What made you want to work here?
I have always wanted to work at SEP after being a camper. It is such a unique camp that fosters a safe learning experience with peers that have similar academic pursuits. I wanted to be able to give back to the camp that gave me such memorable experiences. SEP was always one of the highlights of my summer.
What are you teaching for your Special Topic?
My special topic is The Future of Food. We will be exploring the changes in the American food system over the last century from an agrarian system to industrial by watching clips from Food Inc. and reading excerpts from The Omnivore's Dilemma. The campers will have a chance to hear from the executive chef of St. Anne's Belfield School or a representative from the Local Food Hub on the importance of using locally grown food and sustainable agriculture.
What's your favorite part of camp, and why?
My favorite part of camp is the weekend. It offers campers the chance to explore more of UVA and Charlottesville, as well as, to participate in field day and attend the dance. Field day and the dance are so much fun and really help to bring together the spirit and energy of SEP. No matter your physical abilities, SEP is a judgement free zone where everyone can participate.
What's your favorite memory from being a camper?
One of my favorite memories from SEP was the last day of camp where you get to stay up, eat junk food, and solidify those bonds with the other girls in your suite. Camp is so unique in that you can create strong friendships in such a short time.
O-Hill or St. Anne's. Why?
I would definitely say St. Annes! I am a huge supporter of sustainable agriculture and STAB does a wonderful job with using local food. STAB sponsors with the Local Food Hub of Charlottesville, which works to connect small scale farms with outlets in the local community including restaurants, schools, and hospitals.
What's something about you that someone might not expect if they didn't know you well?
I am terrified of raccoons ever since my family found one living out of our trash can. Now I literally have to run, quickly throw my trash bag into the dumpster, and then run back to my room. They are just too smart!
When you first started working here, what's something that surprised you?
It surprised me how supportive the other counselors are. If I ever need anything there is always some one there to help or even to just cheer me up on a rough day.
Any funny stories from the summer so far?
The funniest thing that has happened so far was probably the impromptu dance party my crew had. We danced to Cotton-Eyed Joe and sang Taylor Swift while using hairbrushes as microphones.
What's the most difficult part of the job?
I think the most difficult part of the job is discipline. Safety is my number one priority and sometimes I have to raise my voice or set specific punishments in order to make my point clear. I never like to yell but it is important as a counselor to set boundaries so my campers can stay healthy and safe throughout the whole session.
What do you know/think about gifted education?
I think gifted education is extremely important in order to continually engage those students that on average perform at a higher level. It gives these high performing students a chance to be challenged in a school setting. From personal experiences, SEP was always such a wonderful escape where I was surrounded by peers who had the same love to learn.
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