Lise with her favorite marine mammal, Shamu!It's been a great summer at Adventure Camp. Campers have enjoyed the animals and shows and the rides, but I think the one thing that has made it so good is the staff. I sat down with one of the resident camp counselors, Lise, to learn a little bit more about what a typical camp counselor is all about.
What made you apply to be a SeaWorld Camp Counselor?
I came to Career Camp while I was in high school and fell in love with it and knew the first day I was coming back for Advanced Careers Camp. During Advanced Camp, I talked with the camp supervisor about being a counselor. I knew it was something I wanted to pursue so I applied.
What's your favorite part of being a Camp Counselor?
I love kids. I think kids are so fun and educating children is a highlight to me. Seeing how they react when they see a killer whale for the first time or touching a beluga whale or shoveling snow next to penguins is such a rewarding experience. It's really awesome to be a part of inspiring them to want to have a career working with animals.
What do you do when camp is not going on?
I am a journalism major at the University of Idaho and spend a lot of time working, swimming and studying.
What's the one thing camp has taught you about yourself?
That no matter what happens, you have to laugh and find a positive side and make sure that you're still inspiring these kids and making sure they're all having a fun time.
Do you plan on staying with SeaWorld after college?
I think pursuing a career at SeaWorld is a dream of mine. I've enjoyed the time I've spent here and coming back to camp or working with animals would be nice.
What's your favorite things to do at SeaWorld?
Playing with dolphins at Dolphin Cove, taking campers back to touch and feed the stingrays at our Zoological Support Area and taking campers to the Summer Nights shows and having fun with them.
Lise is a fourth year counselor from Idaho. She has worked with both Expedition Camp and Careers Camp, as well as being a lead counselor for Careers Camp. She is currently the lead counselor for our Camper In Transition (CIT) program.
Thanks and Gig Em
Jack
