Counselor in Training (CIT) Program

The Adventure Kids Counselor in Training (CIT) Program is designed for older campers who are ready to take the next step toward leadership, responsibility, and mentorship within our camp community.

This page provides an overview of how the program works, what’s expected of CITs, and how to apply.

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Important Information

  • CIT applicants are expected to complete the application independently

  • Returning CITs do not need to reapply to the program

  • CITs do not pay a registration fee

  • CIT tuition covers all weekly costs, including:

    • Field trips

    • CIT t-shirts

  • Due to the popularity of the program, no more than 12 CITs are accepted per week

CIT Tuition

CITs are grouped by experience level:

  • 1st Year CIT: $150 per week

  • 2nd Year CIT: $125 per week

  • 3rd Year CIT: $100 per week

Tuition is charged weekly for the weeks a CIT is scheduled to attend.

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Returning CITs

Returning CITs do not need to reapply.

  • Please complete the Requested Weeks Form as soon as possible to reserve your spot

  • Review the program outline for the upcoming season

Program Structure & Commitment

CITs are divided into first-, second-, and third-year participants, with responsibilities increasing each year based on experience, maturity, and performance.

CITs may apply to participate for all eight weeks of camp. However, only three weeks are guaranteed. Additional weeks are assigned based on:

  • Camp needs

  • Space availability

  • CIT performance

Whenever possible, we aim to schedule each CIT for four weeks, allowing them to work with a different Nation each week and gain a well-rounded leadership experience.

Additional responsibilities and expectations will be reviewed during staff training.

The Golden Gecko Leadership Program

All CITs participate in the Golden Gecko Leadership Program, led by Miss Julie.

This leadership development program focuses on five core areas:

  1. Being a Team Player

  2. Demonstrating Enthusiasm

  3. Practicing Integrity

  4. Being a Role Model

  5. Developing Initiative

CITs meet weekly with staff members for guided reflection and development and participate in three CIT-only activities throughout the summer.

What Makes a Strong CIT?

The CIT program is a learning experience. CITs are not expected to arrive knowing everything — but they are expected to arrive ready to grow.

Strong CITs typically demonstrate:

  • A willingness to learn and accept feedback

  • A positive, flexible attitude

  • Reliability and responsibility

  • Respectful communication with campers and staff

  • Patience and kindness with younger campers

  • Leadership through example

Staff provide ongoing guidance and support to help CITs build confidence and leadership skills over the course of the summer.

Camper vs. CIT Participation

The CIT program is separate from the camper program.

  • CITs may not attend as campers during weeks they are not scheduled as CITs

  • Adventure Kids serves campers ages 6–12

  • Campers in a transition year who do not turn 13 until after June 15 may choose to remain campers

  • Once a camper becomes a CIT, they may not return to camper status

The camper and CIT programs are mutually exclusive.

New to the CIT Program?

Welcome! We’re excited you’re interested in taking this next step.

  • Applicants must complete the application independently

  • Complete the forms linked under Apply Now

  • Email completed forms to info@adventurekidscamp.com

  • Review the program outline to understand expectations