Our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program gives teens the chance to grow as confident leaders while gaining real, hands-on experience at camp. During each two-week session, CITs spend half of their day in engaging skill-building workshops and then put those skills into action by working directly with campers alongside our experienced staff. Each week, guest speakers join to share insights and inspire our CITs with real-world perspectives on leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. Additionally, once per session, CITs dedicate a morning to focusing on personal wellness, learning strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and take care of themselves as leaders. This mix of learning, practice, and reflection helps CITs develop leadership, communication, and teamwork in a supportive, fun environment.

What CITs Will Learn

Each session focuses on a set of leadership and professional skills that build progressively over the summer, including:

Session 1: Communication and Confidence
CITs develop public speaking skills, clear communication, and professional presence—learning how to lead groups, give instructions, and speak confidently with campers and staff.

Session 2: Personal Branding and Responsibility
CITs work on resume building, professionalism, email etiquette, and self-presentation while learning what it means to be a reliable role model.

Session 3: Teamwork and Problem-Solving
Through entrepreneurial thinking and strategic challenges, CITs practice collaboration, creativity, and decision-making—skills they’ll use daily with campers.

Session 4: Leadership and Conflict Resolution
CITs learn how to guide groups, manage challenges, resolve conflicts, and support campers with empathy and confidence.

Learning by Doing

The heart of the CIT program is real-world practice. After morning workshops, CITs head into camp programs where they:

Assist counselors and instructors;
Lead activities and games;
Support younger campers; and
Practice communication, leadership, and responsibility in real camp settings.

This blend of instruction and hands-on experience allows CITs to immediately apply what they learn, reflect on their growth, and build confidence over each two-week session.

Preparing Tomorrow’s Camp Leaders

By the end of the summer, CITs leave with stronger leadership skills, meaningful experience working with children, and tools they can carry into school, jobs, and future leadership roles—all while being an active, valued part of the Westtown Summer Camp community.