The American Village Experience

I had no idea what I wanted to do when I graduated Queen Mary University with a first class degree in English Language and Linguistics. I figured completing a TEFL course wouldn't hurt - and then I had to decide how I would utilise such a qualification. American Village were actually the first company I applied to. And I am so glad I did. I've met people I cherish fondly still, and experienced things I never believed possible.

Surmising my entire experience at camp is difficult. It's a true rollercoaster of emotions, there's moments filled with uncontrollable laughter, and there's times where you just want to break down and cry because it's suddenly got too much.

But it's okay, because you're surrounded by your other counselors, and they truly make the experience worth it.

Camp life is difficult, and the days are long. You won't be finished until gone 10pm most days. You also won't get a lot of free time. Or alone time. So, if you're someone who cherishes their privacy and requires solitude, I'd suggest American Village isn't for you.

My advice to anyone considering the program would be to stock up your knowledge of cheers and dances. Bring a towel. And if you really want to get fancy, bring your own blu-tack (it will inevitably run out).

If I had to choose one memory to encompass my experience, it would probably involve the many times I've dressed up as a goblin to scare children into cleaning their rooms.

And that's pretty tame, in all honesty.

If you're an enthusiastic, creative, fun-loving person, I'd say give it a go.

Camp life is far from perfect, but it's my kind of perfect.