Finding Our Perfect Fit(s)

By Grace Gardner

With a few months under my belt as assistant director and my page-a-day calendar getting closer and closer to May 25th (the start of preseason), most of my to-do list is related to finalizing Ogichi’s staff team. In almost every interview, eager candidates ask me something to the effect of “What qualities make a good camp counselor?” and I smile knowingly. There is no simple answer; the reality is that at Ogichi, everyone has something to contribute.

As we piece together cabin assignments, trip routes, and what classes each staff member will be teaching this summer, we take into account the kaleidoscope of experiences everyone brings to camp. An art education major makes for a great Arts and Crafts department head; a survival skills instructor applies their skills in their new role as a trip head. When I look at the diversity of experiences on our staff roster this year, the unifying factor seems to be an eagerness to learn, and the willingness to sleep in a tent, of course!

One of the gifts of working at Ogichi is that even though our staff’s primary role is supporting the learning and growth of our campers, we all get to experience incredible personal learning and growth as well. Our staff training this year will cover everything from wilderness trip skills and camper safety to mental well-being and effective teaching methods, using our preseason time to get everyone on the same page. Returning and new-to-camp staff alike will have the opportunity to share their experiences, giving everyone the chance to find one’s fit at Ogichi.