LA VIDA ADVENTURE CAMP
CIT Frequently Asked QuestionsIf your question is not answered below, please contact us so that we may better assist you.
What does a typical day look like?
Staff and CITs gather each morning at 8 a.m. for various pre-camp meetings. It could be announcements, a CIT-focused small group, or a staff-wide devotional thought and worship to start the day. After morning meetings, staff and CITs meet campers at 9 a.m. The morning might be spent playing games and doing problem-solving activities at our low ropes course to build up the group. The afternoon might be spent doing an activity such as canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, or climbing our high ropes course. Campers gather for pick-up at 4 p.m. Afterwards, staff and CITs meet to debrief the day and plan for the next day. The day ends approximately at 5 p.m.
How am I prepared for being a Counselor in Training?
CIT training is an essential part of the summer program. We want CITs to be successful when assisting counselors in activities and relating to the campers. Training introduces you to Adventure Camp philosophies, adventure activities, and how to work with this age group. It also provides a great time to get to know other CITs and staff and to develop a strong camp community. It is an important start to a memorable summer. Training times are roughly 5 p.m. Friday through 4 p.m. Saturday.
Do Counselors in Training do things together during or outside of camp?
Yes! Training is done primarily with other CITs, and friendships are often formed at this time. Additionally, CITs will have chances to gather together for morning times, dinners, and other activities each week. One of the Counselor in Training Directors will inform you of these opportunities throughout the summer. The staff and CITs end the summer season with a night celebration during the last week of camp.
Is being a Counselor in Training different than being a camper?
Yes. Attending Adventure Camp and being a CIT are both wonderful, but very different opportunities. CITs not only have a fun adventure-filled summer, but are expected to invest a lot of time and effort into others. CITs have more responsibility, preparation, and chances to serve. The majority of each day is spent talking with youth that are 3-5 years younger and being an assistant leader and role model.
What weeks can I be there?
You can learn to lead and practice leading anywhere between 2–4 weeks of camp. Weeks are assigned depending on availability and camp logistics. On the application, check which weeks you are available, and the director will determine your schedule.
Can I sign up for more weeks during the summer?
CITs often start experiencing this new role with Adventure Camp and realize that they love it! Occasionally, there will be available CIT slots to sign up for an additional week during the summer. However, La Vida recommends signing up for sessions in the spring because space is not guaranteed.
Do I need to have been an Adventure Camp camper or an Adirondack Leadership Program participant?
The majority of CITs have been Adventure Campers. We prefer, but do not require, that CITs have some experience in different activities, familiarity with the schedule, and knowledge of the philosophies of Adventure Camp. CITs who participated in the Adirondack Leadership Program additionally come with leadership training and an intensive experiential education foundation.
Do I need to bring my lunch?
Yes. CITs should bring lunch each day to camp. Snacks are provided for each group during the day.
Do CITs live on campus?
No. All CITs live at home. Housing is reserved for staff only.
Get in touch!
255 Grapevine Road
Wenham, MA 01984
Adventure Camp is a summer program of the La Vida Center for Outdoor Education and Leadership at Gordon College located on the North Shore of Boston. La Vida houses six different programs for the community including our summer day camp for middle and high schoolers, a rock gym and challenge course activities for all ages. La Vida provides spiritual development and leadership experiences for Gordon students as well as community organizations utilizing Gordon's campus and our Base Camp in the Adirondack mountains of New York.
