Curious about what it’s really like to work at an American summer camp?
As a Chinese college student preparing to join the Camp Counselor USA Program, you might be wondering:
“What will my daily life be like?”
“Will I be too busy? Too tired?”
“Is it more like work or fun?”
The truth is: being a camp counselor is a mix of both. You’ll be busy, but in the best way possible.
Let’s walk you through a typical day in the life of a counselor named Leo, a 21-year-old university student from Guangzhou who spent his summer at a camp in Pennsylvania.
7:00 AM – Wake-Up Call
The sun is rising, birds are singing, and the cabin is slowly waking up.
Leo quickly brushes his teeth, puts on his counselor T-shirt, and checks on the kids.
Some campers are already up, some still snoring. He gently wakes them with a smile:
“Rise and shine, let’s get ready for a great day!”
8:00 AM – Breakfast
At the dining hall, it’s noisy and cheerful.
Pancakes, eggs, cereal, and juice fill the tables.
Leo eats with his cabin group, makes jokes, and reminds the kids about today’s schedule.
9:00 AM – Activity #1: Archery
Leo helps the kids line up at the archery range.
He demonstrates how to hold the bow, helps with safety rules, and cheers when someone hits the target.
He doesn’t just teach—he motivates.
10:30 AM – Activity #2: Arts & Crafts
Time to relax indoors and get creative!
The campers make friendship bracelets while Leo walks around, giving suggestions and helping tie knots.
A girl from his cabin makes a bracelet for him.
“Thanks, counselor Leo!”
12:00 PM – Lunch & Rest
Everyone heads back to the dining hall.
After lunch, it’s “rest hour.” The campers write letters home, read books, or nap.
Leo uses this quiet time to write in his camp journal or talk with co-counselors about the afternoon plan.
2:00 PM – Water Time!
It’s hot outside—perfect for swimming!
Leo grabs his whistle and heads to the pool, where he’s on lifeguard duty.
He watches closely to keep kids safe, but also plays and splashes with them when off duty.
4:00 PM – Sports & Games
Next is a round of soccer on the field.
Leo organizes teams, explains the rules, and acts as referee.
When one camper gets upset, Leo helps calm him down and teaches him about teamwork and fair play.
6:00 PM – Dinner
After an action-packed afternoon, everyone’s hungry again.
At dinner, there’s burgers, salad, and brownies.
Leo leads his group in a fun mealtime song—a camp tradition that always brings laughter.
7:30 PM – Campfire Night
It’s the highlight of the day.
The whole camp gathers around a big fire, singing songs, roasting marshmallows, and sharing stories.
Leo even leads a silly skit with other counselors—making the kids laugh until their stomachs hurt.
In that moment, he forgets it’s work. It feels like home.
9:30 PM – Lights Out
Back in the cabin, Leo helps the kids brush teeth and get into sleeping bags.
He tells a short bedtime story, turns off the lights, and says:
“Good night, team. Proud of you today.”
When the cabin is finally quiet, he takes a deep breath. Tired—but happy.
Final Thoughts
That’s a typical day as a camp counselor—busy, rewarding, challenging, and unforgettable.
You’ll:
Play hard
Work with heart
Laugh often
Learn about yourself and the world
And you won’t be alone. Our agency will guide you from application to arrival, ensuring you’re fully prepared for this incredible experience.
Want to spend your summer just like Leo?
Apply now to join Camp Counselor USA—your American summer starts here.
