Summer Camp Jobs

A J1 Visa/ BridgeUSA Programme

Make this Summer one to remember!

This summer, work as a camp counselor at an American summer camp! You will spend 8 to 10 weeks in the great outdoors, where you will gain new skills, learn to be a leader and experiential educator, and make friendships that will last a lifetime – all while doing what you love and sharing your passion with kids.

Programme Fee: £149 until 15 Feb 2025

Who Can Apply?

University students, graduates, teachers, youth workers, and/or those capable of teaching a specialized camp activity are eligible for Camp Exchange USA. You are not required to teach a special skill or activity offered at summer camps, but all applicants must have experience working with kids and leadership experience

Eligibility

To apply for Camp Exchange, you must be

  • Be between the ages of 18 and 27

  • Be proficient in spoken and written English

  • Be comfortable working with children

  • Energetic, fun-loving, and happy in an active environment

  • Ready to spend June – August (at least 8 weeks) at camp

  • Have a clean criminal background record

Camp participants with mountain in bangrouond

Motivated by our mission

The CIEE Camp Exchange Difference

Founded in 1947, CIEE is the country’s oldest and largest nonprofit study abroad and intercultural exchange organization. That makes us uniquely qualified to help students, graduates, and non-students alike gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful experiential educators through Camp Exchange USA.

The Camp Experience

While camps are located in different environments and offer different activities, they all share one thing in common: an atmosphere of fun, friendship, and discovery. Being a camp counselor is also a unique cultural experience. As a camp counselor you will be part of an American tradition and with that a deep immersion into the American culture. You will learn about the American culture from your interactions at camp and have the opportunity to teach everyone you interact with about your culture. Don’t take our word for it. Watch the video below to see for yourself:

  • Waterskiing at summer camp

    Why Camp Exchange USA?

    Summer jobs in the US benefit international students beyond earning money. They foster cultural exchange and enhance communication skills. Students gain real-world experience, strengthen their resumes, and explore new career options.

  • Cabin Counselor

    As a cabin counselor your responsibility will be to live with and guide campers throughout the camp experience. Be more than just a counselor; be a bunkmate, mentor, and friend.

  • Activity Specialist

    As an activity specialist your main focus will be to engage directly with kids to teach them new activities and skills such as horseback riding, archery, field hockey, and more. 

  • Types of Camp

    There are thousands of camps in the U.S.  We look for a camp that’s looking for YOU! CIEE works with a wide variety of camps and in almost every state in the U.S. Whether you are placed at a private or non-profit, special needs or specialty camp, all our camps are vetted and accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA).

  • Not your Everyday job...

    As a counselor you have to wear a lot of hats at the same time. It can get to be a tall stack. You have to be the Parent and tell them to go brush their teeth. You have to be the Friend and help them up when they fall. You have to be the Superhero who shows them that if they just believe in themselves everything is possible.

Your Camp Exchange USA Package

Placement at a high-quality, accredited summer camp in the U.S. Your placement is based on your unique skills, personality and experience and the needs of the camp.

  • Room and board during your stay at camp and spending money for travel after camp.

  • Complete J-1 visa sponsorship and application assistance.

  • Comprehensive travel medical insurance for the duration of your program.

  • 24/7 best-in-class support for the duration of your program - we are always here to help!

  • An in-person pre-departure orientation in your home country.

  • Full training at camp with fellow international and American counselors to get you ready for the summer.

  • Arrival Meet & Greet in the U.S. Get a free transfer from the airport, a one-night stay in a hostel, and onward travel to camp the next day! (First-time participants only, dependent of camp placement)

  • Up to 30 days after camp to travel and explore the U.S. Explore famous cities, visit quintessential landmarks, and see the diverse landscape, peoples, cultures, and cuisines spread across this large, beautiful, welcoming country.

Looking for an Internship?

Check out our Placement Plus Programme.