Summer camp isn’t just for young kids. It’s an incredible opportunity for college-aged young adults to gain valuable skills, make lifelong memories, and immerse themselves in a close-knit community. If you’re a college student considering your summer plans, working at a traditional all-boys sports camp could be one of the most rewarding decisions you make. At Camp Winaukee, we focus on building a community rooted in sportsmanship, growth, and fun, and we’ve seen firsthand how these values shape our counselors as much as they do our campers.

Here are just a few reasons why working at summer camp is a transformative experience for young adults:

1. Develop Leadership and Responsibility

At camp, you’re not just a “staff member”—you’re a role model. As a counselor, you’ll be entrusted with the responsibility of guiding young campers through their activities, helping them grow, and ensuring their safety and well-being. This hands-on experience helps you develop critical leadership skills that will serve you in any career or life path. You’ll learn how to manage groups, resolve conflicts, and motivate others to achieve their best. These are the types of real-world, transferable skills employers are seeking, and there’s no better place to hone them than in a non-stop environment like camp.

2. Be Part of a Strong, Supportive Community

Working at camp means becoming part of a close-knit, like-minded team that shares the values of community, sportsmanship, and fun. You’ll spend your days working side-by-side with other passionate individuals who are committed to making the camp experience meaningful for the campers. The bonds you form with fellow counselors can be some of the strongest and most supportive relationships you’ll have, and these friendships often last long after the summer ends. You’ll learn the value of collaboration, how to lift others up, and how to contribute to something bigger than yourself.

3. Foster Growth—Both Your Own and Others’

There’s no better way to grow as an individual than by teaching and mentoring others. Working at Winaukee allows you to develop patience, empathy, and problem-solving skills as you help campers navigate challenges and learn new skills. As a counselor, you’ll see firsthand how impactful positive role models can be in shaping a young person’s life. In return, you’ll find yourself growing as well; learning new things about yourself, discovering your strengths, and gaining a deeper sense of purpose. Whether it’s guiding a camper through a tough sports competition or encouraging them to try something outside their comfort zone, the growth you experience is mutual.

4. Get a Break from Technology and Enjoy the Outdoors

Today’s world is dominated by screens, but summer camp offers an opportunity to unplug and reconnect with nature. Surrounded by beautiful landscapes and a host of outdoor activities, you’ll have the chance to enjoy fresh air, physical activity, and the joy of being in the moment. Spending your summer outdoors, whether on the lake or the sports field, offers a refreshing break from the digital distractions of modern life—and gives you a chance to be fully present with the campers and fellow staff members around you.

5. Make a Lasting Impact on Young Lives

One of the most rewarding aspects of working at camp is knowing that your efforts directly contribute to shaping the lives of young campers. By fostering a culture of sportsmanship, teamwork, and community, you’ll help campers build confidence, resilience, and respect for one another—values that will stay with them long after the summer is over. The impact you have on a child’s life, whether through encouraging them to improve in a sport or teaching them the importance of kindness, is something that will resonate for years to come.

6. Have Fun!

While working at camp is rewarding and offers countless opportunities for growth, it’s also a whole lot of fun! From lakefront activities to friendly sports competitions, camp is an environment where laughter, play, and excitement are a daily part of life. Working in a high-energy, positive atmosphere where you get to share in the joy of campers’ successes and adventures is incredibly fulfilling. After all, summer camp isn’t just about work—it’s about having fun, making memories, and creating moments of joy that will last a lifetime.

7. Build Your Resume and Stand Out to Future Employers

In today’s competitive job market, experience matters. Employers value candidates who have demonstrated leadership, problem-solving, and the ability to work in a team. Working at camp showcases your commitment to responsibility, your ability to thrive in a community environment, and your dedication to making a positive impact. Whether you’re interested in education, business, healthcare, or any number of fields, the skills you gain as a summer camp counselor will set you apart from other candidates.

At Camp Winaukee, we believe that summer camp isn’t just a place for kids to grow—it’s a place for young adults to do the same. As a counselor, you’ll find yourself in an environment that nurtures your leadership, encourages personal growth, and reminds you of the value of community and fun. If you’re ready for a summer that will challenge, inspire, and change you, we’d love for you to join our team. Come make a difference—and make memories that will last a lifetime!