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Staff Life

1. What is camp life like?

Camp Mason is a community in itself. Life here follows the seasons, and our community grows and shrinks as they change. Here's what to expect while you're living and working at camp:

In the Summer: There are hundreds of campers on the property as young as 5 and as old as 16 years old. There are counselors, support staff (kitchen, maintenance, office), families, and administrators from around the country - and the world! As a close-knit community we each must be respectful of each others space, belongings, and feelings.

Summer camp counselors live in cabins with another counselor and 8-10 campers. Admin, program, and support staff live in cabins or dormitory housing. There is a staff lounge available during off times. It has a TV for watching movies, computers with internet access, books & games.

You'll receive a document called 'New Staff Information' when you're hired for the summer. It contains everything you need to know about living and working at Camp Mason in the summertime.

Outdoor Center: Naturalists live in private and semi-private rooms in a building we affectionately call 'The Skip'. It's on the shore of a small lake about a tenth of a mile away from the main office, and contains a kitchen, living room, and bathrooms for our outdoor center staff. There's access to the lake, a fire circle by the water, and a great view of the Kittatinny Ridge. The Skip has its own phone line, and connections for internet and tv. Naturalists make their own arrangements for these amenities each season.

2. How will I communicate with friends and family?

Cell phone coverage is inconsistent, so plan accordingly. During the summer we keep cell phones out of sight, as the campers can't bring theirs. The rest of the year we ask that you be courteous and professional when using your cell.

We do have incoming and outgoing regular mail every day except Sunday.

There are two computers located in the staff lounge that have internet access. Be aware that because of demand, time limits may apply to computer usage. Wifi internet access is available in the staff lounge and dining hall for use during time-off.

3. What should I bring?

Summer Staff: Pack enough warm weather clothing to last two weeks. Don't forget your swim suit! Make sure you have at least one pair of sturdy, closed-toe shoes (sneakers, etc) and one pair of khaki/tan shorts. Bring the basic toiletries and personal things that you need to maintain good health and hygiene. Outdoor Center Staff: Pack what you need for seasonal work in the northeast US.

Staff need to provide their own bedding, either sheets and blankets or a sleeping bag. We're happy to provide our international staff with linens. We'll also provide a trip to Wal-Mart during training week so you can purchase anything else you might need. Laundry service available every two weeks.

Laptops and other expensive items must be stored outside of camper cabins. 

International staff: Please bring a flag from your country! All staff: Please bring a pennant from your college or university!