If I could go back and talk to my younger camper self, the girl nervously standing by the bus, oversized duffel bag in hand, trying to act like she wasn’t freaking out, I know exactly what I’d say.
I’d tell her: you’re going to be okay. In fact, you’re going to be better than okay. You’re about to step into something that will change your life in all the best ways.
But I get it. Camp feels big at first. New faces, new routines, a whole new world. So, I’d start by saying: don’t try to figure it all out in the first hour. Let it unfold. Take a deep breath, unpack at your own pace (or your counselor’s pace), and give yourself permission to feel all the feelings- yes, even the homesick ones.
I’d remind her that camp isn’t about being perfect, it’s about becoming. Becoming braver, more independent, and more yourself than you ever thought you could be. It’s about learning how to live with others, laugh at yourself, and find joy in the little things, like spontaneous dance parties on the tennis courts or finishing your first friendship bracelet without it getting completely tangled.
I’d tell her to lean into the awkward moments, because they’re usually the start of great friendships. To try new things even when they’re scary, like the ropes course (despite your fear of heights). And to definitely dress up for the themed days, even if she thinks she’ll look ridiculous (spoiler alert: everyone else is doing it too, and its way more fun that way).
And if I could whisper one more thing to that younger version of me, it would be: you belong here. Even if it takes a few days to feel it, you will. Because camp is made up of real people, real friendships, and real memories that stay with you long after the summer ends.
Now, years later, as a soon-to-be college freshman, I look back and realize how much camp gave me. Confidence. Resilience. Lifelong friends. A place where I could truly grow up.
So, to the parents reading this, thank you for giving your child this experience. And to the campers just starting, trust the process. Let camp shape you. And someday, you’ll look back and realize it was one of the best gifts you’ve ever been given.
With love and bug spray,
Your future self
About the contributor:
Izzy Josephs worked with us this Spring as a Senior Options Intern from Scarsdale High School. She spent nine summers at Camp Canadensis, one on a Teen Tour to Greece + Italy, and one as a Scarsdale Rec Camp Counselor. Her favorite memories of those summers were making connections to people with different backgrounds and experiences. This fall, she is so excited to be heading off to the University of Michigan to study Sports Management. We are cheering her on every step of the way!