Kyle is a popular face at Camp Spring Creek (he even started a mullet trend at camp last summer) and we are delighted to welcome him back for his third summer. This year, Kyle is trading his counselor hat for a tutor hat and he’s ready to experience camp from a tutor’s perspective. Although he’s switching roles, I’m sure he’ll still be very involved in all the fun happenings at camp.
Tell us where you’re from. If you have a first-time visitor, what would you make sure they experience in your city?
I'm from Melbourne, Australia, and while we may not be the best tourist destination there's still so much to explore and do. I would take a first-timer through Queen Victoria market, down to Fed Square, and along the Yarra River. I would advise to come during our winter though so I could take them to the MCG and experience live AFL.
How did you become interested in tutoring and Orton-Gillingham?
After spending two summers at camp it felt like the natural progression on my journey, and with already having classroom experience through my job at home it really felt like an easy decision to make. Watching the kids grow during camp as well as reading their letters hung up around the dining room walls, I knew I wanted to be a part of their journey and help them grow and develop their skills.
What do you love most about working at camp?
The atmosphere. Camp creates a fun-loving, open-minded environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.
What are some of your best memories from camp?
Everyday? Having a camper scare me in the middle of the night, watching one of my swimming students win a treading water competition after doubting themselves, caving in Tennessee, Wilsons Creek! There are so many!
What might campers be surprised to learn about you?
Everyone always gets shocked and doesn’t believe me when I say I’m colorblind, so maybe that? Or that I can lick my elbow.
What made you want to return to Camp Spring Creek for a third summer?
It feels like a home away from home, and I truly am the best version of myself at camp.
What are you looking forward to the most this summer?
Challenging myself with the change of role and creating a bond with my students.
What was your favorite book series as a child?
Once by Morris Gletzman. But my favorite book-to-movie franchise is probably Harry Potter for the nostalgia.
You worked as a counselor for two summers, and are now transitioning into a tutoring role. How do you anticipate your experience as a tutor will differ from being a counselor?
I expect it to be more rewarding because I'll see the growth firsthand and be able to create a strong connection with my students to instill confidence and joy into them.
What do you do during the school year?
I currently work as an OSHC educator, so I play games, help with homework, and cook food for kids before they start school and when they've finished.
Ask me about the time I… spent a month road-tripping around America hiking in different national parks. More specifically, let me brag about Yosemite within earshot of Anina.
