Five Reasons You Should Become a Camp Counselor

 

I LOVE my job and it all came about because I decided to work as a summer camp counselor during my sophomore year of college rather than continuing to flip burgers at McDonald's. While camp counselors are not always paid the best, there are some serious perks to the job that you can't find anywhere else. If you're on the fence about taking a counselor position, here are five reasons that you should go for it:

1. FUN

The title says it all. Being a camp counselor is one of the most rewarding and fun jobs that you will ever have! From hanging out in the pool on your weekend off to a shaving cream war with your campers, you'll have the opportunity to feel like a kid again. There is a good chance that you will take on a few new hobbies while you're at camp. 

2. Your Resume Will Thank You

Nothing, and I mean NOTHING looks better on a resume for a job than a camp counselor position. Camp counselors develop skills in leadership, time management, empathy, problem-solving, communication, patience, and more! These are all things that potential employers like to see. I credit camp for making my resume competitive and helping me get my first teaching job. I rocked my interview and was able to use a ton of applicable experiences from summer camp. 

3. Friends

If you work at a summer camp, it is likely that you will make at least one good friend by the end of the summer. I was lucky enough to meet two of my best friends at camp. We still stay in touch regularly today. Both of my best friends from camp were in my wedding and I love them to pieces. When you spend an entire summer with someone you learn a lot about each other. Of course, you won't be friends with everyone you meet, but generally, the friends you do meet at camp will be long lasting. 

4. Valuable Skills and Certifications

Working as a camp counselor is a great way to strengthen your leadership skills, but leadership is not the only skill you'll gain. Typically camp counselors get certified in first aid and CPR, archery instructing, and lifeguarding. These are all excellent skills to have if you plan on working with children and can even be put to use for other jobs. 

5. Room and Board

This perk is often overlooked when applying for a camp counselor position, but it is a valuable perk. Most overnight camps provide you with a place to stay during your time off AND cover your food for the camp season. While it might not seem like much, a close to $0 grocery bill each month will add up to big savings down the road. If you're lucky you're camp will even let you use some of the camp amenities on your time off. Imagine having a pool and/or lake to swim in all time! 

If you've already been a camp counselor, what was your favorite part of the job? Tell us in the comments!