Pros
- The program is intentionally based around creating a safe and nurturing environment for the campers, and that really is the core of everything - Staff are responsible in a large part for their own experience. Lots of opportunity for any staff member to take on new responsibilities and work towards moving into different roles - lots of support given for this. - Gives an opportunity to consider more than only professional aspects, and offers philosophies to help in much wider sense - Long staff training gives time for staff to know each other well, and learn so much in the process - The support/time given to counselors is significant, and built into the leadership structure. Ratio of campers to staff is high, and ratio of staff to supervisors is also high - Though not perfect all the time, many of the philosophies are intended for staff to feel heard, and for them to be able to create change and improvements. I have experienced a culture that encourages feedback/concerns, and prioritises making the time to discuss it, and make changes if that is required. I have witnessed countless changes to the philosophies/agreements/program because a staff member opened a discussion and it was listened to. - The food is incredible, and all diets/preferences are taken into account and prioritized -Global network of incredible staff that support each other long after they stop working for Augusta
Cons
- Very long hours, often physically draining days - Little personal time during the summer - Lines between organization and community are often blurred, and can be challenging to balance the two - Type of job is certainly not for everyone, and some people find that out during the summer, which can be challenging - High expectations, and positive feedback is not readily offered. For those who do not seek out feedback themselves, this can be a struggle
