Having read the promotion for Camp America’s recruitment fair in today’s show I thought it might be a good Idea to write about my experience with Camp America for those who are interested in what they have to offer.
This is the some of volunteers I lived and worked with at Camp ABC
I began my application process In September 2008 and attended an interview shortly after where I was accepted and guaranteed a place at a camp for the following summer. Having heard nothing from camps for a few months I decided to attend a recruitment fair in Kensington.
When I arrived an hour before the doors opened there was a queue outside of the venue that wrapped around the courtyard and down the street! I waited outside for an hour and a half until I eventually got in. The venue was packed with people queuing at camp stalls for an interview. Luckily I had researched which camps were attending on the website and made straight for my top 3 camps.
Having waited another 45mins for my 1st choice, I finally got an interview with the Camp Director. The interview went well but she turned me away 3 times and told me to choose another camp because the ‘Fresh Air Fund’ was not a typical “rick kid” camp and she didn’t think I would be cut for it. On the third try I was adament with her that I could do it and she should hire me as the media teacher and counsellor ! I was only the third person she had hired that day out of the hundreds who’d waited patiently.
So, if you are attending the Recruitment fair or interested in Camp America my tips to you are:
1. Prepare – research camps you want to talk to and prioritise, you may not get to speak to all of them.
2. Be Patient – you will have to queue outside and inside, so make sure you wear layers and bring a bottle of water and a snack!
3. Stand Out – there are hundreds of people looking for a place at a camp some more deserving than others, so know what you’re good at and don’t be afraid to big ourself up!
4. Be Persistent - If like me you are turned away and you aren’t ready to give up, go back to them prove to them that you’re serious and can do the job!
5. Don’t think of Camp America as a holiday – it’s hard work! HOWEVER, the travel afterwards is amazing and worth the hard work you put in at camp.
I’m really excited for anyone going to camp this summer, you are going to have the best summer of your life
Camp was really hard but I learned alot about myself and grew up – alot!
I made amazing friends from all over the world who I am still in touch with and making plans to see again this summer.
The fair is happening this Saturday, February 27th, down in London, Kensington.
Good Luck!!!
Amy x
Any questions please text or email me on my show Tuesdays from 5pm.
