Other Possibilities (working with children)

LiveandLearn-Program

I did my stay abroad in South Africa where I lived in Hout Bay, a part of Cape Town, for three months. My stay abroad was organized by an organization called “LiveandLearn”. The organization is led by a German couple from South Africa, who work together with social projects from all over the country. The projects vary from fields like sports and education to environmental protection.

As my second subject is physical education, I chose to participate in a project where I worked as a soccer coach in a local club. The Hout Bay United Football Community, short HBUFC, is a social project that uses sport to bring people from the different parts of Cape Town together. Additionally, the semi-professional club helps to keep young children from the surrounding townships away from drugs and violence. The aspect that impressed me the most was how real my experience of the South African culture was. As a lot of the club’s work was done in the townships of Hout Bay, I witnessed firsthand the extent of the local poverty. As I had only seen such images on television before, it was tough to see the kids that I trained growing up in such demoralizing situations. On the other hand, it also impressed me how happy, open and friendly the people were, even though some of them had extreme financial hardships and were struggling to make ends meet.

I lived together with another German volunteer in a house with a player from the club, which was also great for getting in contact with South Africans. Personally, I would recommend South Africa to someone looking for a place to do their stay abroad, as it is a country that has something to offer for everybody who travels there. South Africans are warm and welcoming.

"From Dreams to Reality: A Journey as a Camp Counselor in the USA"

My greatest aspiration had always been to visit the United States, yet I never found the opportunity to do so. While completing my high school diploma, I contemplated my post-graduation plans. The idea emerged: I would become a teacher, fulfilling a childhood dream. The choice of subject was evident; my proficiency in English, coupled with the requirement to spend a semester abroad, eliminated any excuses not to pursue my dream.

Having made this decision, a new challenge arose: How could I survive three months in the States without going broke? University wasn't an option without a scholarship, and becoming an au pair would take too long. I explored further and found an opportunity: working at a summer camp in America, reminiscent of the renowned Camp Rock.

I applied for summer camps and swiftly secured a position as a Babysitter/Kids Camp Counselor. I would work for 2 1/2 months, using the earned money to travel afterward. Initially, I couldn't envision the job, as information was limited to typical roles. Once there, I realized I was indeed a typical babysitter, assigned children aged 0 to 8, with parents working in the camp during their children's activities.

The camp comprised two sessions, each lasting a month, necessitating me to care for different children in both. Following the two months, all children left as the Family Camp commenced. To keep the children entertained, they participated in camp activities mimicking older kids. We followed schedules with sessions like outdoor cooking, rock climbing, water skiing, and celebrated Shabbat due to the camp's Jewish affiliation.

I nurtured a 2-year-old initially, a significant challenge until he adapted, given his initial irritability and longing for his parents. The bond formed was incredibly rewarding. In the second session, I looked after siblings, a 4-year-old boy and a 6-year-old girl, learning how to manage disputes.

Post-camp, the Family Camp allowed former counselors to relax, working only 2 hours a day instead of the previous 10. The remaining time was used for recovery or further exploration. The challenging part came when we had to bid farewell. Some went home directly, while others had additional travel plans. Eager to explore the USA, I stayed a night in Chicago before flying to New York City for a week, exploring iconic landmarks.

To unwind further, I spent a week in the picturesque Miami Beach. This entire experience was invaluable, and I never want to miss it. I highly recommend a camp job – a new and challenging venture that accumulates beautiful memories. I had the privilege of meeting fantastic people, maintaining contact with many, and I'm immensely grateful for having had the opportunity to know them.