Being a Camp Counselor at a Sleepaway Camp

I just finished my second year working at a sleepaway camp as a camp counselor.  I took the job last year in hopes to gain more experience with children and adolescents.  Nothing could prepare me for what I was about to experience!  After my first summer, I was doubtful whether or not I'd go back.  At the last minute, I decided to do so.  My second year was completely different than my first year.  I realized that my relationships with the campers were not the most important thing.  My relationships with the other counselors were just as significant.  I mean, when you're practically living with the same people for the entire summer, you have to learn to get along!

I worked at Camp Woodmont, which is a co-ed camp for ages 6-14.  It is located atop Lookout Mountain in north Georgia and is accredited by the American Camping Association (ACA).  The camp is owned by Jim and Jane Bennett (affectionately known as "Mr. and Mrs. B").  They opened the camp in 1981.  Their two children, Alyson Gondek and Tyran Bennett, serve as the camp directors.  Mr. and Mrs. B, Alyson and Tyran all take a "hands-on" approach when it comes to running the camp.  They take time to get to know each of the staff, as well as all the children that attend the camp over the summer.  Unfortunately, Mr. B passed away in July of 2006 from complications with pulmonary fibrosis and stomach cancer.

Some people may think it's an easy job to hang out at a camp all summer and play with kids, but there's more to it.  Each counselor lives in a cabin with children.  The counselor has to forget about personal space and personal time.  My life became all about the 8 girls in my cabin: the laughter and the drama.  Not everyone has what it takes to be a summer camp counselor.  At first, I didn't think I did, but it has become the most rewarding job I've ever had.