For quite a few years, YMCA Camp Ockanickon, Inc. has been hiring international staff to work in all three of its summer camps. For some, it is their first time in America and even their first time at a camp while others are returning for another fun filled summer. Even Matolly’s camp director, Gab Ostroski, started out as an international staff member back in 2000 when she arrived from Australia! This summer, we will have a diverse international staff from a variety of countries and cultures including but not limited to Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, and the United Kingdom!  I went around and asked some of them these questions and here is a compilation of their answers:

Q. What were your first thoughts upon arriving in America?

A. Really tired after all of the traveling, but the people seem really polite!

 

Q. What is the biggest difference between countries you have noticed while being here?

A. The food and the language is very different. With the language, it is just how things are said like how football is soccer and chips are actually french fries. It can be confusing at times.

 

Q. What was your first thought upon arriving at camp?

A. It was really beautiful with the all the trees and the big lake. It also reminded me of the movie Parent Trap, but one of my thoughts was “what have I gotten myself into?”

 

Q. What are you excited for this summer?

A. I’m excited to be working in a new role this summer and learning new skills. I’m really excited that I get to work with children and overall I am excited to experience American culture.

 

Q. What has camp done to help you with the transition?

A. When I first arrived at lifeguard training I met Kris Parker. He said “just wait, in two weeks we’ll be best friends” and he was right! The people at camp really helped with the transition and they make it a great experience.

 

Q. What do you hope to get from camp by the end of the summer?

A. I’m hoping to experience a cultural change, but I am looking to gain more confidence. Normally, I am only shy when I am with large groups, but I am hoping to be more social in that respect.

For this last question, I had a few great responses so I put down multiple answers!

Q. Why did you come to camp this summer?

A. I wanted to do something different this summer. I wanted to have a fun experience where I could also see a different culture.

A. Winter is cold and this is the greatest place on Earth!

 

Bringing in international staff provides a two way road for learning. While they get to experience American culture, the campers and other staff are able to get a glimpse into their countries’ respective cultures. This diversity allows for others to have a greater understanding of the world!

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