Summer Camp Stories: Bethanie's Experience

Bethanie, a Junior Sales Advisor for Camp Leaders, is someone who knows summer camp well having been a Culinary Arts Director at camp and having done three summers.

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She knows the type of magic that summer camp can cook up over the summer, so here’s her experience giving you a taste of what you’re in store for.

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What summer camp did you go to?

"I went to YMCA Camp Becket, which is based in Massachusetts.

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Most would fly into Boston and then it’s a 2-3 hours from there."

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When did you go to YMCA Camp Becket?

"I went to YMCA Camp Becket in 2019 (thankfully the summer before Covid stopped everything!), and then again in 2022 and 2023."

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What job role did you do at YMCA Camp Becket?

"I was the Culinary Arts Director, which was a job I absolutely loved."

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

"I was really excited about heading out to camp, so the nerves didn't set in until I was on the plane.

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But THEN, I realised I'd be away from my family and friends for over 2 months...

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It was also my birthday the day I arrived at camp, so was a little upsetting to not be with my family for it, and that’s all part of the adjustment you have to get over.

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Everyone will get homesick at one point, but it can feel more on days like that (even though I ended up loving it)."

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What is your favourite summer camp memory?

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"Every Sunday my camp does Chapel, which isn't religious at all.

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It's more of a reflection on life outside camp.

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During summer 2022 I was chosen to speak at the first chapel of the summer, which was a big thing and made an impact on me."

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

"That you'll end up with friend all over the world and will have to navigate multiple time zones just to speak to them!"

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

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"Don't take anything too seriously.

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If you're asked to dress up for a camp activity; DO IT!

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The sillier you are, the more the campers love you!"

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