Meet our International Resident Camp Counselors

At Camp West Mar, in the beautiful Catoctin Mountains, the YMCA of Frederick County is hosting International students as resident camp counselors for overnight camp this summer. We would like to introduce them to you.

William Tolley, 19 years old, from Yorkshire, England.

I have wanted to do Camp America since I was around 1415, as my moth, uncle, and auntie all did it together in 1989. They always told me it was the best summer of their lives, so it would have been silly not to do the same.

My favorite part about camp is the sports, especially learning about new ones, such as baseball.

Lewis Atkins, 24 years old, from Southhampton, England

I wanted to do Camp America as I want to work in pediatrics, so it is a perfect opportunity to gain experience working with children while simultaneously learning about American culture.

My favorite part about camp so far has been getting to know many new people!

Viviana Riano, 21 years old, from Bogota, Columbia.

I wanted to do Camp America because I love to work with kids, and what’s a better way to do it than traveling to another country to learn about new cultures, people, food, and languages simultaneously?

I love how being at camp has helped me get out of my comfort zone by trying new things I’ve never done before. Disconnecting from the chaos of the city and living surrounded by nature has been my favorite part.

Charlotte, 19 years old, from Rhonda Valley, Wales

I wanted to do Camp America to experience the county and to meet new people.

My favorite part of camp so far has been spending all day out in nature and seeing new animals and insects that we don’t have in the UK.

Pavla Novakova, 19 years old, from the Czech Republic

I have decided to fly to America because I love traveling and want to experience some adventure over the summer. I have studied pedagogy and teaching for four years. When my professor told me about Camp America, I knew it was the right opportunity for me.

I am enjoying this summer! The best thing about camp is meeting new people, getting to know a new culture, learning new sports, and bettering my English.