What are your plans for this coming summer? Maybe you’re going on a road trip with your family. You might be flying to Europe. Maybe you’re going on a mission trip, where you might paint a church school in a foreign country. Or, if you’re anything like my past self, you’re practically doing nothing for a couple months. Sleeping in, watching YouTube, maybe working a little.
Although I’ve always looked forward to summer, I was afraid that summer 2024 would be just like the others. I wanted a summer full of memories and productivity. So when the director of Cohutta Springs Youth Camp came to CA to interview students, I knew this was my opportunity. This was the beginning of the biggest adventure of my life.
Now that the school year is in full swing, I love to talk about my time at camp. Not only do I want people to hear about what a good experience it was, but I want them to be able to live it themselves. These are my three reasons why a job at summer camp should be your next summer escapade.
- Getting to Spend Time in the Great Outdoors
Spending your summer at camp gives you the opportunity to spend time outside. Whether you get a job as a land instructor or you want to spend your free time in nature, there’s a variety of activities you have access to. My roommates and I especially enjoyed water attractions, which brought relief from the hot sun.There were also some trails that I explored on my own, and on one Sabbath afternoon, a small group of us went on a hike, stopping to enjoy the view of the lake. Sure, watch tans and bug bites are a downside to being outside, but hopefully not enough to ruin your stay.
2. Making New Friends
Of course, camp wouldn’t be camp without the people. As someone who loves spending time with good friends, I was in my element. I bonded well with my roommates and coworkers, and made friends with fellow cast members for a play I was in. During staff week, we played team-building games, and I got to know people I wouldn’t have otherwise. The best part was that these friends were the kind of people who brought out the best in me. I had multiple discussions about God with several of them. If you’re looking for great friendships, there are plenty of like-minded people you can find at camp.
3. Improving Your Relationship with God
Before I came to camp, my stagnant summers always left me feeling unfulfilled and far from God. I decided that things would be different now that I was working at summer camp. And they were! The environment was built to glorify God. Whether it was the stillness of the woods or conversations with friends, I was constantly reminded of God’s presence. Friday nights were especially spiritual, as we performed a play about Jesus and the campers were called to the altar. Their counselors would have an open discussion with them afterwards. I’ve never praised God so intensely as I did on Saturday nights, when we all sang our hearts out to the camp song countdown.
Maybe working at summer camp isn’t for everyone. It requires long hours of work and patience. But if, like me, you are looking for a fulfilling experience, then it’s worth considering. And if you do decide to, you’re sure to set off on an adventure in creation, friendship, and a deeper connection to God.
