The directors and staff at Camp North Star are excited to welcome all the new campers that will be joining us this summer in Poland Spring, Maine. Our returning campers enjoy playing the role of “ambassador” to properly welcome and make the new campers feel at home and part of our North Star family. We know some new campers feel anxious and nervous as the prepare for their first summer under the pines. They may be wondering…how will I make new friends?…what is the food like?…will I like my counselors?…what are the best activities to choose?
These are all typical questions that many of our new campers have . The North Star Family Handbook and our Camper to Camper program help answer these questions prior to the camp season. Some of the best guidance comes directly from veteran campers. Here’s their advice for first time campers.
“At North Star, everyone is your friend and everyone is so easy to talk to. My first summer I was nervous I wouldn’t make any friends, but the second I walked into my cabin I was greeted with hugs from people I’ve never met and they have become my best friends.” Hailey J.
“Get excited! Having spirit and loving and enjoying every moment is such a huge part of camp and if you don’t lose your voice at least once while you’re there, you’re not doing it right! Being passionate and excited about camp is something I’m not afraid to show, in fact, I embrace it!” Emma O.
“My first year, I remember being very nervous due to my age (16 years old) and I was nervous that everyone would already have a certain “friend group.” I was definitely wrong. Camp North Star made me feel welcomed right when I got there. To have the best time at camp and for you to be prepared I suggest coming into camp with a positive attitude.” Madison M.
“Be yourself. The community here is very accepting, and I promise that 100%. Just be prepared, the summer of your life is right ahead of you. As the saying ’round here goes – Camp is more than a place, it’s a feeling.” Zach B.
“Don’t be afraid to go to your counselors about any problems or questions, because most likely they’ve been through the same situation.” Sarah N.
“Be sure to follow the packing list. The list is very accurate! You do not need to bring anything extra. Trust me, I over packed my first summer and brought all the extras home untouched.” Jade M.
“Don’t forget to pack bug spray and sunscreen because you’ll need both.” Natalia R.
North Star’s Camper to Camper program connects first time campers with returning campers like these prior to the camp season. They talk on the phone, develop a friendship before the summer starts and the first time camper has all their questions answered. In our next blog, we’ll have advice from current North Star staff who are former campers.