A SUMMER OF FIRSTS

For nearly two years, not a week has gone by without a “first” something. The first town permit, the first foundation being poured, the first camper enrolled, the first counselor hired, the first camper meet-up. It has been one milestone after another.

But now, finally, it is time for our firsts to end and for our campers to begin.

One of our four rings is “Grow Every Day,” a constant reminder to take advantage of all the opportunities that exist at Somerset. Growth at camp can come in the form of new relationships, skill development, resilience, self-awareness, respect for others, and so much more.

And much of this growth can be achieved by not only seeking out but by also embracing the many first-ever experiences that camp offers…being away from home, living in a shared space, sleeping outside, waterskiing, whitewater rafting, ziplining, starring in a play, having meaningful conversations, living tech-free…the list goes on and on and on. There is something for everybody, and, more than likely, something unexpected for everybody too. For connecting with someone or something you never thought possible is truly one of camp’s greatest gifts.

I, for one, never get tired of hearing (or saying) “for the first time ever.”

-JH