I went to summer camp every summer from the time I was 6-years-old to the time I was a senior in high school. Starting in the youngest age group and working my way up to a counselor, camp taught me to grow up. I was suddenly not only completely responsible for myself, but also for children once I became a counselor. Spending a week or two away from home, with no parents and fewer rules, prepared me for college in more ways than I thought.

I got a little taste of the type of food I would be served in campus dining halls.

The mass-produced pancakes and mystery meats are only slightly more questionable than the room-temperature food sitting on the buffet in those freshman dining halls that you hate to love.

The whole sharing a room thing.

Actually, I was pretty lucky when I came to college because instead of having 12 roommates, I only had one. Learning to live with others (and their personalities) is one of the biggest reasons people have roommate problems.

Being aware of what's going on around you.

Being constantly surrounded by hundreds of people who are sweaty, hungry, and tired, unfortunately, is something that transposes into college life from camp. Being around this many people makes you think twice before you cut someone in line or don't clean your elliptical after using it.

Trying new things.

Camp encourages to push your limits. You're constantly surrounded by people who are going through a lot of firsts: The first time rock climbing, the first time being away from home, and maybe even first time wearing shoes in the shower. Much like camp, college presents a world of new experiences and opportunities. Though pushing your limits is encouraged, it's never forced.

Making hard decisions (without asking Mom first).

From deciding when to shower or if that cut on your leg requires medical attention, you don't have someone there to coach you through every motion. Making the tough calls (or not so tough ones) is all a part of growing up.

Creating incredible bonds with people.

At camp, you build valuable and meaningful relationships that weren’t based on any outside assumptions or judgments. That translated into putting myself out there and not being scared of meeting new people.

I really don't thank my parents enough for this introduction to independence at such a young age. I have been able to live and work with people who come from different walks of life while creating incredible and meaningful friendships. Camp is truly the best gift you can give a child as both an escape from the boredom of summer and an unmatched glimpse into college life.