Fairy tales are considered works of fiction because of the fantastically unrealistic locations, characters, and events. However, I know of a place that is equally utopian, yet deemed to be a part of our shared reality. I’ve even been there. I’ve seen nature at its purest, met people at their kindest, and experienced a kind of personal growth that has changed the course of my life forever. This Shangri-la is not found in a James Hilton novel, but rather in Wake Forest, North Carolina. While its alumni call it home, it is formally known as Camp Kanata.
For the summer of 2014, I was chosen to be a participant in the Camper In Leadership Training (CILT) program. The CILT year is legendary among those who have experienced camp. You work six hours a day in the dining hall and do much of the laborious background work for the camp. CILTs go to sleep when everyone else is beginning their second REM …show more content…
I was asked back to be a Counselor In Training (CIT), the second half of the trainee program, for three weeks of summer 2015. I strived to prove myself, utilizing the leadership skills that I gained during my CILT year. CITs live in cabins with the campers and counselors, gradually learning not only how to emulate the latter, but also how to become one in every aspect except title and paycheck. While the CILT program is often a Kanata go-er’s fondest memory of camp, many reflect on their CIT experience as one of the hardest things they’ve ever done. Those that come out the other side successfully are revered for their fortitude, drive, and energy. At first, I was miserable and lonely, as the divide between CIT and counselor is meant to be very clear. I learned that I do not respond well to loneliness, but I thrive when I am with others and treated with affection. It wasn’t until I found the perfect age group and discovered my capacity that I drove myself to meet my presented
For the summer of 2014, I was chosen to be a participant in the Camper In Leadership Training (CILT) program. The CILT year is legendary among those who have experienced camp. You work six hours a day in the dining hall and do much of the laborious background work for the camp. CILTs go to sleep when everyone else is beginning their second REM …show more content…
I was asked back to be a Counselor In Training (CIT), the second half of the trainee program, for three weeks of summer 2015. I strived to prove myself, utilizing the leadership skills that I gained during my CILT year. CITs live in cabins with the campers and counselors, gradually learning not only how to emulate the latter, but also how to become one in every aspect except title and paycheck. While the CILT program is often a Kanata go-er’s fondest memory of camp, many reflect on their CIT experience as one of the hardest things they’ve ever done. Those that come out the other side successfully are revered for their fortitude, drive, and energy. At first, I was miserable and lonely, as the divide between CIT and counselor is meant to be very clear. I learned that I do not respond well to loneliness, but I thrive when I am with others and treated with affection. It wasn’t until I found the perfect age group and discovered my capacity that I drove myself to meet my presented