Camp America and why you have to go!

Working in a summer camp abroad saved me from a boringly average job in England. I got to work away from home surrounded by young people from across the globe and spend my

summer basking in the American sun.

Aside from the tan and the beaded friendship bracelets that I brought home with me, I also

received so much valuable work and life experience, amazing memories, and a rewarding

pay check.

Think Disney’s Camp Rock and The Parent Trap, and you already have a good insight into life as a camp counsellor in America.

Being able to travel and work at the same time makes it possible for students to see the

world. Travelling is expensive, but by working at a summer camp you can experience living

in another country with no extensive damage to your precious bank account.

With a J-1 Visa, you are allowed three months to stay in the United States, provided you complete the working contract.

This allows for a summer of exploring after the camp closes its gates after another

successful, fun season. Whether you hit Vegas, Hawaii, or the Big Apple is up to you!

But what is camp life like?

When I first arrived at my chosen camp, Tyler Hill in Pennsylvania, I realised how stiff and

awkward English people are. By the end of the season, I was participating in all the songs and dances alongside the children, which I loved to do, but when I first arrived, it felt

embarrassing.

From epic water fights with real fire engines, colour war breakout and watching the sun go

down over the two lakes eating s'mores with your co-counsellors, camp life is like nothing

you have ever experienced.

Whilst the work is hard (looking after a group of teenagers could never be easy), it is so rewarding and the connections you make will last you a lifetime.

To sign up, find a trusted agency, for example IENA, BUNAC or Camp America to find out

more on how to spend your summer working in the USA.

Edited by Charlotte Smith