Summer camps are known for fun. Places where memories are made that last a lifetime. It’s true! But not just for campers. Camp counselors, or instructors, have amazing summer camp experiences, too. This summer job can enrich a person’s life way beyond June through August. 

According to CeCe Brannan, a KidzToPros STEM camp instructor who teaches middle schoolers the fun of Python and robotics, this job is a way to make a positive difference in the lives of children. 

“When I was a kid, I was obsessed with robotics,” CeCe said. “And growing up, I didn’t have any women instructors. Girls like me weren’t encouraged to get into STEM. So now I get to watch kids have those aha moments, but especially girls. This is my second year as a camp instructor for KidzToPros and I love it. For example, knowing I’m a role model. They get the message they don’t have to be just one type of person.”

Here are some reasons to be a summer camp instructor:

Influence the lives of children. College students and recent graduates sometimes still feel like kids. But like CeCe said, in reality they are role models. Younger campers look up to their instructors. They see someone a bit closer to their own age navigating the adult world. They are paying attention. Certainly, kids need role models outside their family who exemplify hard work, grit and some grown-up wisdom. That’s how you serve the future as a camp instructor.

Recharge your batteries. Summer is a great time to try something new, get out of your daily routine, and enjoy new surroundings. Helping campers explore unfamiliar topics, you show them how it’s done. In an environment with less stress, everyone can have fun and keep their brains working at the same time. Then return to your routine in the fall with a fresh outlook.

Get creative. Camps allow kids and their instructors to branch out and evolve. For instance, have you ever wanted to try teaching improv? What about art skills or coding? Coach basketball? Get outside and teach soccer drills for a few hours every day? So if you have a passion for something and want to share it with others, campers everywhere can benefit. They need you!

Great experience for job seekers. Are you interested in building a resume? Summer camp instructors stand out among those with only part-time jobs. Therefore, a summer job as camp instructor, or counselor, can help prepare you for a professional career in many ways. For example, camp experience shows that you’re not afraid of hard work and long hours. You’ve thrived in an independent environment and demonstrated accountability. Employers are looking for candidates with such skills.

Make your own memories.

Spending all or part of every day with kids is an enriching growth opportunity. Quite often, campers teach their instructors just as much as their instructors teach them. Camp counselors interact with kids from a variety of backgrounds and help them take on challenges. Consequently, you’ll encourage campers, and that positivity is contagious. It’s something you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Friends become family. Camps bring people together to work toward a common goal. You and your peers will challenge yourselves, influencing children to explore and grow. Instructors spend hours helping campers be their very best. This creates bonds between the counselors themselves that last long after returning home.  

Discover yourself. Personal growth happens when we step outside our comfort zone. When we surprise ourselves. Summertime is a wonderful opportunity to reassess your life’s path. Look at where you’re going. What do you want to do? Who do you want to be? These are the answers you find along the way.

Socialize, socialize, socialize. Camp is a great place to practice communication skills. And also learn different ways of accepting others for who they are. Teamwork can bring out the best in everyone. Interactions around sports, STEM or the arts allow us to hone verbal and non-verbal skills. Self-esteem and connections thrive amongst discipline, responsibility and cooperation.

Enjoy the outdoors. Camp instructors encourage kids to get active. Team sports help kids compete to bring out the best in themselves. Any kind of physical activity sets a good foundation to stay active throughout the year. Bring plenty of sunblock, water and enjoy some physical activity while teaching young campers.

It’s a good job! Get paid to have fun with kids and enjoy the outdoors. Build some valuable experience and expand your skill set. What’s not to love?

Challenge yourself. Become the leader you know you can be and help influence a new generation to do their best. Work as a summer camp instructor and reap the benefits.