The Summer that Changed my Life

Since I turned 15, I have nearly always had some sort of job. I've worked food prep jobs, food service jobs, and dish-washing jobs. I've worked in retail, I've worked a phone-a-thon, and I've been a lifeguard. I've babysat and tutored. I've scrubbed toilets and dusted library shelves. All of these jobs had their pros and cons, but one job has always stuck out as being my favorite.

One summer, I worked as a camp counselor. Lots of college kids do, right? They spend the summer swimming, making crafts, singing songs, and having a blast with kids of all ages. They make lifelong friends and mortal enemies with their coworkers. They find out what they're really made of.

I did all of those things too.

But, you see, my summer was different. Instead of working with fresh-faced children, I worked with adults who had special needs. In addition to all of the things listed above, I was also responsible for feeding my campers. I had to help shower them. I had to make sure that they didn't wander off while we were playing games. I had to keep track of their allergies. At one point, I had to stay up all night and keep a (stark naked) camper from trying to escape out the fire door. I had to run out of the dining hall without dinner to keep track of a one-on-one camper. I discovered a new bruise every other day from being hit and kicked by upert campers. I had to deal with know-it-all coworkers, lazy coworkers, and coworkers who would have rather been anywhere else (and let us know [constantly]). And, of course, let's not even mention the camp food!

Does it sound totally miserable? It was, sometimes. But, that summer, I changed. I became a leader. I figured out how to deal with conflict. I grew to fully appreciate being assigned to the air-conditioned cabins for the week. I learned how to multi-task. I tie-dyed my first shirt. I discovered that I could handle far more than I thought I was capable of. I caught my first fish (and then made it into bait to catch a bigger fish!). I made friends who I still talk to weekly. I developed a deep, unchangeable respect for individuals living with special needs. I became a more loving and accepting friend. I learned to make balloon animals. I became an advocate for people who are unable to stand up for themselves.

Reflecting on my time at camp is a bittersweet feeling. I miss being there, and I miss my friends (both campers and coworkers). Working at Camp Allyn has changed my life for the better, and I wouldn't trade that summer for the world!