Working at Camp is Not “Work”

My name is Chelsie. I am 24 years old and I am from a small town in Nova Scotia, Canada. I come from a large family with three sisters, two who are younger and one older, and a cat. One of my younger sisters (Candice) has also spent the past two summers working at HCDC. When I’m not working, you can usually find me at the gym working out, at the beach or hanging out with friends.

I also really enjoy traveling which we could say is what brought me to East Hampton, NY in the first place. I’ve traveled to the Dominican Republic on a family vacation, Cuba with friends, I’ve traveled across Canada, and traveled to Cuernavaca, Mexico to build houses for those who are not as fortunate as others.

I graduated with a psychology degree in 2011 and this past May I completed my Bachelor of Education. After camp this summer, I made a big decision to move to the UAE in the Middle East. I am now teaching grade 4 in Abu Dhabi and so far I’m loving every minute of it.

However, as good as it is here I would be lying if I said that I’m not missing everything about camp. I’ve been a lifeguard and swim instructor at HCDC for the past three summers. I heard about camp from some friends at my university who made it sound amazing, and it is just EXACTLY that! Although I’ve had many experiences through out my life, camp is still at the top of my list. There is no better feeling than seeing the kids at HCDC smile, succeed, meet new friends and look up to their counselors as role models. It is a great feeling when you return year after year and the same kids remember everything about you. There is nothing better than having a child in my swim group who will not dare get in the pool in the beginning of the summer, but then who will not get out of the pool by the end of the summer!

All of my positive experiences at camp have truly changed me. It has helped me to overcome my shy personality, as well as aided me in becoming a better team player. I have met so many friends over the past three years that I have stayed in touch with, some of which I would consider my best friends. Being surrounded with so many new faces and by such a large group of amazing people has helped me fine tune my interpersonal skills such as communication, patience and compassion. Living in another country has helped me with my independence and confidence. And finally it has broadened my horizons and inspired me to travel and see more of the world.

I am really hoping to return to HCDC next summer however, I must wait and see where this year will bring me. Without HCDC staff and campers there will be a part of me missing. I do not consider working at HCDC work… It is nothing but fun and every day is a GREAT SO GREAT day!