10/11/2026
“The fear you feel before you leave is not a sign you shouldn’t—it’s just the price of doing something that matters.” ✨🌲
Meet Maria Jose from Mexico, who spent an unforgettable summer working as a camp counselor in Maine!
She almost didn’t apply because going so far from home alone was terrifying. The first few days pushed her outside her comfort zone—until the community took her in and changed everything:
💛 Instant Community: "International and national staff welcome you as if you were always part of something amazing."
🤝 The Power of Camp People: "What got me through was a co-counselor who took me under their wing and a camper who made me laugh when I was about to cry."
🌎 Cultural Exchange: "Teaching them about my home while learning so much about theirs... I now have people on the other side of the world I can call family."
🚀 Personal & Professional Growth: "I came home more independent, patient, and learned real leadership—staying calm under pressure and communicating clearly."
💬 Her Advice to You: "To anyone back home hesitating: just go. I came home with more confidence, skills, and friends... it was worth every scary second."
Are you ready to discover what you’re capable of next summer?👉 Explore the J-1 Camp Counselor Program and start your journey at www.unitedstudies.org!