are actually there.

Be prepared to work long hours. You are visiting America and it’s definitely fun, but don’t forget you are there to work. Be prepared to work with children, training is provided, but you need to know how to maintain discipline and maintain your authority. The best way to describe a counsellor is like an older sibling. You are not there to mother or father them, but you are also not a friend, it’s a balance to gain trust and have fun while keeping your authority.

I would 100% recommend this experience to anyone thinking of applying!

What I’ve gained from the experience

Firstly, I made connections with people from all over the world.  I am currently looking into working as an English teacher in  China. I wouldn’t have known about the programme if I hadn’t  met people at camp who were actually doing this.

Secondly, when the recruiters look at my CV, they will see a nine-week experience with children. For four weeks I worked at a sleepaway camp, where I was with the children 24/7.  This will demonstrate my ability to work under pressure and  teamwork skills.

 If you’re looking to work overseas during the summer or  find an internship abroad, visit our website for  information and book an appointment with an adviser.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on Google+
• Share on LinkedIn