preserve all the amazing natural things they ’ ve learned so much from and then realize that there are many careers in environmental conservation , protection , and education . Youth jobs in nature can greatly shape one ’ s passions and ultimately influence career opportunities , and regardless of where a staff member decides to work afterwards , the lessons learned and confidence built will benefit them in numerous ways in their career of choice .
The connection to nature is something that cannot be dismissed . Research has shown that spending time outdoors helps people to think more clearly , lower anxiety , reduce stress , and strengthen health-based values . This may be the result of being a part of a community outside of one ’ s normal social surroundings . Friendships between campers can be lifelong even when summer camp may be the only time that they are together . This applies to staff friendships as well . Being able to share experiences outdoors without online disruptions and distractions , helps establish purpose and passion . Working in nature for nature ’ s sake is amazing . With support and guidance from leaders in the field , teens can flourish in the outdoor industry . I have seen the change in many staff over the years and am lucky enough to have kept in touch with many one-time staff members who have gone on to jobs that help the environment .
Following are what some of these folks have said about the benefits they experienced working outdoors .
Josh E ( Bretton Woods staff ): Working at camps with children of all ages gave me the compassion I needed to become a parent . When I facilitate outdoor programs , I become a co-teacher with nature .
Ben B ( long-time and part-time outdoor educator and leader ): It definitely changes a few mindsets with me and brought me a lot of refreshing positive energy working with people in the outdoors . I got inspired seeing people enjoy themselves in the natural world and it is making me consider following an outdoor career path .
Tim C : Working at an outdoor camp through summers in high school and college gave me skills , experiences , and knowledge that have all contributed to my formal education and career path . From soft skills like gaining confidence in public speaking from interacting with campers and their parents , to cooking for a crowd , and leading or being a team player as needed , to hard skills like a Class B CDL license to drive bus routes and Wilderness First Aid . I ’ ve had experiences to last a lifetime from making adventures in the place I call home a daily occurrence , to knowledge that things like a broken-down bus doesn ’ t ruin a day , to knowing that many of my former coworkers are friends for life and are just a phone call away .
I got my 4-year degree in forest management for my love of the outdoors and to work with likeminded people in the best office : outside . Camp was a big driver in my area of study . My first job after college was with the Maryland Forest Service ; it was a great experience and I worked with some fantastic people . I got exposed to wildland firefighting in a hardworking team environment and I saw some of the best parts of the country . I wanted to see more and moved out West , eventually landing at the Santa Fe National Forest in New Mexico . I was on a Type 4 wildland fire engine for three years ( utilizing my CDL from camp ) and later got a Prescribed Fire / Fuels Technician position where I ’ m able to combine my love of forestry and fire management into my everyday job . I know my current job was no accident and that many of the skills , experiences , and knowledge from camp helped get me here .
Christian C : There is something very primal that speaks to your base human nature that occurs when you work outdoors . You ’ re instantly connected with the centuries of humans before you who
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