Two January's ago, I was sitting on the floor of my friend's dorm room thinking of what I could do for a job the first summer after college started. Many of my friends from home were taking summer courses or had found outstanding summer internships, but I was lost. The only job I could think of enjoying in the summer was babysitting but I didn't know anyone in need, so I googled the next best thing, summer camps. I had gone to summer camp when I was younger but had never considered turning that into a job. A google search bar was my new best friend. Who knew there were so many different kinds of camps; whether it was a YMCA camp near my college, day camps in the town over from mine, or a sleep away camp 9 states away, there were so many options at my disposal. I sent my application to a few camps and within a few weeks I was hired, for what I now consider, my dream job.

Being a summer camp counselor has become one of the best experiences in my life because of all the experience it has given me. When you're sitting around a bonfire with people you have only known for a week, looking at their smiles, and seeing how everyone has meshed together so well, you understand that you are in the right place.There is never a better feeling than being surrounded the outdoors, watching a sunset with your best friends or chatting with campers about their day. The feeling of being surrounded by smiling faces everyday, of either a co-counselor camper, it never fails to make you smile back. And although the food still may not be a 5-star meal, it is way better to eat s'more's bars right out of the tin than to have to be civilized with a fork and knife.

The best google search I ever made was to find my summer camp job in Maine. The friends I have made and the life experiences it has given me have truly made my time in college that much more sweet. It is hard to turn down uninterrupted time hanging out at the waterfront or walking around camp getting hello's and smiles from everyone you walk by. Where else can you go to the beach one week and have a paint fight the next? The only answer to that is a summer camp. Find your place, find you camp and find the best summer of your life. I know the decision will not disappoint you, plus it will give you some of the best friends you have ever known. Thank you to all my lifelong pals that camp has given me. Thank you to camp for giving me the best summer job I have ever had.