Going back to summer camp for a second year can feel like a big decision. You already know what camp is like, you’ve made the memories and you might even feel like that chapter of your life is finished.
But is a second summer at camp worth it?
In this episode of The Summer Camp Rookie Podcast, we catch up with Lauren live from summer camp in the USA. After initially deciding she wasn’t going back, she changed her mind - and returned to a completely different camp experience.
What changes when you return to summer camp?
Your second summer doesn’t have to be a repeat of your first.
Lauren returned to camp in a new leadership role, which meant taking on more responsibility and helping support other camp counsellors. Instead of simply knowing how camp works, she was now helping other people have a great summer too.
Returning also means coming back with experience. You know what to expect, you understand camp life and you can focus more on developing your skills, taking on new challenges and making the experience your own.
Can you become a leader at summer camp?
Returning to camp can open up opportunities to take on more responsibility.
Leadership at summer camp isn’t just about having a job title. It can mean checking in on other staff, making sure people feel supported, dealing with difficult conversations and putting the needs of your team first.
For Lauren, one of the biggest lessons from her second summer was learning how to communicate clearly - even when conversations felt awkward.
These are skills that can go far beyond camp.
What skills can you gain from working at summer camp?
Camp puts you in situations where you have to learn quickly.
You’re living and working with other people, dealing with challenges as they happen and taking responsibility in an environment that can be completely different from life at home.
A summer at camp can help you develop skills including:
- Leadership
- Communication
- Resilience
- Confidence
- Teamwork
- Problem-solving
- Supporting and managing others
Lauren describes returning for another summer as an experience that made her feel like she could take on anything.
Is working at summer camp always easy?
No - and that’s part of the experience.
There will be difficult days and moments when you question whether you’re cut out for it. Camp can be busy, unpredictable and challenging.
But those moments can also be where you learn the most about yourself.
As Lauren explains, camp gives you a concentrated period of time to grow, adapt and discover what you're capable of. The experience can be challenging and incredibly rewarding at the same time.
Should you return to summer camp?
If you loved your first summer but aren't sure whether to go back, remember that returning doesn't mean doing the exact same thing again.
You could take on a different role, develop new skills, become a leader, reunite with friends and meet a completely new group of people.
Lauren thought her camp chapter was finished. Then she went back.
Her verdict from camp? She was very glad she did.
