I never went to an overnight camp as a kid/camper, but I have been a counselor for an overnight orchestra camp for many summers. This past year was my fifth year there, and I was the most tenured counselor. One of the staff members was a counselor for eleven years, but he and I have an agreement that I’ll take over as camp director when he wants to retire.
If you’re too old to be a camper, I would highly recommend becoming a counselor/telling young adults in your life to do so. It’s way better than being a babysitter or nanny in my opinion because you get to do activities that you enjoy outside of your normal setting. Although there can be problem kids here and there, most of the children are super fun to spend time with. The relationship you can build with them is similar to a teacher, but you’re most like a cool older friend than an adult to them. I have many fond memories of the kids I really bonded with; as their role model, you can foster their self-confidence and encourage good habits (like BRUSHING THEIR TEETH and eating fruit). It’s also a great way to earn a paycheck while having a fun summer experience.
