The excited shouts of joy echoed down the halls as I walked into the school. Everyday I was greeted by the sound of laughter and the frenzy of campers coming to hug me. Over the summer, I had my first job and worked as an Extended Care Intern for Galileo, a summer camp program dedicated to fostering innovation within the minds of young elementary students. Children ranging from Pre-K to 10th grade came to camp 5 days a week and participated in many hands-on activities and events that helped them develop the Innovator뭩 Mindset at an early age.
A week prior to the first day of camp, the staff crew was diligently preparing for the arrival of the campers. They transformed the entire school into a beautiful plastic-protected wonderland of innovation, preparing extra cautiously this year due to COVID-19. They created posters, covered classroom floors with plastic coating, and constructed decorations matching the camp뭩 first week theme of National Parks. Although it was hard work in the beginning, it was satisfying to see the entire camp take form.
Before I knew it, the first day of camp arrived, and I didn뭪 know what to expect. I was assigned to the Supernova group, consisting of Pre-K and Kindergartners. Throughout the next 6 weeks, my life was a roller coaster as there were many peaks and valleys along my journey. It was undoubtedly fun being around the cute 밡ebbies?all day and guiding them along the various activities that we did together. At the same time, it was very energy draining and during some days, the Nebbies would not cooperate with me. Despite some difficulties, the Nebbies and I became very close and I knew each one of my students by heart. Some of the best things that we did together included painting Grand Canyon canvases, assembling robots from cardboard pieces, and designing their own personal Go Fish cards. During every activity, the young minds of every student would light up and their eyes would widen, seeing all the possibilities of their craftsmanship.
The next few weeks went by in a blur, and before I knew it the camp was coming to a close. Throughout my six weeks as a Galileo staff member I was able to gain valuable work experience, and more importantly, connect with so many other wonderful people. During a time when society was transitioning back to normal from the Coronavirus, it was gratifying to finally work with others again in physical surroundings. I had so much fun playing games with my students and creating entertaining crafts. Although camp is now over, I know I will always be a Galliean forever.
Jonathan Chun, Grade 12
West Ranch High School
