Throughout the summers that I've been in high school and college, working many different jobs, I've always had a longing to work at a camp—preferably an overnight camp. Towards the end of this last the school year, I applied to a lot of different overnight camps, and was hopeful that I would be able to work at one. I also applied to a day camp at a church that I didn't think I was going to get—or wanted to get.

As the months went by, and I was involved in the application processes of all these camps, suddenly something weird started to happen: I lost the desire to work at any of the camps I applied to. Plus, I didn't get the job at most of them. So naturally, a little discouraged, I remembered that I had applied to work at a camp called Camp Vertical at Elmbrook Church in Brookfield, Wisconsin. I came home for Easter break and went to the church for an interview. I had no idea what to expect or what I was getting myself into, but the interview was great and I received the job a month later. I started work in the middle of June. I was excited because I realized that God wanted me to work at this camp the whole time.

I loved working at this camp for many reasons, but there are a few that especially stand out.

The Energy

There are about 400+ kids that come to camp each week, and when we are all in a large group worshiping or playing a morning game, the energy is amazing. I'm am a kid at heart, so I enjoy acting crazy and having a blast! I also love being excited about the work I'm doing and delight in seeing the kids be excited as well.

The Opportunities

There are many different activities you are involved in and numerous kids you get to know. It has been amazing interacting with these kids and talking about the Bible with them; though young, they are so intelligent. Many times when we were in small group talking about a Bible story, a kid asks me a question, and I find myself so joyful and surprised because I don't even know how to answer. It's amazing when you have the opportunity to share the gospel with them, especially when they accept Christ; those times being the most humbling moments of my entire life.

My Coworkers

In previous jobs, I have worked with cool people, but we have never hung out or talked outside of work. The staff I worked with at this camp, though, are amazing! They are life giving, kind, they love their work and support me in ways that I am so thankful for. We have only known each other for three months, yet I feel as though I have known them my whole life. I was nervous for this job, being the new guy on staff, but they loved and accepted me. If any of those people are reading this, thank you!