Erin will be joining us for her third summer at Camp Pinnacle this year! She hails from New York City and is currently a junior at Providence College in Rhode Island, double-majoring in economics and history. Her two younger brothers, Aidan and Colin, are both attending Adventure Treks this year.
Why did you decide to work at Camp Pinnacle? Camp is such a unique place for growth. Campers are exposed to the 5 R’s, which they incorporate into their daily mindsets and put into action while participating in the camp activities. I watched my two younger brothers who were both campers for many years come home with a brighter outlook on everything that surrounded them. It was clear that they took to heart what they learned by using the 5 R’s while at home and at school. They wanted to end their summers outdoors and away from their video games. I wanted to be one of those leaders who guided campers to happiness and success, as I had seen done by the counselors who led my brothers.
What is your favorite traveling experience? This past semester, I studied abroad in London. This experience allowed to me travel to places I never thought I would see. My favorite experience was going to Dublin because I have family there whom I had never met. While there I was able to learn about where I come from. We also traveled to the Cliffs of Moher, which had some of the most amazing views I have ever seen! This trip allowed me to continue to learn about my roots and see the beauty of nature from around the world.
What do you do when you’re not working at camp? Taking advantage of all New York City has to offer! I love my studies in history, and one way I am able to explore my field of study and culturally grow is by visiting the museums around the city. My favorite is the Metropolitan Museum of Art on the Upper East Side, especially the recent exhibit on Michelangelo. I also love to find restaurants throughout the city. The best places are the hole in the wall or speakeasy restaurants that offer a new adventure unique to each establishment. Additionally, I like going to as many concerts as possible. I was raised listening to a wide range of genres, which is still how I enjoy my music now. I will hop onto any opportunity to see any live concert, no matter who is performing!
What are you most proud of? One thing I am most proud of is the combination of my three Adventure Treks trips. They all allowed me to grow during a time when I was still finding myself and learning who I wanted to be as a person. One of my trips included a multi-day trip summiting a mountain on the west coast. Something that has held me back in previous situations was my fear of heights. On that summiting trip, I had an amazing leader, Callie, who encouraged me to keep on pushing myself even when I thought I wouldn’t make it to the top. With her help and the encouragement of my friends, I was able to complete the summit with the group! This experience challenged me and pushed me out of my comfort zone but allowed me to realize I was able to conquer my fears, and nothing should hold me back from new opportunities and experiences.
Tell us a cool fact about yourself. I am currently planning to hike the Appalachian trail with a friend after I graduate from Providence College next year.
What is your favorite camp song? My favorite camp song is the Camp Pinnacle version of “Home.” Even while at school my roommates practically have the Pinnacle version memorized because I sing the camp version every time “Home” plays!
What is your favorite evening program? One of my favorite evening programs is Rainbow Tag! You can always count on tagging one of those Yellows but you have to keep an eye out for those Greenie Meanies swiping your colors!
What are you most excited about for the summer? As this is my third year, there are many parts of camp that are very exciting! This year is my first year focusing on all waterfront activities which, personally, are my favorite activities at camp!