This summer I had the opportunity to work at a summer camp for kids between the ages of six to 13. While working, I was reminded of how determined and energetic I used to be as a kid. Seeing their determination to be someone and accomplish something in their lifespan is refreshing. They don't limit themselves with what they think is doable or worry about how they’re going to do it. They set their minds to it and go about making it happen. The girls, who want to be singers sing extra louder in music class while the boys, who want to be painters pay attention to small details in their paintings in art class until they're content with their artwork. I see the passion each student has when putting effort and emphasis into what they enjoy doing.

I believe camps like these encourage an environment of development and creativity. It instills in kids a desire to learn more. The passion to learning and experience things that are outside of an individuals comfort zone is impowering. Although, the kids now might not view their experiences as life changing, in the future, they will be more aware of the things around them and what they have to offer.

I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work at this camp. As a kid, I was also in a similar camp and it helped me tremendously. I felt like I had a second home and 20 years later the people I met then are still in my life today. I remember my counselors at the time were also college students and wonderful role models.

I hope to be a stepping stone for those kids’ development. I wish to see them develop into adults who are not only successful, but have good character and morals. I try my best to set a good example and be a role model for them to follow.

They often say we are destroying the earth and our kids will be left without a home, but we forget to leave good kids for the earth. In today’s society kids do not have the best role models at home or in schools. They learn from the people around them not knowing if their actions are right or wrong. As they grow older they consider their actions normal, but their conduct is inappropriate and disrespectful. Camps and similar programs are trying to instill in the kids’ good morals and conduct. I believe in the future; programs like these will develop good leaders for tomorrow.