DEAR FORMER STUDENTS ,
Thank you for your interest in joining the staff at Trefoil Academy! Transitioning from camper to staff is both exciting and challenging, but it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your camp journey. As a camper, your needs came first; as staff, the campers always come first. This means adapting to new situations—whether it’s scrapping a well-planned activity or going without some comforts. It’s all about being flexible and rising to the occasion.
Having observed this transition for years, I want to share some key insights:
Observation #1: Your Attitude is Your Strongest Tool
In any job, attitude matters more than skill.
If you focus on what’s ahead rather than what you’re leaving behind, you’ll thrive. This role requires a positive mindset and a willingness to embrace change.
Observation #2: Expect a Different Camp Experience
Becoming staff will change how you see camp, but in a way that deepens your appreciation.
If this idea gives you pause, it might mean you’re not quite ready to make the leap, and that’s okay—you can always remain a camper for another year. There are opportunities for campers to gain some leadership experience during the week. Please just reach out to me s we can set something up for you based on your interest. We also have a limited number of slots available in our new Leadership-In-Training (LIT) program. LIT participants are not staff members but rather are campers going through a week-long leadership course that focuses on developing key skills for becoming an effective leader.
Please note: You do not need to go through our LIT program first to become a staff member.
Observation #3: Giving Back is Noble, but the Experience is New
Many staff want to give back after receiving so much from camp, which is wonderful. Camp is constantly evolving, and no two camper experiences are alike in the same year. Your goal as staff is to create the best experience for the campers to fits our niche of creating a real-life video game, not to recreate your own.
Observation #4: This is a Paid Job For Individuals 16 Years and Older
While camp is fun and full of unique experiences, it’s important to remember that being a staff member is still a job. You’ll have real responsibilities, and the next generation of campers is relying on you to create a safe, engaging environment. Take it seriously.
This means fully and actively participating in the trainings so you’re prepared to hit the ground running. We do a lot of scenario work in the prep season, and you will be fully expected to take on the role of counselor early on so you can gain practice. It's important to recognize the difference between being unsafe and being uncomfortable. You’ll be pushed beyond your comfort zone, as that’s where real growth and learning happen.
This also means showing up on time, being prepared, following through on your responsibilities, and staying focused even when you’re tired or things don’t go as planned. This is very rewarding work. It’s also hard work that requires commitment, professionalism, follow-through and the ability to adapt quickly. You will make mistakes, and we call those required whoops. They are part of the learning process and we all make them. When you make them, and I guarantee that you will, we simply ask that you be accountable, help resolve anything that needs to be resolve, and then not dwell. The rest of us have already moved on.
Finally, remember that you are a role model. You are expected to uphold and enforce all of camp policies and rules at all times. These policies are in place to ensure everyone's safety and are what make our camp a safe, welcoming sanctuary for all.
Observation #5: Camp is for the Campers
As staff, it’s easy to get caught up in the behind-the-scenes work, but never forget—camp is for the campers. Stay flexible, focused, and appreciative of the opportunity to help create magic for them.
Observation #6: Expect to Be Challenged and to Grow
You’ll be pushed out of your comfort zone, whether it’s leading a dungeon crawl, role-playing, or presenting in front of a crowd. This growth will make you more confident and capable, and the experience is invaluable.
You must take advantage of the training in the prep season. Skills take time to learn, and you have so many resources available to you. Train early and train often is the best way to set yourself up for success. Do not wait until summer. Feedback is part of the learning process because we want you to succeed.
Camp is a place of constant learning, especially for the staff. The best staff members are those who stay eager to learn.
Observation #7: There are a Multitude of Roles at Camp
The idea that becoming a counselor is the only way to stay involved is a myth. There are many roles at camp, each with different challenges. Find the one that plays to your strengths. The right fit will keep you energized and driven.
Observation #8: Here is the Secret to Being Liked By Campers
Many first-time staff often worry about being liked by the campers and may feel tempted to be overly lenient, thinking it will win their favor. While this might give you a temporary boost in popularity, it won’t last, and you’ll lose the campers’ respect. Consistently enforcing the rules is key. Campers are here to have fun, and clear boundaries help them feel safe and secure.
You must be willing to actively engage with the campers.
Observation #9: What You Put Into This Experience is What You Will Get Out Of It.
Be ready to jump in and try new things—embrace adventure!
Avoid the habit of putting "the" before a staff member’s name. If you’re hired, they’ll be your colleagues. We all take turns leading and supporting one another regardless of our experience levels. Many hands lightens the load. Remember, we’re a team—it’s not about "I" but "we."
We are not our characters. Take the time and get to know all of your fellow staff. Do not put people up on pedestals. Doing so only invites them to fall. Like you, we are multi-dimensional. Getting to know everyone before camp will help increase your trust and lower your stress levels at camp.
Observation #10: Friendships Will Evolve
You will not be assigned to any age group that is less than <3 years from your own age. This puts in you in what we call the age of mentoring, which is a very powerful place to be.
You don’t have to give up your friendships with returning campers. You can go hang with them on your break. The dynamic will change though. This is healthy and natural. You will have access to information that must stay confidential. You will also know about all the surprises that lay in store. You don’t want to ruin of the magic of their camper experience. It doesn’t mean you cannot be friends.
We recommend having a heart-to-heart chat with your friends about these changes. Let them know that you are at work and ask for their support. Remember that true friendship is about mutual support.
Two Key Changes
As a former camper, you should be prepared for two key changes:
Change #1: Your House Assignment Will Change
As staff, you’ll be assigned to a house based on what you can contribute, not what the house can offer you. This fresh start will allow you to grow in new ways and bring your talents to a different part of the camp community. Embrace it! Get involved in your new house, wear your house colors proudly, and keep an open mind.
Change #2: Once You’re Staff, You Can’t Go Back to Being a Camper
Once you’ve taken staff training, you won’t be eligible to return as a camper. This is for several reasons, including risk management and the difficulty of switching roles. Instead, focus on making the most of your new role and continue building your skills as a leader.
If you’re not selected as staff, you can always reapply or continue attending as a camper until you're ready for the leap.
Thank you for reading. If you have any questions, please reach out. I look forward to seeing you soon—whether as a staff member, alumni, or student!
All the best,
Ash
Trefoil Academy Director