Applications for the 2026 Counselor in Training Program will open in February 2026.
The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program at Camp Edey provides an impactful experience for young women interested in leadership and youth development. All CITs receive full scholarships, making this prestigious program more accessible than ever before.
This program offers a select group of young women, ages 15-17 (rising 10th through 12th graders), the opportunity to develop leadership skills, gain hands-on experience working with younger campers, and engage in a structured program designed to foster personal and professional growth.
This immersive experience is designed for individuals who aspire to be role models, demonstrate a commitment to working with children, and are eager to learn from their peers—our counselors, ages 18-23, and camp leadership. CITs will refine their communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a supportive, all-girls environment that emphasizes both leadership and meaningful peer connections.
In addition to their leadership development, CITs will take part in our weekly Teen Venture Trips, which range from engaging educational experiences to purely fun outings—think Splish Splash, Adventureland, and more. These trips provide an opportunity to bond with fellow CITs while making the most of summer.
This program offers a highly immersive, scholarship-funded leadership experience that prepares young women for future success while allowing them to create lifelong friendships along the way.
Program Details:
- Eligibility: Girls ages 15-17 (rising 10th-12th graders); prior Camp Edey experience preferred.
- Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:45 AM - 4 PM. Half-days and partial weeks are not available.
- Tuition: Accepted participants will receive a full tuition scholarship.
- Duration: Participants commit to a minimum of three weeks, with placements available for up to eight weeks.
- Additional Opportunities: CITs will take part in weekly Teen Venture Trips, providing exposure to team-based outdoor experiences that complement their leadership development.
- Training Requirement: Attendance at training sessions in late June is required.
- Capacity: Enrollment is limited to eight CITs per week to ensure individualized mentorship and a high-quality experience.:
Application & Admission Requirements:
Admission to the CIT program is competitive, and candidates are expected to demonstrate maturity, responsibility, and a strong interest in youth development. To be considered, applicants must submit:
- A completed application form
- A copy of their most recent high school report card
- A personal essay (1-2 pages, size 12 font, double-spaced) responding to one of the Essay Prompts below :
- The Role of a Role Model: Think about a time when someone—whether a teacher, coach, family member, or peer—taught you something valuable through their actions rather than their words. How did their behavior impact you, and how do you hope to embody that same influence as a CIT?
- Leadership in Unexpected Places: Leadership is often associated with formal positions, but some of the most impactful moments happen in everyday life. Describe a time when you took initiative or made a difference in a situation without being asked. What did this experience teach you about responsibility, decision-making, or personal growth?
- Overcoming Challenges & Building Resilience: Working with children requires patience, adaptability, and the ability to navigate challenges. Describe a time when you faced an obstacle, whether personal, academic, or social. How did you handle it, what did you learn, and how will this experience help you as a CIT?
Application Deadlines & Decision Notification:
This program represents a significant opportunity for young women to build critical leadership and mentoring skills in a dynamic, structured environment. All application materials must be submitted by Friday, May 2nd, 2026 and decisions regarding acceptance and placement will be communicated by Monday, May 4th, 2026.
Application Instructions:
- The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) application must be completed in one sitting, as you cannot save your progress and return later. Before beginning, ensure you have the following documents ready to upload: your most recent high school report card and your completed essay (1-2 pages, size 12 font, double-spaced).
- In addition to uploading these documents, the application includes four short-answer questions that require thoughtful, well-structured responses. Strong writing matters, so please check your spelling and grammar before submitting. Expect to spend 45 minutes to 1 hour completing the application in full. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
