Open Letters: Letter 2

By Camp America on 10/03/2021

Inspired by Giovanna Fletcher, 'if you could write a letter to anyone, who would it be to, what would you say and when would you send it?'. This letter is written from an American camp counsellor, writing to their future international camp 'bestie'.

Dear Arianna, 

First, I feel like I need to thank you for giving up a summer away from your home to come work with total strangers at summer camp. I can’t even imagine the nervousness, but let me assure you, this will be a decision that you won’t regret. This is not a job, but an experience to be a positive influence in the lives of children & get away from life’s craziness in the great outdoors. Plus, camp staffs always become families and I can’t wait to welcome you to ours!

I grew up going to this camp that will soon be your home away from home. And as a counselor it still holds a special place in my heart, just as it did after my first week going as a 10-year old. Camp is a magical place filled with yelling and laughter, sweet campfire moments, crazy meals, wonderful adventures, and most importantly people who accept you as you are (tye-dye shirt, lack of shower, and all). Just imagine the times you and I are going to dance together on the pool deck, start songs in the middle of meals, and match outfits complete with colorful rain boots. You’ll be amazed at how we go from strangers to friends in weeks. To be honest I’ll know you better than some friends I’ve had for years.

In addition to being an all around amazing counselor; you’ll bring extra smiles and laughs to campers and staff alike with your international perspective! Be prepared for countless kids asking you to say things with your accent, say things with an American accent, teach them how to talk like you, and a personal favorite; explain all about your very personal relationship with the queen! The staff enjoy hearing all the word differences and crack up hearing things like ice lolly, sun cream, and rubbish bin. May sound strange, but just wait, I can guarantee it will happen to you at least once (a day lol). But in all seriousness, you help bring culture to our campers and add to the magic of camp by sharing your songs, childhood games, activities, etc. that we aren’t familiar with in the states. Without internationals I wouldn’t know about the game ladders or the joys of Dairy Milk Oreo! I’ll be sure to share with you too! I’ll take you to see some baseball games, teach you to love my favorite college (uni) football team, and share the wonder of cinnamon rolls from a tube... just trust me on that, know it sounds odd.

So remember to live it up this summer. Time at camp flies by and the memories we’ll make will be looked back on with fondness for years to come. Don’t worry though, we’ll keep in touch! I see many letters and video chats in our future, & maybe even some more summers spent at our favorite place. You’ll stand beside me at my wedding and be the first person I visit when I finally make a trip across the pond! As we sing on the last night with all our campers, “a circle’s round, it has no end, that’s how long I want to be your friend! 

With love, a future American bestie,

Elizabeth