AYC let me experience something completely new—what it feels like to be a younger sibling! At home, I am the eldest of four kids. I have two younger brothers and one sister. Being the eldest in my family means that I have more trust from my parents, but it also comes with increased responsibility.

For example, my parents leave me to babysit my younger siblings when they go out or are at work. Other duties include chores such as mopping, folding laundry, making beds, and preparing food.

Yet during my two weeks at camp, I was one of the youngest campers. This helped me put things in perspective and better respect those older than me.

At home, I have to be a good example for my siblings. I listen to them when they come to me and try to give them good advice.

These roles were reversed at camp. Instead, I looked to older campers for what to do and made sure to follow what counselors instructed to show respect for authority. They reminded me to keep my bunk clean and to tuck in my shirt.

During my time at camp, one event really stuck out for me as a younger AYC sibling. It was late at night in the bunkhouse and I had a stomachache. The female counselors helped me feel better by saying comforting words such as, “You’re going to be okay,” and, “You should feel better by tomorrow.”

Some of the girl campers also sat beside my bed and tried to help, telling me: “We are all in this together because we are sisters.”

My camp family was there for me! Instead of me watching over my siblings—campers, staff and counselors watched over me.

This experience helped me better understand my role as the eldest child in my family. When I return home, I will try to do the same—make sure to be there for my siblings at home when they are sick or upset, or even if they just want to talk. Overall, it was good to learn that we all have responsibilities to take care of one another.

If you are nervous about coming to camp, do not be. Your camp family will be there for you!