7 emotions experienced by summer camp staff
Welcome to the summer of a lifetime
Working at a USA Summer Camp is not your average summer job – it’s a wild, wonderful whirlwind of emotions, friendships, and unforgettable memories. One minute you’re belly-laughing by the lake, the next you’re feeling proud beyond belief as a camper conquers their fears. This is the emotional rollercoaster every camp staff member rides – and trust us, it’s worth every single moment.
Here are seven emotions you’ll definitely experience during your Summer Camp adventure…
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1. Fear
Fear of the unknown is totally normal.
Will I make friends? What if I mess up? What will the kids think of me? But the moment you arrive at camp, you realise you’re not alone – everyone’s in the same boat. That fear turns into excitement fast. By the end of the summer, your biggest fear will be saying goodbye.
2. Excitement
Every single day at Summer Camp is bursting with excitement.
From epic games and campfires to talent shows and theme days – you’ll wake up wondering, “What adventure is waiting for me today?” Camp is full-on, fast-paced, and absolutely electric. No two days are ever the same.
3. Frustration
Yep, even in paradise, not every moment is perfect.
You might clash with a co-counsellor, deal with a camper who tests your patience, or feel overwhelmed by non-stop energy. But you’ll learn to breathe, adapt, and grow. These challenges build resilience—and they make the highs even sweeter.
4. Bravery
From stepping onto a plane solo to leading your first group activity, bravery is everywhere.
You’ll face fears, try new things, and say yes to situations you never imagined. Camp pushes your comfort zone in all the right ways, and by the end, you’ll realise just how strong and capable you really are.
5. Pride
Few things compare to the pride you feel at camp.
Maybe it’s teaching a camper to swim, watching someone shine on stage, or smashing your own personal goals. That proud feeling sticks with you long after camp ends – it’s what keeps so many staff coming back year after year.
6. Happiness
Pure, contagious, sunshine-filled joy.
That’s what Summer Camp is all about. Laughing until your stomach hurts, bonding with your cabin, making s’mores under the stars – it’s all part of what makes camp feel magical. You’ll smile so much your face hurts (in the best way).
7. Sadness
The hardest part of camp? Leaving.
You’ll form bonds that feel like family and create memories that last a lifetime. Saying goodbye is never easy, but it’s a sign you’ve been part of something truly special. And don’t worry – you can always apply again next summer (and you probably will!).
From fear to forever
At USA Summer Camp, you won’t just work a job – you’ll live a story. A story packed with emotion, adventure, and growth. Camp changes you in the best way possible. So if you’re ready for the highs, the challenges, the friendships, and the fun… your best summer ever is waiting.
Apply today and feel it all.