Outstanding summer programs for teens since 1982
Group of summer leaders by the water
A photo of group of summer leaders by the water, with a text overlay of "Summer Leaders"

Summer Leaders

Summer Leaders

Our Summer Leaders

Our leaders are the special ingredient in creating the summer of a lifetime for every participant on our programs. We take great pride in the praise our staff earn year after year for their ability to create fun, safe, and inclusive group environments. They are teachers, professors, coaches, student affairs professionals and other leaders who believe in the transformative impacts of travel. And best of all, they love what they do, which is evident from the fact that many return back year after year for 5, 10 even 15+ summers.

Meet a Few of Our Leaders

Check out these Staff Spotlights! Some of our staff have been with us over 20 summers, while others are recent additions to the team, and all of them bring unique personalities and strengths that make them amazing at what they do.

Competitive Staff Selection & Hiring Process

Every staff member on our programs is certified in CPR and First AID, and must complete our rigorous screening of personal interviews, reference checks, and criminal background checks. Last year, only 18% of applicants earned the coveted position of leader or director.

We pride ourselves on finding the most unique individuals who:

  • Have a demonstrated passion for educating and working with teens
  • Serve as positive role models in their community
  • Demonstrate excellent leadership skills
  • Love to have fun and know how to get everyone involved
  • Are responsible, social, empathetic, and caring

Thorough Training and Preparation

After being selected as a summer leader, director, or other summer staff member, we require all staff to attend mandatory in-person training sessions, ranging from one week for Program Directors and three days for Program Leaders. Written manuals with detailed policies and procedures are reviewed, and additional role-playing exercises reinforce our safety protocols. This ensures that all staff are well-versed in our philosophy, policies, and procedures, and are ready to provide a well-supervised and fun-filled summer program.

24/7 Support During the Summer

Your staff team is also supported by, and has regular contact with, our Company Directors, Program Coordinators, and Regional Supervisors, who act as their 24/7 support team. In a given summer, we have over 280 scheduled support visits to make sure programs are running smoothly. This in-depth investment in personnel is essential to achieving consistent, excellent program quality.

Become a Summer Leader

Becoming a summer leader is a big responsibility that also comes with big rewards like working with teens, collaborating with amazing colleagues and exploring the world. Think you have what it takes to become a summer leader? Apply Now.