When people talk about summer camp, the focus often lands on the campers—their experiences, growth, and joy. But what about the staff who make this all possible? As the Staff Engagement Coordinator for 6 Points Sci-Tech Academy, I’ve had the privilege of spending the past three summers and two years dedicated to supporting the incredible team that brings our camp to life. Often, campers—driven by our value of Curiosity—ask me, “What exactly do you do?”
To put it simply, I spend my time, year-round, thinking about the staff experience and recruiting wonderful individuals to join us at our three 6 Points camps. But when I dig a little deeper, I realize that my role is about more than just logistics. I help create the heartbeat of camp.
This summer at Sci-Tech, our staff come from 10 different countries to fill 28 unique positions, with 29 of our staff being former campers themselves. Our team is as diverse as the stars in the sky. We have experts in biology, robotics, and computer science, alongside social workers, Jewish educators, parents, and even professional photographers. Our staff includes passionate college students, individuals who have just completed their service in the IDF, and professionals who leave their full-time jobs to join us for the summer. One staff member is majoring in Political Science and loves playing frisbee, while another is pursuing a master’s in Astrophysics and has a soft spot for the Australian cartoon Bluey.
No two staff members are alike, yet they all come together to create the unique environment of our Jewish Science and Technology camp. For our staff, summer doesn’t begin when the campers arrive; it starts much earlier. The process begins as early as the summer before, when they fill out applications and go through interviews. They complete forms, paperwork, and make travel plans long before they set foot on camp. Once they arrive, they undergo an extensive training process that lasts an entire camp session—this is when our heart starts to beat.
The journey of our staff is one of dedication, passion, and hard work. It involves more than just their time at camp; it’s a year-round commitment to creating an incredible environment for our campers. The staff training process is designed to ensure that everyone is prepared not just for the logistical aspects of camp, but for the emotional and social elements as well. Our training emphasizes team building, communication, and the development of a supportive community. This way, when the campers arrive, they are welcomed into a warm and well-prepared environment.
Throughout the summer, our staff work tirelessly to make camp a magical place. They lead activities, mentor campers, and create an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and supported. They bring their unique skills and passions to their roles, enriching the camp experience for everyone involved. Our staff are role models, leaders, and friends to the campers, inspiring them to explore new interests, develop confidence, and embrace their Jewish identity.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is seeing the growth and development of our staff members. Many of them return year after year, evolving from campers to counselors to leadership roles. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness their journey and to know that I’ve played a part in their development. Our staff members are not just employees; they are an integral part of the camp community. They bring energy, creativity, and love to everything they do, and their impact is felt long after the summer ends.
At 6 Points Sci-Tech Academy, we are not just a camp; we are a community. Our staff are the heart and soul of this community, and their dedication and passion are what make camp truly special. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain committed to supporting our staff, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed, and celebrating their contributions. Together, we create a place where campers can thrive, discover their passions, and build lifelong memories.
So, the next time someone asks me what I do, I’ll proudly say that I help create the heartbeat of camp. And it’s a heartbeat that resonates with the laughter, learning, and love of every staff member and camper who joins us at 6 Points Sci-Tech Academy.
