Growing up, whenever I heard “summer camp” I immediately thought of campfire songs, capture the flag, and cabin living. However, after spending a whole summer working at a camp, my perspective completely changed. In the summer of 2024, I spent three months in upstate New York, living on a lake in the Adirondacks—a summer that has since shaped who I am today.
That summer influenced me personally by giving me space to work hard and build deep connections with coworkers and supervisors. Although the camp was a whirlwind of fun and silliness, keeping it running required hard work. I experienced long days and moments when I felt as though I had failed. There were moments of exhaustion and excitement, hurt and joy, and laughter and tears. In the hardest moments, I learned the importance of vulnerability and how to ask for help. Those lessons have been invaluable, propelling me when building new relationships and taking on new roles. Camp gave me the chance to learn more about myself and how I operate.
My time at camp also influenced me professionally. I learned about delegation, leadership, and the importance of work-life balance. My supervisor was strict about not overworking and encouraged me to take time to rest and connect with others. I believe this principle will serve me well as I enter the professional world. Camp also taught me how to let go of control and help others learn, through delegation. Delegation is a skill I began developing and one I will continue to learn. I also had the chance to take on leadership roles. I was responsible for teaching, mentoring, and delegating tasks to volunteers. This opportunity to lead taught me how to serve, support, and oversee others.
I am eager to see how these personal and professional lessons will shape my time as a Fellow. I hope these lessons propel me to network, build strong connections, and continue to learn how to better lead others.
I entered that summer at camp unsure of my role and the people I would be working with but left with lifelong friendships, and a new perspective on leadership and building relationships. It is a time in my life I will look back on fondly. Camp taught me how to lead, how to connect, and most importantly, how to grow. That summer will always be a part of my story.
