The American Institute for Foreign Study (Australia) Pty Ltd opened its Australian office in 1999 and began offering its Camp America and Au Pair in America programs to young Australians. In 2005, AIFS commenced offering inbound programs and currently facilitates cultural exchange programs for more than 2,000 young people.
Why did you decide to do Camp America?
I decided to do Camp America because I’ve always been fascinated by the cultural differences between Australia and the U.S, I wanted to do something different instead of going straight into university. Growing up watching movies and TV shows set in American summer camps, I’ve always wondered what it would be like to live out those experiences—campfires, canoeing, and all the classic moments that seem so iconic. After Covid I felt like stepping into something completely new and out of my comfort zone would help me grow and see the world from a different perspective. Camp America seemed like the perfect opportunity to do something adventurous and meaningful while building new skills and independence. On top of that, I love meeting new people who match my energy. The idea of being surrounded by vibrant, enthusiastic people from all over the world really appealed to me. I was excited about forming connections with like-minded individuals and creating memories that I’ll carry with me forever.
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What did camp teach you?
Camp taught me to be open-minded and embrace every challenge that came my way. While the work was tough, it showed me how much you can grow by stepping out of your comfort zone, but the effort you put in truly makes your experience 100% better than you would expect. I learned new skills, from leading activities, to mentoring kids, and gained a real sense of accomplishment. But the best part was the people I met—so many unique individuals from around the world who became lifelong friends.Camp brings you together in such a unique way, and the bonds you form often last a lifetime.
Favourite place to travel in the US and why?
One of my favorite places to travel in the US has to be North Carolina. I loved the natural beauty of the state, especially seeing bears for the first time and all the other amazing wildlife that’s so different from what we have in Australia. There’s something so peaceful about being surrounded by nature, and it gave me a real appreciation for the outdoors. Another place I really enjoyed was San Francisco. The city has such a safe, relaxed, and chill vibe, making it the perfect spot to unwind and reflect after the craziness and high energy of camp. Whether it was walking along the waterfront or exploring its iconic sights, it helped me recharge and feel grounded again. Both places are so different, but each offered something special that made them unforgettable
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Favourite Memory from camp?
My favourite memories from camp have to be the evenings spent off with friends. We’d head to Walmart and load up on all the snacks and things you could never get back home—it was always a fun little adventure. Taking trips to McDonald's to hang out, chatting and laughing, lying outside watching the stars and talking about the craziness of camp life until curfew, the nights on duty with the kids. Even though it was work, it was always such a fun time. Playing jacks, telling stories, and hosting fashion shows created some of the best bonds. Those moments were full of laughter and genuine connections, and I’ll always cherish them
Why would you recommend Camp America?
I would highly recommend Camp America to anyone looking to step out of their comfort zone and have an unforgettable adventure. It’s a fantastic way to travel, make money, and meet people from all over the world. You’re encouraged to embrace the fun, even if it means embarrassing yourself to make others smile—those moments are some of the most memorable. Beyond just the fun, the experience is life-changing. You’ll gain skills like teamwork, leadership, and adaptability, which are not only valuable for personal growth but also great for any future career. It’s a place where you get to connect with individuals you might never have crossed paths with back home, forming friendships that last a lifetime. The opportunity to be part of such a unique community and experience is something that will shape you in ways you never expected. Camp America offers so much more than just a summer job—it’s a truly amazing experience that I’d recommend to anyone!
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