Imagine, you have dreams of being a camp counselor. It is your dream job! You’ve already filled out an application and set up a time to do an interview. You may be feeling nervous, it could be your first interview ever. Let me start by saying this, choosing to work at a camp is a noble decision. You are choosing to give up your summer, not for personal gain, but for the kids, and to have long-lasting memories. You Are Qualified.

As someone who does interviews for camp counselors, there are three things that I have noticed in candidates that make them stand out above others. Here are three interview tips you should know!

Be Authentically You!

The interviewer wants to get to know who you are! They want to know what makes you, you! Your likes and interests, what motivates you, how you recharge, and your involvement. Don’t be afraid to share everything about you! They want to see your face light up about things you enjoy! Share what makes camp so special to you, and why you applied in the first place. The interviewer wants to know if you will be a good fit for their summer team.

Be For the Kids!

Camp is all about the kids! Share how much you love being around kids, teaching kids, and being a mentor for them. If you have a camp counselor who made an impact in your life, SHARE IT! If you’ve never officially worked with kids. Don’t fret, share with them what you hope to learn by working with kids. Share how important safety is for you! The interviewer has to get a sense that you will keep campers safe. 

Have a Goal!

Go into the interview with a goal in mind! You will likely get asked the question, “Why do you want to be a camp counselor?” Just because being a camp counselor is your dream job doesn’t mean much to someone interviewing you. What will make you stand out from others is the “why,” behind it. Do you want to give back to the next campers? Be that counselor for others that you had growing up. If it is a faith-based camp, is there something you want to introduce them to? Have a goal for the summer!

If you walk into an interview being authentically you, being for the kids, and having a goal, you will stand out as an applicant! Most importantly though, if hired, stick to what you said in that interview! Campers always gravitate towards counselors who are genuine and give them the attention that they are longing for.