Inside the Camp Counselors experience.
The Camp Counselor Program is BridgeUSA's summer season built specifically around young people and skills. It's designed for post-secondary students, youth mentors, and teachers who are comfortable around children and have something specific to share — a sport, a craft, a performance skill, a language — at a U.S. summer camp.
Camps vary widely: sports-focused, arts-focused, faith-based, camps for children with disabilities, and everything between. Whatever the setting, the days are full — leading activities, mentoring campers, and living alongside a team of counselors from all over the world. It's short by BridgeUSA standards, but it's often described as one of the most immersive, high-energy options on this list.
Like the Exchange Visitor Program - Student category, this one doesn't allow extensions, so HRI helps you plan your placement and any post-program travel around a fixed return date from the start.
What HRI generally looks for.
Every case is reviewed individually with an HRI Account Coordinator — this is a starting guide, not a guarantee.
- Comfortable spending long days caring for children and young people
- A specific skill, sport, or talent you can bring to a camp setting
- Proficient enough in English to lead activities and stay safe
- A current student, youth mentor, or licensed teacher
- Available for the full length of your school's long academic break
From your first question to your homecoming.
Free initial consultation
We walk through the program, timeline, and a fee estimate together, so you know exactly what to expect.
Matching & documentation
We help gather your paperwork and coordinate with our U.S. sponsor partner toward your DS-2019.
Visa interview preparation
Mock interviews and a document review before your embassy appointment.
Pre-departure orientation
Practical preparation covering housing, budgeting, and day-to-day life in the U.S.
24/7 support while you’re there
Local and U.S. partner support for the full length of your program.
Homecoming & re-integration
A debrief, your completion documents, and a standing invitation to HRI’s alumni community back home.
Common questions about Camp Counselors.
Almost anything useful at camp — swimming, music, drama, a sport, arts and crafts, or even a language. Your account coordinator can help you identify how to present yours.
Up to four months, timed to the long break between academic years. Like the Exchange Visitor Program - Student category, extensions aren't permitted.
It helps, but it's not required — what matters most is your comfort with children and the specific skill you bring.
Most camps provide on-site housing and meals as part of the program; HRI confirms these details with you before you commit.
Other BridgeUSA Programs.
Ready to start your Camp Counselors journey?
Reach out and an HRI Account Coodinator will confirm your eligibility, walk through fees, and map out your timeline — no obligation.