As an individual who has dedicated much of his free-time helping children and adolescents, while instilling in them basic rules of respect, leadership, and kindness, I have found that working as a camp counselor, I’ve found that something most individuals would consider a summer job or a part-time hobby to have an immense impact on my life, more specifically, who I am as a person today.
I can’t say I’ve always wanted to work with children, but I can say, I’ve always wanted to change someone’s lift. Since I was small, I dreamed of being perceived as someone revelled for their immense impact on the hearts and minds of tomorrow. I figured taking a small job at a camp would be a step in the right direction, and came to realize that step was more of a leap.
These children looked up to me. While I found this endearing, I also found it a bit intimidating. Though they were only with me for a handful of hours during the day, I knew this would affect them, whether it be consciously or unconsciously. I did my best to set a good example. Simple things like settling disputes through mediation, reinforcing phrases like ‘please’ and ‘thank’ you; encouraging artistic freedom and exploration—I believe I have left a lasting impression.
Despite my lack of insight into what the future may hold for me, and where my path in life may lead, I know, from this experience alone, that whatever I do must have a positive influence on tomorrow’s youth, and shape our future lawyers, doctors, artists, and friends. If that camp counselor position is any indication of how wonderful it feels to watch lives flourish and develop before my eyes, then I think I have a bright future before me indeed.