If you’ve ever thought about working at a Summer Camp in America, chances are a little voice in your head has thrown up reasons not to. What if I miss home? What if I don’t have the right skills? What about uni or my summer job back home?

Here’s the truth: those doubts are normal — but they’re also the very reasons why you should go. A summer at camp is more than just a job; it’s an adventure that will change your life in ways you never imagined. You’ll gain independence, confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong friendships — all while having the kind of fun that makes you wonder how this can possibly count as ‘work’.

Let’s tackle the most common worries head-on and show you why nothing should stop you from seizing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Quick links

“I’ll miss my friends and family”

Meet people from around the world, bond with your fellow counsellors, and create friendships that feel like they’ve lasted a lifetime

Homesickness happens, but camp replaces it with something extraordinary: your camp family. You’ll meet people from around the world, bond with your fellow counsellors, and create friendships that feel like they’ve lasted a lifetime — all in just a few weeks.

And remember, staying in touch with home is easier than ever. A quick video call or message is all it takes to reconnect, but chances are, you’ll be too busy making memories to even think about missing out.

“What about uni or graduation?”

Good news — Summer Camp actually fits in with most university schedules. Camps wrap up by mid-to-late August, meaning you’ll be back in plenty of time for lectures starting in September or October.

Worried about graduation? Many students arrange to graduate in autumn instead — so you don’t have to choose between a degree ceremony and the best summer of your life.

“Shouldn’t I just get a job at home?”

Summer Camp gives you paid international experience that stands out on any CV

Of course, you could spend the summer working at your local café, shop, or office job… but will you really remember it in ten years’ time?

Summer Camp gives you paid international experience that stands out on any CV. Employers love the adaptability, teamwork, and resilience that camp staff naturally develop. And the memories of running activities on the lake, coaching sport, or leading campfire songs will beat stacking shelves any day.

“I don’t think I have the right skills”

Summer Camps need people with energy, enthusiasm, and a willingness to get stuck in.

Think again! Camps don’t just need pro athletes or expert artists — they need people with energy, enthusiasm, and a willingness to get stuck in.

Love football, swimming, drama, or crafts? Brilliant. Great with kids? Even better. And even if you’ve never coached before, you’ll get all the training and support you need. Chances are, you already have more to offer than you think.

Why summer camp is worth it

Every challenge you’re worried about is actually part of the adventure at an American Summer Camp

Every challenge you’re worried about is actually part of the adventure. You’ll learn more about yourself in nine weeks than you ever imagined possible. You’ll become more confident, more independent, and more open to new opportunities — skills that will shape your future career and your personal life.

The question isn’t “What’s stopping you?” anymore. The real question is: “Why wait?”