New Monster on the block!

[LittleMonster]

Hey people and fellow Monsters out there

I came up with this brilliant idea last week to expand my experience working with children and further prepare myself for work as a teacher by becoming a camp counselor! well... since I only came up with this idea last week I decided that I would give myself the next year to prepare myself for this journey. I just am not ready and no way could I get my stuff together to work at a camp this summer.

That being said... my name is Little Monster; I live in Michigan and I am working on my degree to become an elementary teacher. I will spend my free time next school year preparing myself for camp and making myself as marketable for a camp as I can.

So... I will be working on obtaining my archery Level 1 or 2 instructional certification. I will also try to get my rifle instructor certificate, but I am not sure about that, yet. I will be joining my colleges shooting team in any event. I also want to get my CDL-C (P) but... I have no idea how to go about that considering I do not own a 15 passenger van.

Anyone have further suggestions? I would love all the input I can get!

Anyways.... peace all... and have fun at camp this summer!

[Campy Measius]

Hey Little Monster,
It's wonderful that you are interested in working at camp.
What you're doing now seems like a great start.
In terms of new skills to learn... that really depends on the camp or type of camp where you hope to work.
Many camps require swimming certificates and as far as I know, all camps require first aid/CPR certification. It couldn't hurt to get a wilderness first aid cert as well.
Knot tying skills also come in very handy!

With that said, I think the most important quality that directors look for in a candidate is enthusiasm for the job. I've interviewed people who look great on paper, but just don't have the right attitude to actually work with the children.
Being a camp counselor means long days and nights, you play a very different role than you would as a babysitter, coach or teacher (although there are aspects of all of those roles in your relationship with campers).
So make sure that you are truly willing to give up your summer, and that you are there because you want to make a difference in a child's life - not just as a means to an end.

Good luck!

[Strand]

To get a CDL, talk to the local DMV. They should point you in the general direction of where the nearest courses are. Most technical colleges offer one, The same with motorcycle. The registration fee may cost you a pretty penny thou, but in the long run it makes you more marketable to future employers. It is also something I highly suggest you retake and renew. the same with CPR, and also Boating.