Okay, so I was sitting out on the porch of the Old Faithful Inn just contemplating life the other day and started thinking about my old summer camp that I attended for a gazillion years as a kid. I decided that I really miss it and I want to go back as a counselor next summer. Any advice on job applications and what to say to help improve my chances of getting hired? Applications don't start until January but I would like to plan ahead. Btw, it's Camp Skimino in Williamsburg, VA. An awesome summer camp! Thanks!
Think about the skills you have that might make you appealing to the camp, and if you don't have experience working with children get some.
Welcome to the boards :)
I am familiar with Camp Skimino... I've never worked there, but two friends of mine did in 2007.
- Teenster :cool:
I have a lot of experience working with children! I am a small group leader at my church and I assist at my church's day camps and VBS. I have also chaperoned some youth events. I have never taken care of a child in a residential setting though.
That was the last summer I attended as a camper. I was 14 years old. Do you know what your friend's camp nicknames were? I'm trying to think who the counselors were that summer.
Speedy & Twizzler.
- Teenster :cool:
Speedy sounds familiar. It was a few years ago though! :)
Going back to work at a camp is amazing! If you loved attending camp, you will love all the memories that will be made and the new friendships that will be made with your co-counselors! After all, spending a full summer at camp as a staff member is more powerful than attending a session or two as a camper! You will learn so many life-long skills that will help you along your life. Your leadership skills will grow. Personally, I believe the passion for camp is more important than the skills you already have. Your passion and dedication will help you flourish and make a beautiful impact to your camp, which will help build your old and new skills.
Also try and find out if they require anything that required certifications and try to get them before you apply. As far as certifications, some common ones that camps require in my past experince is First Aid and CPR-- with CPR you would need child and adult-- according to the Red Cross, adults are anyone over 13 years old so to be safe you would need both. Also if you want to be a lifeguard, find out if you need certification before hand or if the camp will provide that.
Thanks for the advice guys! (This is KierstenRives) I couldn't seem to log into the account so I made a new one. I just got hired today as a unit manager for summer 2014!
Thanks! I also got contacted yesterday by the camp. They also want me to teach archery.