Way back in 1998 I decided it was time for a change. I’d worked in retail sales for approximately 12 years and to be honest was quite bored. I knew about the summer camp program after being involved with a youth club where I saw it advertised. So I did my shopping around. I checked out what I could about how it all worked and what I needed to do. This is how I found CCUSA.

I’d applied in late December so everything was quite hectic. People on leave from work, I was In retail so was also very busy but I was assisted all the way by CCUSA. I had my interview and sent all my documents and just had to wait, so wait I did but not for long.

The annual CCUSA job fair was being held in February so I was invited to attend it. I met a bunch of camp directors at took a position at a camp in Update New York. I was employed to teach Flying Trapeze to I was ecstatic. How much fun was I going to have.

So I packed my bags in June (I had a late start) and headed over to the big apple. I got to camp and was blown away. Everything I could possibly imagine was there. I wanted to be a kid again and be a camper so I could join in. Never fear, I got to do a lot anyhow. But this was where it all started. Working some really long hours, kids getting up really early and going to bed really late. I was working an environment that was extremely physical and I really wanted some sleep. This was probably the hardest job I’d ever had.

I managed to get through the season. I met a bunch of campers over my 10 weeks there and made some fantastic friends in other counselors from around the world, many of whom I am still in touch with to this day. I continued to go to camp for 7 years only finishing in 2005. It was a life changing experience for me. I have changed my direction in life, now working at a school. Many of my friends have also changed what they were doing from their experience.

For anyone a little unsure – I’d say do it. Break out of your shell and see this big wide world. You will not be disappointed.