If you’re thinking about working at a Summer Camp in the USA but are hesitant, we understand! Deciding whether or not to come to the USA on a J-1 visa is a BIG deal! Although there are many, many reasons, We’ve put together a list of what we feel are the top 5 reasons to work at Summer Camp in the USA!
- It’s great experience for your CV
In general, having work experience in a different country is a great attribute for your CV. Working overseas at a camp, however, is something that will make your application stand out in a crowd! Working at camp requires flexibility, dedication, and imagination, among many other things. Having camp experience on your resume will show future employers an array of your skills as a potential employee. Read our blog here to find out how to write about camp on your CV!
- Unplug for the summer
As time goes on and technology continues to progress, more students and workers spend the majority of their day behind a screen. While computers, phones, tablets, and new technologies are an integral part of modern life, sometimes it’s nice to unplug! Working at camp gives you an opportunity to turn off your phone, and truly enjoy a summer outdoors. Many summer camps in the US are in beautiful locations, and you’ll have a chance to enjoy the sun, mountains, oceans, or lakes- with no wifi connection. Camp is an amazing time to make real, genuine connections and friendships, face to face!
- Learn about another country and culture
One of the best ways to learn about a new culture is to live it. Working at a US summer camp means that you will be living and working beside American staff and campers for the summer. This is a truly once in a lifetime opportunity to fully immerse yourself in a new culture! I can think of no better place for a 4th of July BBQ than at camp!
- Improve your English
If English is not your native language, working at camp will be the equivalent of a fully immersive language program- but much more fun! While you do not need to be completely fluent in English to work at camp, you do need to feel comfortable living and working in an English-speaking environment and have enough language skills to accomplish this. Many of our applicants tell us that by the end of the summer, their English has greatly improved after practicing every single day!
If English 
IS your first language, this is a great opportunity to work with other international staff who are learning English. There are two sides to a language barrier, and there is something very satisfying about helping a coworker with their English, if they ask for feedback. Learning to communicate with someone who does not speak your language is an invaluable skill to have, and one that can be learned at camp!
- And most importantly, it’s FUN!
Camp is SO MUCH FUN. If you are looking to have a fun, new experience this summer, working at a camp could be the adventure you have been looking for! Imagine spending your summer outdoors, working with amazing kids, playing games, going on adventures, and relaxing around a campfire. It doesn’t get much better than summer camp!
Click here to learn more about IENA’s summer camp program! 🙂