Counselor of the Day: Jonah Dister

Today's counselor is Jonah Dister. He is a rising second year at UVA, majoring in either psychology or foreign affairs. Jonah is in 5-8 with the 6th grade boys.

How many years have you worked at SEP?

This is my first year working at SEP.

What about SEP made you want to work here?

My experience as a camper is what made me want to work here at SEP. SEP was often my favorite part of the summer and I wanted to be a counselor to help create that experience for other children.

What is your special topic?
My special topic is Superhero Science. We will explore the scientific basis of superhero and supervillain powers. How do the mutants in X-Men compare to real life mutations and human evolution? What gadgets that Batman uses are used in real life today?

What is your favorite part of camp?

My favorite part of camp is doing evening activities with the campers. I like working with a fellow counselor to put on a creative and entertaining game for the campers. It is a good contrast with other parts of the day and let's you get to know campers you might not usually meet.

What's your hall theme?

I am on the second floor of Lefevre and I have sixth graders. My theme is "Knights". Each camper has their own coat of arms on their door.

What was your favorite memory from being an SEP camper?

My favorite part of being a camper was the dance party. It was a great way to celebrate with the entire camp.

Ohill or St. Anne's?

St. Anne's has better food, but maybe that is because I have to eat O-Hill food all year.

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

I really enjoy older, classic movies. My three favorite movies of all time are probably 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Graduate, and Jaws.

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

I was surprised that despite the incredible amount of responsibilities I have as a counselor, I am having even more fun than I did as a camper!

Without using any camper names, tell us a funny story that happened so far this summer?

A fellow counselor and I pretend to read each other's minds and his fifth grade campers think we are magicians!

What do you think will be the most difficult part of the job?

I think the most difficult part of the job will be saying goodbye to the campers after each session. I have really gotten to know these campers very well and have a lot of fun hanging out with them. I will hate to see them leave so soon!

What do you know about gifted education?

I think that gifted education is incredibly important in order to provide for the needs of children that might not be challenged in a standard classroom setting.