During the week of July 5, I had the opportunity to be a counselor at Camp LiveGirl. We engaged in a variety of activities, from building tic-tac-toe boards in the Design Lab to playing duck-duck-goose outside. As my campers developed into braver versions of themselves, I learned the importance of mentorship.  

On the first day, I sat next to a quiet and reserved girl. When we had a snack break, she began to read Harry Potter. As a fellow Harry Potter fan, I asked her a couple of questions about the book. By talking about our favorite characters and scenes, we found a way to connect. 

Even though the girl became more comfortable with me, she had trouble speaking in groups. I noticed that she mumbled ideas under her breath and wrote down answers to questions on pieces of paper rather than raising her hand. 

She had the right notions but lacked the confidence to voice them. In fifth grade, I too found it difficult to open up. Positive reinforcement from others helped me. Therefore, every time she spoke, I would nod in agreement and give her a thumbs up. I made an effort to engage with her, sit next to her, and get to know her. 

My small, consistent acts of encouragement boosted her self-esteem. Soon, she began to assert herself and show her personality. We had a lot of laughs and I enjoyed discovering her quirky sense of humor. 

On the last day, the Camp Director asked the girls to share one hobby that they love. To my suprise, the girl turned to me and asked if she could share. Enthusiastically, I said yes. In front of all the campers, she stood up and spoke about her love for reading. I congratulated her and told her how proud I was.  When she felt ready to try something new, she embraced the opportunity.  

Camp LiveGirl helped me discover more about myself and the significance of female mentorship to young girls. By showing your support, you are imbuing young children with self-confidence and the power to make a difference.  

As a rising senior, I hope to use my new leadership skills to make the underclassmen feel welcomed and supported. 

If you are interested in becoming a LiveGirl Camp Counselor, sign up for next year! LiveGirl also has volunteer opportunities. For instance, you can join the LiveGirl League, Leadership Council, or become a Mentor.