Camp Counselor

Welcome Camp 2026  – Camp Counselor  

 EF High School Exchange Year 
Thornwood, NY 

EF High School Exchange Year is seeking positive, energetic, and responsible individuals to work with international high school exchange students at its Welcome Camp program held on the EF Academy campus in Thornwood, NY. EF Welcome Camp provides participating exchange students with a memorable New York City experience, valuable communication skills, and strong bonds with other exchange students before they embark on their high school exchange year. 

The ideal candidate:                    

Has the desire and ability to work with teenagers 

Is able to lead small group activities and is comfortable leading in a classroom setting 

Has a passion for cultural exchange, travel, and education 

Is enthusiastic, patient, creative, flexible and has a great sense of humor 

Has a “nothing is impossible” attitude and is willing to go the extra mile to give students the best possible start to their exchange year 

Has exceptional problem-solving skills and the ability to make decisions quickly 

Has stamina to work in a fast-paced program that includes some late night and early morning shifts 

Is comfortable in an airport/ assisting students with check-in processes 

If 21+, has driver's license and would be comfortable driving a minivan or 15-passenger van 

Is familiar with the exchange student experience and community 

Camp Counselors will guide approximately 20 students through hands-on orientation activities and classroom content, supervise students on a trip to Manhattan, assist with student arrivals and departures, and overall help students feel reassured and excited about their exchange year.  

EF Welcome Camp is broken up into four (4) sessions and includes Senior Staff and all-staff trainings as detailed below. Preference will be given to candidates who can attend all sessions. 

Camp Counselors are estimated to work around 45-60 hours per week at $16/hour, with any overtime hours being paid at time and a half. Camp Counselors are responsible for their transportation to and from the Welcome Camp location.  All summer roles are provided room and board for the duration of the program. Camp Counselors are required to complete two online training modules to familiarize themselves with the EF High School Exchange Year program and attend a training prior to students’ arrival.