Being a camp counselor is the dream job for anyone that ever went to overnight camp. I was fortunate enough to live that dream last summer working at Camp Chateaugay, where I went for seven years as a camper. Working 24/7 and living with 10-15 young kids does not appeal to everyone, but it did to me. Yes, it was tiring, but it was definitely one of the most rewarding summers.

Working at a summer camp teaches you a lot...

1. You will always be tired.

Having to wake up at 7 a.m. and then having to wake up 10 9-year-old girls is probably the worst way to start your day. Not only do these 9-year-olds not want to get out of bed, neither do you.

2. Your campers think you must have a boyfriend...or seven.

If seen exchanging a few words with a male counselor, you are dating. If seen sitting next to a male counselor in the dining hall, you definitely have feelings for him. If seen walking back from activities, you’re definitely in love.

3. Campers think they know everything.

The older campers think they know all of the counselor gossip, and all you can do is laugh. Even if they happen to be correct, don't give in to saying yes...because they will pry and pry and pry. If only they knew the real counselor gossip.

4. Campers want to be you.

You will hear your campers saying, "I saw my camp counselor wearing army pants and flip flops, so I wore army pants and flip flops.” You are their role model for the next seven weeks—expect to be followed. It's what you signed up for.

5. Always smile.

As simple as that sounds, a smile can go a long way. These kids are away from their parents and being around smiles makes them feel welcome. Happiness rubs off on others, so if you are happy, your campers will be happy. But that goes both ways, if a camper sees you unhappy... well you can guess what will happen.

6. Bribing is real.

Three words: candy is everything. Want a camper to do an extra cabin clean up? Candy. Need a camper to go get the mail? Candy. Need a camper to clear the table? Yeah—candy.

7. Do not accept campers on any social media.

Campers are better stalkers than you think. As soon as camp ends, you will have 100 new Instagram followers and 100 new Facebook friend requests. You wonder how they found you on every social media account? Who knows, but if you do accept them, make sure your posts are appropriate for camper's eyes. One thing is true though, they are reliable Instagram likers

8. At the end of the seven weeks, you will wonder where time went.