In July 2007, I turned 8-years-old and went away to summer camp for the first time. Not for a week, not for two weeks, but for six. Before then, I had gone to day camps, but had never been away from home for more than a couple nights. Suffice it to say, I was very nervous. But I quickly fell in love with everything about overnight camp, even the mosquitoes, and I have returned each summer ever since. Throughout the years, camp has became a second home to me, and I’d like to think that I’m giving back to the next generation. This past summer was my first on the staff team, and it was an amazing experience. Here are 7 things that I have learned along the way.

1. How to get along with people.

Let’s face it, you’re not going to like each and every person in your cabin, campers and counselors alike. But sooner or later, you realize that there are only three days left in the session, and everyone’s laughing during mealtimes and talking during cabin time.

2. Try new things.

I’ve never been one to deviate from habit, even when there’s something new waiting for me. At my camp, I could’ve gone water skiing the summer I turned ten, after I reached the highest level swim band. But instead, I waited until my last year as a camper. I was so afraid that I wasn’t going to be able to stand up, or that people would judge me. I turned out being really good at it, and even if I hadn’t been, no one would bat an eye if I couldn’t stand up.

3. Make mistakes.

Camp is a place to learn about yourself and to make mistakes. It’s better to make mistakes in a safe place than it is in the real world, that’s for sure. Maybe you misgender someone, or you interrupt someone and a huge argument ensues. Take these mistakes to heart, and remember what you learned next time you’re having a similar conversation.

4. Be nice.

Plain and simple. You don’t know what people are going through, and unless someone wants to talk about it, chances are they are simply at camp to have a good time. Every kid deserves to have fun at summer camp regardless of outside factors such as gender identity, sexuality, class, race and background.

5. Be patient.

While most kids show up with a duffel bag and a sleeping bag, what every individual brings to the table is different. Recognize and understand that everyone comes from different backgrounds, and that it’s harder for some people to grasp certain concepts. If a kid is acting out, don’t automatically assume that they are doing it on purpose. The majority of the time, they either don’t understand their behavior and its effects, or they don’t know that their behavior is wrong.

6. We’re all human.

Everyone has bad days, and no one’s perfect. As much as a high-energy day is appreciated by campers and feels rewarding to staff, sometimes we just need to slow down a bit. Use your time off wisely, and make sure to care for yourself.

7. Appreciate the little things.

It sounds simple enough, but often times we get so caught up on logistics that we forget to enjoy the moment. The little things can make all the difference. Recognize when your campers laugh at your jokes. Take in the sunrise, sunset or the beauty of the night sky reflecting across the lake. Breathe in the smell of crisp pine, and savor the sweet tang of fresh summer blueberries.