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Colm
Camp: Camp Walden NY
2022-2026
Camp Years
Camp Expert
Current Job
Camp Walden NY
Camp
Why did you choose to do Camp America?
I grew up hearing stories about how incredible Camp America is from my Dad, Uncle and Cousin who all did the program back in the day. They all chose Camp America as their agency because CA are the originals and the best in the business. They went to Camp Universe FL, Camp Wekeela ME and Camp Fitch PA respectively. It just sounded like the best thing ever so I always knew I was going to do it someday. Unfortunately COVID prevented me from going in 2020 and 2021 for what would have been my first 2 summers, so it was a big decision to finally go in 2022. I had just graduated from University and was meant to be starting my career however I was determined to squeeze 1 summer in before cracking on with the rest of my life. Little did I know that summer would completely change my life. Five years later I am the Athletic Director of one of the best camps in the world. I cannot thank everyone at Camp America enough for making it all possible.

Favourite summer camp memory?
I don't think I could narrow it down to just one, from the crazy fireworks displays and Pep-fests to the late night campfire conversations they are all incredible. Overall I guess I would say that it is the people you meet at camp, that is the thing that makes it so special. People from all over the world come together at camp to form such a unique community where you make some of the best memories of your life. Then when you leave you have little pieces of your heart all over the world. It is also the impact that everyone has on each other, counsellors and campers alike. Everyone leaves a better person than when they arrived.

What did summer camp teach you?
The importance of enjoying the journey, that's where growth happens and memories are made. People get so caught up, especially nowadays, in worrying about and trying to plan for the future that they end up missing some of the greatest moments of their life. Camp has taught me the power and value in slowing down, taking a deep breath and really being present to make the most of everything that life throws at you.

A piece of advice...
Go for it. Say yes to everything. Grab every opportunity with both hands - I promise you will not regret it. Simple as that.