out in nature
Summer Jobs in Nature can and do change lives
By David Ritter
I have been in the camp industry for most of my life — from participating as a camper , and counselor , to owner and operator of my very own camp , to my present position at Bretton Woods as Director of Outdoor Education and Team Building . All I can say is I was lucky to have had a strong outdoor camp and school experience growing up . I had an idea that I wanted to provide this experience for others so I studied outdoor education in college . Every job I have had throughout my years has taught me different lessons that I carry with me today , especially my summer jobs in nature and the outdoors .
Summer jobs mean so much more than just pocket money . They are often the first introduction to the workforce for a teen or young adult . The joy of getting the job and the work ethic that is developed over time leads to a sense of purpose , not to mention opportunities to meet people of different ethnic , social , and cultural backgrounds . The process begins with learning how to write a resume and cover letter , and if you ’ re selected to move forward , the ability to tolerate the difficult feelings or anxiety that can come with an interview . If you get through all that , finally the fun ( and some more not-sofun ) stuff !
The transition from camper to camp counselor is something that I am passionate about . There are times when the assumption is made that being a camp counselor is just like being a camper ( except you are in charge ). However , it is an extremely difficult job . Managing logistics , heat index , rain , a wide range of camper skill levels , appeasing parent expectations and concerns , and working with different coworker personalities are just a few of the many additional responsibilities of being a camp counselor . There are valuable lessons to be had in learning how to be comfortable outside in all weather conditions with children . Some of those lessons include being assertive , communicating and resolving conflicts effectively , and hearing constructive feedback .
Learning some or all of these skills supports teens and young adults when they return to school , when they meet people in unfamiliar situations , when they are on a team , and certainly when they apply for future jobs . Summer jobs allow teens to demonstrate that they are responsible , reliable , and capable of applying new skills . Being in and working in nature builds confidence , work ethic , and self-esteem .
In my experience , the joy and camaraderie of being in the outdoors with like-minded individuals who are serving a greater purpose
Many teens are lured by the ease and entertainment of their devices these days . The dependence on cell phones concerns parents and employers and has caused a disconnect from the natural world around them . The opportunity to have a job in nature where it would be physically difficult to be on a device comes with many benefits , such as exercising more than just one ’ s thumbs .
is great competition to the lure of social media . Disconnecting from technology and social media for the workday or even weeks at a time in the field also allows staff to be more grounded and present in their jobs and relationships . Exposure to outdoor work ( and play ) allows us all to disconnect from our online presence and use that extra focus towards embracing healthy habits and strong values , or maybe even new goals or career paths .
Many of our staff have decided on or changed their anticipated career path after realizing their love for outdoor experiences and being part of a team that changes lives and respects the environment . Either from activities we do with our campers or just the time spent in the outdoors , these young adults learn about the many nature-based careers they can get into , besides just being a counselor . One ’ s interest in the plants and vegetation around them may spark a career interest in forestry , or horticulture . Another may have a great drive to
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