Hey, I’m Jack! Last year I applied to work at a Summer Camp in America for the very first time, and honestly, it turned out to be the best decision I’ve ever made. If you’re thinking about applying but feel a bit unsure about how the process works, I get it – I was in your shoes not too long ago.

From spotting an advert on Facebook to my very first day at camp, the whole process was smoother (and more exciting) than I imagined. So, here’s my honest first-timer’s guide to applying for a Summer Camp job in the USA, with some tips I wish I’d known before starting.

Quick links

Where it all began

I’ll admit it — I wasn’t totally sure what I wanted to do that summer. Then one evening, scrolling through Facebook, I saw a video of people kayaking, playing soccer, and sitting around a campfire in America. That was my first introduction to USA Summer Camp.

Within minutes, I was imagining myself there. I clicked through, filled out the quick online form, and within a day one of the team gave me a call. That chat made everything real. They explained how the programme works, what the J-1 Visa is, and what sort of roles were available. By the end of the call, I knew this was something I had to do.

Building my profile

The next step was creating my profile — basically your CV, but much more fun. This is what Camp Directors see, so it’s your chance to stand out.

Jack’s tip: Don’t just list your hobbies — show how they matter. For me, I mentioned playing football and helping coach my younger brother’s team. That instantly made me a good fit for camp roles. Add in photos, videos, and even a short ‘about me’ video if you can. Let your personality shine.

It’s less about being perfect and more about showing camps the real you — fun, approachable, and ready to muck in.

The interview process

Within a week, I got an interview with a camp in Pennsylvania. I was nervous at first, expecting something like a job interview back home. But it was completely different.

The Camp Director wanted to chat about what sports I liked, what I’d do if kids were homesick, and why I wanted to work at camp. It felt more like a friendly conversation than a grilling.

Jack’s tip: Camp Directors aren’t looking for corporate professionals — they’re looking for people who are passionate about working with kids, can bring energy to camp, and can be a positive role model. So relax, smile, and just be yourself.

Applying for my J-1 Visa

Once I got my job offer, the next big step was applying for my J-1 Visa. This part sounded intimidating, but USA Summer Camp walked me through everything.

I filled in an online DS-160 form, paid my visa fee, and booked my appointment at the US Embassy in London.

At the Embassy, I queued, handed over my documents, and answered a few simple questions about where I was working and what I’d be doing at camp. It wasn’t scary at all — it was over in about 10 minutes. A week later, my passport arrived back in the post with my shiny new visa.

Jack’s tip: Don’t overthink the Embassy interview. As long as you’re honest, prepared with the right documents, and confident about your reasons for going, you’ll be fine.

Pre-orientation meeting

Before you even pack your bags, USA Summer Camp will host an online pre-orientation meeting. This was really useful for me because it gave me a chance to meet the team, ask questions, and feel more prepared before I flew out.

We covered the essentials like:

  • What to expect at camp
  • Visa and travel details
  • Insurance and emergency contacts
  • Tips for settling in quickly

It’s also great for connecting with others heading out the same year — it instantly makes you feel part of the community.

Countdown to camp

With my visa approved and my flights booked, it was time to pack. Camps usually send you a list of essentials, and USA Summer Camp even has a blog with packing tips.

Jack’s essentials:

  • Crocs (yes, everyone wears them!)
  • A water bottle
  • Comfortable shorts and T-shirts
  • A few small things that remind you of home

Whether you’re a rucksack or suitcase person, pack light — you’ll pick up plenty along the way.

Staff training week

Here’s something I didn’t realise until I arrived: before the kids come, staff go through training week.

This was such an important part of the experience. You get to:

  • Meet all the other counsellors from around the world
  • Learn the camp rules, songs, and daily routines
  • Get trained in your role (like coaching soccer or leading arts and crafts)
  • Practise scenarios like handling homesickness or leading activities safely

By the end of training week, I already felt part of the camp family. So when the campers arrived, I was confident and ready.

My first day with campers

That first morning when the kids arrived was unforgettable. Buses rolled in, music was blasting, counsellors were cheering, and suddenly camp came alive.

Within hours, I was coaching soccer, cheering on kids at the climbing wall, and joining in with chants around the dining hall. It was full-on, non-stop, and absolutely incredible.

Looking back

Now that I’ve been through it all, I can honestly say applying for a Summer Camp job in America changed me for the better. I’ve grown in confidence, learned how to work with people from all over the world, and discovered just how rewarding it is to make a difference in kids’ lives.

So if you’re on the fence, take it from me — just go for it. You won’t regret it.