The summer I turned sixteen, I spent two weeks at cheer camp in New Jersey—a brief experience that somehow carved itself permanently into my memory.
Those days were filled with relentless sun, learning intricate stunts and choreography, then retreating to our cabins where real connections formed. The whispered conversations that stretched deep into the night, shared across the narrow space between bunk beds, transformed strangers into something resembling family. We weren't just teammates; we were confidantes.
Two decades later, I never imagined I'd find myself back in a camp setting—this time at thirty-five, serving as the on-site media director. Yet here I was, rediscovering that same magic: the genuine bonds between people, the infectious joy radiating from young faces, the rush of adrenaline after performing in the staff talent show, and yes, even those familiar bunk beds. It was exactly the kind of reset I desperately needed after my world had been turned upside down.
When Everything Changed
Twelve months earlier, my life looked completely different. Having spent the bulk of my career on the East Coast, where my roots ran deep, I'd made the bold decision at thirty-one to chase a dream job in entertainment media. That opportunity meant leaving behind my Jersey City apartment and everything familiar for the bright lights of Los Angeles.
Looking back now, the contrast is striking. Just a year ago, I was immersed in the fast-paced world of entertainment journalism—chasing breaking stories, conducting red carpet interviews, living what many would consider the ultimate media dream. The work was exhilarating, demanding, and everything I thought I wanted.
But the entertainment industry, like any business, has its unpredictable moments. Still, nothing could have prepared me for that devastating phone call in July 2024. The voice on the other end delivered the news with professional detachment: my position was being eliminated for the upcoming season. The words hit me like a physical blow, leaving me with a hollow ache in my chest and questions about what came next.
An Unexpected Path Forward
In the aftermath, I pivoted to a temporary role teaching digital marketing to high school seniors—helping them navigate the transition from academics to professional life. Looking back, this position may have been preparing me for my own unexpected journey ahead, though I couldn't see it at the time.
Then serendipity struck through social media. A close friend shared news of landing a month-long summer position at a sleepaway camp nestled in the countryside, roughly two hours north of New York City. Her Instagram post sparked something in me—curiosity, excitement, maybe even desperation for change. Without overthinking it, I submitted my application that very day.
Embracing the Unknown
As the camp's media director, my responsibilities centered around capturing and curating content—photographs and videos that would connect campers with their families back home while building the camp's social media presence. But perhaps more meaningfully, I led content creation workshops for enthusiastic nine and twelve-year-olds, sessions that reminded me why I'd fallen in love with storytelling in the first place.
The living situation presented its own adventure. After more than five years of solo living, the prospect of sharing space again felt daunting. Our staff quarters housed about twenty people in a sprawling facility complete with dual kitchens, corridors long enough for impromptu roller skating sessions (which I absolutely took advantage of), a communal lounge, a welcoming front porch, and shared bedrooms equipped with those iconic bunk beds.
Fortunately, my friend who'd introduced me to this opportunity became my roommate. Despite our conflicting schedules, we maximized our time together—including one memorable late-night session where our room transformed into a rehearsal space for the staff talent showcase.
The Magic of Simple Moments
This adventure gave me permission to pause, breathe deeply, and embrace a much-needed reset. Each morning began with nature's alarm clock—birds singing outside my window—followed by crisp, clean air and stunning views of towering trees. The nearby lake and extensive trail system became my playground and sanctuary.
Being away from my usual environment for an extended period forced me to reconnect with parts of myself I'd forgotten existed. I rediscovered what truly energizes and inspires me, gaining clarity about my desire to grow as a producer and storyteller.
Full Circle Moments
I wasn't expecting the emotional impact of this experience. During one of the camp's closing ceremonies, a young camper approached me with heartfelt gratitude, thanking me for capturing so many joyful moments that he and his family could treasure forever. The sincerity in his voice brought tears to my eyes—the good kind.
Working at a summer camp certainly wasn't part of my strategic career plan for 2025. But this unconventional detour has proven to be exactly what I needed—a reminder of who I am beneath all the professional expectations and setbacks.
Looking Forward
Since returning from camp, I've channeled my renewed energy into diversifying my creative pursuits: freelance writing, voice acting, public relations work, and volunteering. My immediate goal is to build a sustainable practice as a media consultant while developing mentorship opportunities for young people entering the industry.
Sometimes the most transformative experiences come disguised as detours. This summer taught me that stepping away from everything familiar isn't always a step backward—sometimes it's the perspective shift needed to move forward with purpose and clarity.