Summer Camp Stories: Libby's Experience

Libby's first year at camp was in 2022 with Camp Leaders in America, and she has been back every year since. If you're contemplating heading to work at a summer camp in America for the first time, then Libby's story is one you'll want to know.

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What summer camp did you go to?

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"I went to Iroquois Springs summer camp, which is about 90 miles away from New York City, near a place called the Catskill Mountains. It's a traditional summer camp for both boys and girls."

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When did you go to Iroquois Springs?

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"My first year at Iroquois Springs was in 2022."

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What job role did you do at Iroquois Springs?

"‍So, for my first summer season there in 2022, I was a rocketry specialist, which was great fun and allowed me to really understand how summer camp works.

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When I returned the following summer, 2023, I became a General Counselor, as I loved working with the campers in more depth daily. 

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Then, in the summer of 2024, I became a Group Leader, where I took on more responsibility, which is often the case for returning staff.

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All these roles helped shape me not only as a summer camp professional but also as a person."

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Before you flew out to camp for the first time, how were you feeling?

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"I was excited for a long time, and I absolutely could not wait to fly out to New York City and then onto summer camp. But then, maybe a week before, the excitement was matched with serious nerves (which, having spoken to everyone else about this, is entirely normal!).

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I was there questioning myself and unsure if I had made the right decision, but these little doubts are human.

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I'm so glad I didn't listen to that little voice, as going to summer camp was the best decision I've ever made, and it's had such a positive impact on my life and career."

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What is your favourite summer camp memory?

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"It's hard to pick one, as there are so many great memories of summer camp. 

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If I had to choose, I'd say my birthday. I have a summer birthday, so I'm at camp for it. This year, my campers threw me a surprise party in the bunk, which honestly caught me off guard and completely by surprise.

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It was so, so thoughtful, and it could possibly be the best birthday I've ever had."

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What's one thing they don't tell you about summer camp?

"You will meet the best people EVER!!

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This is no exaggeration. Summer camp friends are friends for life as you go through such a shared, intense, incredible experience together. 

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People you'll meet at camp 'get it', and you'll understand exactly what that means by the end of your first summer."

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What's your advice to those going to camp for the first time?

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"Please don't take anything for granted, even the more challenging days (everyone has them!). 

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Your summer will fly by so quickly, so don't waste time worrying about the small things!

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Regardless, it’ll be the summer of a lifetime, and the challenges will make you appreciate it even more."

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