28/03/2025
A Week of Adventure at Counselor in Training Camp: Building Connections, Learning, and Growing Together
This week at Counselor in Training camp was filled with adventure, growth, and unforgettable experiences! From team-building activities that helped us connect as a cohort to hands-on projects that allowed us to give back to the community, it was a week we’ll always remember.
We kicked off the week with a variety of team-building activities that brought us closer together. Through trust exercises, problem-solving games, and group challenges, we not only learned about each other but also developed skills that will help us become better leaders and future counselors.
One of the highlights of our week was our visit to Grass Roots Garden, where we had the chance to plant greens and harvest broccoli for Food for Lane County. It was an incredible opportunity to see the impact of community farming and contribute to the local food bank that serves so many in need. We left feeling proud to be part of something that supports our community in such a meaningful way.
We also visited Parker Learning Gardens, where we helped braid the living willow fedge (a new term we learned that refers to a living fence-hedge). It was amazing to see how nature can be shaped and used to create something beautiful and functional. We learned about sustainable gardening practices and the importance of maintaining these green spaces for future generations.
A very special moment during the week was meeting Simon Longnight, a talented actor from the cast of Hamilton. Simon, who plays both Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson, shared his incredible journey with us and offered valuable advice on pursuing dreams and overcoming challenges. A fun fact we learned—Simon is a graduate of South Eugene High! We’re so grateful to the Hult Center for connecting us with Simon, and we thank him for taking the time to inspire the young people in our community.
We wrapped up the week with some fun and relaxation. On Thursday, we took a refreshing swim at Echo Hollow pool, cooling off and enjoying each other's company. The highlight of the week was our beautiful hiking trip to Sweet Creek Falls, where we connected with nature and took in the stunning scenery. The peaceful sound of the falls was the perfect way to end such an adventurous week.
A big thank you to everyone who made this week possible—our mentors, the organizations we worked with, and all the amazing people who made this experience unforgettable.
