Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Counselor of the Day: Destinie Thomas

Today's counselor is Destinie Thomas. Destinie is a rising 4th year at the University of Virginia, studying women and gender, sociology, and elementary education. 

Destinie is a counselor in 5-8 for 8th grade girls

How long have you been with SEP?

This is my first year :).

What made you want to work at SEP?

I want to become a teacher, so working at a SEP gives me the chance to develop essential teaching skills. I've also heard nothing but FABULOUS things about SEP from all of my friends that were involved in the past. It was a no brainer! 

What's your special topic?

My special topic is called "What's in the Stars for You." In the class, we explore astrology, specifically its origin, history, and relevance in our culture. We also have fun writing horoscopes for camp counselors like real astrologers, and learning more about our signs. Lastly, we debate if astrology is science or just for fun.

What's your favorite part of camp and why?

My favorite part of camp would have to be the fashion show we had as a large group activity. It was the second rain day in a row, so we rescheduled the day to include a large group activity inside. For the activity, one of my girls picked two things (a jersey and bandanna) from a pile of crazy costumes and props, and she got toilet paper. Then, all of my campers made me a fabulous wedding dress with those things...their smiles were priceless. 

What's your hall theme?

In Metcalf 3L (aka Monster's Inc.), you will find the "Hashtags." 

What's your favorite memory from being a camper?

My favorite memory would definitely be the Saturday activities. Shopping, movies, fro-yo, and a Dance! Sounds like a grand time to me!

Do you prefer eating at O-Hill or St. Anne's?

St . Anne's! I haven't had a bad meal yet. And I live near O-Hill during the academic year so a break from their food is always appreciated. 

What's something about you that someone might not expect if they didn't know you well?

I'm an introvert. I enjoy being in large groups and being in the limelight, but I really cherish my alone time. Self-reflecting is when I recharge.

When you first started working here, what's something that surprised you?

I was surprised at how many activities SEP fits in one day! At first, I was intimidated by the schedule, but now I see the significance of keeping the campers busy. Also, the wake-up time. 

What's a funny story that happened at camp so far?

A girl from another group came up to me, grabbed my cheeks, and yelled, "Destinie!" Naturally, I asked her name. When she replied she said, "Wait, you totally know me!" though I definitely didn't. She then went on to ask me where my parents worked, where I lived, if I had been to SEP before, how old I was, etc. All of the campers around were laughing so hard. 

What do you think is the most difficult part of the job?

For me, the hardest part has been keeping my group of campers prompt. Sometimes I think it's hard for them to understand the importance of being on time, so I am always pushing them to be more punctual. In fact, it's one of our hall's goals to never be the last to arrive, not even fashionably late. 

What do you think about gifted education?

As a child, I was placed in gifted education. About three times a week, I was pulled out of class for about one and a half hours. I think gifted education is a way school's differentiate curriculum to keep advanced kids interested in school and learning. 

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