Meet Arieal Sage: The ITC student currently working at Camp America!
Arieal onsite at Camp America!
Many of our ITC students dream of graduating and heading overseas for work experience – and fun. Arieal Sage has achieved just that, with a successful application to Camp America thanks to one of our international exchange programs.
We chatted to Arieal to ask about how the application process worked, how she got accepted, tips for current ITC students hoping to get into the program, and how it’s all going so far!
What made you want to apply for Camp America?
When my level 4 course at ITC Botany was coming to an end, I was looking for my next adventure. I had plans to go into the airline industry but at the time there was no demand for cabin crew. Remembering the presentation from IWH about Camp America I decided to apply. I was always interested in international travel and working with kids; this was the perfect place to start.
How did ITC help support you to get to this overseas experience?
ITC directed me to IWH and helped me through my interviews. They supported me by providing resources and practice interviews. They continued to support me while I was overseas. ITC will always be there to help.
What was the application process like? What tips do you have for those keen on applying?
The application process within the Camp America organisation was very easy. They supported me throughout the way. Their website showcases the application steps and payments. Once your application is completed your profile goes live onto their website; where the camps can view what you have to offer. If you are looking to work at a summer camp I would suggest researching what you would be interested in teaching, even if you haven’t done it before; do short courses that can support these areas of work. The more skills and experience you have the more choices of jobs you can choose from.
Some other tips to consider when applying and/or accepting camp offers; is to research what camp you would be comfortable working at eg. Co-ed, single gender, religious or not. I would also suggest researching the climate area before accepting a camp’s offer.
Tell us what induction or the first few days was like?
For my camp we had around a week 1/2 with just the counsellors before the kids arrived. The first few days were filled with making connections, smores by the fire pit and a lot of singing and dancing. With the fun we also learnt new skills to support us as counsellors, you will never be in the dark at camp! Provided with seminars and presentations we built a great foundation for all our campers.
What is your highlight of your exchange so far?
I am currently finishing session 1 at my camp, so far my highlights are our field trips; we have gone Bowling, to Water Wizz, Canobie Park, and Lemon Squeezer Caves so far! I also love all the camp traditions and activities. Like College night, Colour War and Mestival. It was also amazing to experience the 4th of July here in America.
What are some of the challenges you face?
There are a lot of challenges at camp, everyone faces them at some point which also means that there is always someone here to help you. The support system at camp is magical. Some of my personal challenges are the time difference and contacting family and friends. Camp is a fast-paced environment and there are some days you may not get any alone time, being patient with everyone and yourself is key to success at camp.
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day for me at camp is 8am wake up, flag raising 8:20am, breakfast followed by cleaning hour. On a normal day at camp we have 6 periods to teach unless you are a general councillor.
I teach Athletics at my camp. Each period is 45 minutes; three in a row then lunch time! Before the three last periods we have a rest hour. Shower hour, flag lowering, dinner and then evening activity. Working in the Athletics department can be challenging at times, especially during the very hot sunny days that can get up to 32 degrees. My camp offers a wide range of sports and activities for the kids, some include; tennis, volleyball, soft/baseball, yoga, running, soccer etc. This obviously changes depending on what camp you work at, but most camps have a similar structure.
You will always have time off as well! Days off can include exploring the area and cities around you. Hours off will allow you to catch up on alone time and hanging out with friends from camp.
Do you have any advice for anyone looking at working at Camp America?
Give yourself enough time to prepare properly. Having an open mind will help a lot. Just do it!
Thinking of following in Arieal’s footsteps?
Arieal isn’t the first ITC graduate to head overseas on such an incredible experience, and she won’t be the last – will you be the next?
Our team supports many students through the application process, and it’s always exciting to see these students go on to other fantastic roles in travel and tourism after their experience. If you’ve got questions about studying at ITC or working your way towards one of these roles, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us here to learn more.
Posted in News, Student success | Tagged Camp America, Overseas Experience, Student interview, Working Holiday | Leave a reply