Counselor In Training and Junior Counselors

The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program teaches high schoolers how to have fun while also taking the time and effort to ensure campers understand the ins and outs of summer camp. CITs shift some of their focus from themselves to helping others have the best week ever. Counselors In Training assist during activities, ensuring campers are prepared, understand the rules, and stay excited. Counselors In Training do not lead activities or supervise children on their own; instead, they work as assistant leaders. Counselors In Training also practice leading by example, becoming excellent role models by participating in games, hyping up all the activities, and making every camper feel welcome.

Many of these skills, and more, are introduced and developed during the Spring Training Weekend. The training weekend focuses on communication skills, setting expectations, team building, and supporting all campers at Summer Camp.

1. A child entering 11th grade will be a Junior Counselor I.
2. A child who is entering 12th (during the same year as camp) will be a Junior Counselor II

In this next phase of leadership, Junior Counselors will lead two classes each week, take a more active role in the dorms, and learn how to help create the magic that makes summer camp special. Come prepared with class ideas! Junior Counselors will focus on supporting younger groups of campers directly in the dorms and during classes; and will also participate in “behind-the-scenes” work during evening activities, taking a more active role in set design and character portrayal for theme night.

Junior Counselors continue to develop communication, organizational, and group-management skills—abilities that are essential in any workplace. Many of the skills Junior Counselors gain at Summer Camp can enhance college applications, resumes, cover letters, and should not be underestimated.

Throughout the week, Junior Counselors will be coached and evaluated during this process. Junior Counselors are expected to serve as excellent role models, hype up activities, engage all campers, attend to those in need, portray creative characters during program night, and remain calm in emergencies.

Many of the skills needed to be a Junior Counselor are first introduced and developed during the spring Training Weekend. The weekend focuses on communication, setting expectations, team building, and learning how to support all campers at Summer Camp.