Summer Camp Stories: Sian's Experience

Sian is a Program Coordinator for Camp Leaders, and first went to summer camp in 2015. She's one of the Australia & New Zealand experts on having a summer of a lifetime, so you'll want to hear their story!

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What summer camp did you go to?

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"I went to YMCA Camp Jones Gulch, which is in La Honda, California. It’s the Santa Cruz Mountains area of the San Francisco Bay."

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When did you go to YMCA Camp Jones Gulch?

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"My first year heading to camp was 2015."

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What job role did you do at YMCA Camp Jones Gulch?

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"I was a Horse Riding Instructor!"

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Before you flew out to camp for the first time, how were you feeling?

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"I felt a range of emotions during the lead up to my first summer! I was scared to travel alone for the first time, and sad to be leaving my family and friends at home.

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However, our camp had hired a lot of counselors from New Zealand and Australia - we were able to connect before the summer which made it easier.

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I happened to be on the same flight as another girl from New Zealand who was going to my camp, we bumped into each other in the airport bathroom - and now 9 years later she was the Maid of Honour at my wedding!"

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What is your favourite summer camp memory?

"It's impossible to choose just one memory! Having spent five summers at camp, I would have definitely have favourite days of the season.

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Friday morning dance parties in the dining hall after breakfast, the whole camp would sing and dance together.

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The first drop off day of the season, seeing all of the returning campers and their families - and seeing how much the kids had grown since the previous year.

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Our closing staff campfire was always an emotional one, it was such a mix of joy for the amazing summer we had just had, and sadness that it was all over."

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What's one thing they don't tell you about summer camp?

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"They don't tell you how hard it is to leave, and how much you will miss it when it's over.

The post camp blues are real!"

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What's your advice to those going to camp for the first time?

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"Be your authentic self! Camp is the most accepting community, everyone is there to learn and grow and encourage each other to do the same.

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By being yourself you are showing the campers they are safe to do the same. Step out of your comfort zone, and challenge yourself to try new things - you will feel better for it."

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