Whether you’re walking into a camp job fair, hopping on a quick phone screen, or getting asked “Tell me about yourself” in an interview, having a short, confident elevator pitch can set the tone for a great conversation.
As a summer camp counselor, your job is to bring energy, empathy, and leadership to every activity—and your pitch should reflect just that. But what do you say when you only have 30–60 seconds to make a first impression?
The good news? You don’t need to have years of experience. Whether you’re applying for your first camp job or you’ve been a returning counselor for several summers, a strong elevator pitch can help you highlight your strengths, values, and enthusiasm for working with kids.
In this article, you’ll find:
- Quick tips for creating a strong elevator pitch
- 10 humanized, adaptable sample pitches for camp counselor roles
What Makes a Good Elevator Pitch?
A good elevator pitch is:
- Brief (30–60 seconds max)
- Personal (let your voice and values shine through)
- Relevant (tailored to the role and audience)
- Action-oriented (what you’ve done or hope to do)
Your pitch doesn’t need to sound perfect or rehearsed—it should sound like you, talking with purpose and positivity
10 Sample Elevator Pitches for Summer Camp Counselor Roles
Use these examples as inspiration or a starting point to make your own. Some are geared toward first-timers, while others are better for returning counselors or those with related experience.
1. For First-Time Applicants with Volunteer Experience
“Hi, I’m Jordan! I’ve never worked at a summer camp before, but I’ve spent the last two years volunteering as a reading buddy at my local library and mentoring elementary students through a school program. I love working with kids, and I’m excited about the idea of helping them build confidence, try new things, and just have an amazing summer outdoors.”
2. For a College Student Studying Education
“Hi, I’m Kayla. I’m an elementary education major and love any opportunity to work with children in hands-on, creative ways. I’m especially passionate about helping kids build social-emotional skills through play. I think being a camp counselor is an amazing way to help young people grow while also learning how to become a better educator myself.”
3. For Someone With Customer Service Experience
“Hey there! I’m Sam, and while I haven’t worked at a camp yet, I’ve spent the last year working in a busy kids’ play center and have learned how to keep things safe, fun, and engaging—even when things get a little chaotic! I’m patient, upbeat, and love working in fast-paced environments, which is why I think camp is the perfect next step for me.”
4. For a Returning Counselor
“Hi, I’m Lila, and I worked as a counselor at Camp Willow last summer. I focused on leading team games and group bonding activities for 10–12-year-olds. I loved seeing how much the kids grew in just a few weeks—socially and emotionally. I’m excited to come back and continue making camp a space where kids feel supported, included, and free to be themselves.”
5. For Someone With Leadership and Team Experience
“I’m Marcus. I’ve played sports my whole life and have been a peer leader in my high school’s athletic program. I’ve also coached youth rec league soccer, which taught me a lot about patience and encouragement. I want to bring that same positive energy to a summer camp where I can help kids build confidence and teamwork skills.”
6. For a High School Student Looking for Their First Job
“Hi, I’m Ava. I’m in 11th grade and love working with younger kids—I’ve helped out with my younger siblings and volunteered at my church’s summer vacation program. I know this would be my first paid job, but I’m dependable, friendly, and always bring a lot of energy to everything I do. I’m really excited about the chance to be part of a camp team.”
7. For Someone with Arts or Creative Background
“Hi! I’m Jonah, and I’m an art student who loves using creativity to connect with others—especially kids. I’ve taught crafts at community events and run paint-and-play workshops with local families. I’d love to bring my passion for creative expression to a summer camp setting where I can help kids try new things and build confidence through art and hands-on fun.”
8. For Someone Interested in Outdoor Education
“I’m Riley, and I’m passionate about getting kids outside and helping them feel comfortable in nature. I’ve led nature hikes for after-school programs and assisted in outdoor skills workshops at my local park district. I think summer camp is the perfect place to help kids unplug, connect with each other, and develop independence in a fun and safe environment.”
9. For Someone Interested in Mental Health or Youth Support
“Hi, I’m Dani. I’m currently studying psychology and want to eventually work with young people in school or clinical settings. I think being a camp counselor is a great way to connect with youth and support them socially and emotionally in a fun, low-pressure environment. I bring patience, a good sense of humor, and a calm presence to group settings.”
10. For a Career Changer or Nontraditional Applicant
“Hey, I’m Chris. I’ve spent the last few years working in retail management, but I’ve always wanted to work more directly with young people. I’ve coached youth basketball and volunteered with a local mentoring group, and I’m excited to make the shift into something more purpose-driven. I think camp is an ideal environment to use my leadership and people skills to make a real impact.”
In Closing
Whether you’re applying for your first camp role or bringing past experience, your elevator pitch is your chance to connect quickly and meaningfully. Don’t worry about sounding scripted—just speak from the heart about why you want to work with kids, how you show up for others, and what excites you about being part of a summer camp team.
You’re not just applying for a job—you’re stepping into a role that could help shape someone’s summer (and yours, too).
Want more support with your summer camp application or interview? Explore our other posts:
- Top 10 Interview Questions for Summer Camp Counselors and How to Answer Them
- How to Write a Resume for a Camp Counselor with No Experience
- How to Prepare for a Summer Camp Job Interview Using the STAR Method
- How to Conduct a Self-Assessment to Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses
- What You Really Learn as a Summer Camp Counselor (That Translates to Any Career
