How to Get the Job: Questions & Answers with a Camp Director

What qualities do you look for in an applicant?
With the initial screening, we look through the applications and look for experience if the position requires it, but just because you aren’t experienced doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply!

If your resume is neat and error-free, we’ll give it a second look.

If you aren’t required to submit a resume, we want to see an application that is fully filled out.

How important is the interview?
Some people think that because it is “only” a summer job, we’ll just give it to whoever, but that’s not true! The interview is very, very, very important.

What makes a good interview?
Personality! You’ll be working with children, so if I don’t think my kids would get along with you, I probably won’t hire you. That doesn’t mean you have to be over-the-top, but don’t look mean! Smile a lot and prove to me that you’ll be a good role model.

How do you decide between two really good applicants?
Sometimes it’s hard. What it comes down to a lot of the time is who I think will be the most unique in the job, especially when it comes to camp counselors. There are a million college kids wanting jobs, and they’re all the same a lot of the time. That doesn’t mean they aren’t qualified and good with kids, but I want someone who the kids will love and want to come back to see every year. Oh, if you seem like you’ll be returning again, you have a better chance at getting the job.

What kills an interviewee’s chances?
Being boring. Giving me generic answers to my questions. If I ask you why you want the job, don’t say that it “seems like an exciting opportunity to having fun at a summer job.” I’ve heard that before, and it doesn’t mean anything except that you’re trying to sound good. Tell me the truth. Tell me that you were a camper as a child or that you want a job where you can work outdoors or whatever is the truth. Don’t lie.