Everyday Challenges You May Face at Camp

We are confident you will have a great time at camp! However, you will be in a new country and in a new environment; challenges such as homesickness or culture shock may arise. The good news is that most challenges have a solution:

Homesickness

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Solution:

Speak with your camp director or manager. They know and understand that camp counselors (and campers, for that matter!) may experience homesickness – even when they are having a great time at camp!

Issues with my campers (such as behavioral problems)

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Solution:

Speak with your co-counselor(s) or camp director immediately. Camps understand that caring for children that are not your own can be challenging; they are there to support you every step of the way.

Issues with my co-counselors

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Solution:

Ask your camp director to have a private chat right away. They are experienced in helping counselors work through their differences.

Getting sick or injured

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Solution:

Visit the camp nurse or doctor, as they can usually handle minor illnesses or injuries. If you need further treatment, contact CIEE. We can help you find a doctor that accepts your CIEE insurance plan.

Culture shock

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Solution:

Adjusting to life in the U.S. can be tough. Discuss issues with your camp director. You may also want to speak with another international counselor, who may be experiencing the same issue. If you need additional support, call CIEE. We are always here to help!

Contacting friends and family back home

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Solution:

Phone service and internet are not always readily available at camp. If you need to contact someone back home, speak with your camp director. They will help you find an appropriate time to use the camp’s office phone or a staff computer.

Adjusting to your environment

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Solution:

The weather, animals, and lodging at camp might not be what you are used to. Seek out the advice of veteran staff; anyone who has worked there before is sure to have helpful tips!

IMPORTANT REMINDER: You can contact CIEE’s support staff any time at 1.888.268.6245.