Frequently Asked Questions

Applying

To work at a summer camp in America is there a minimum age?
You have to be 18 years old as of June 1st 2010 if you wish to participate in the program.

How do I apply for USA Summercamp?
You can fill in the online application at any time. It's simple to fill in and gets the process of you having a great summer started!

How do I obtain any information that I can't find on the website?
You can visit one of our talks at universities and hotels. You can also email us at admin@usasummercamp.co.uk or call us on one of the telephone numbers provided on the 'Contact Us' page.

Can I come and see a presentation?
Yes!! Please look at the news feed on our homepage to find the nearest presentation to you or alternatively please contact admin@usasummercamp.co.uk and we'll let you know when we're in your area.

When does camp start?
Camp training will normally start between the 1st and the 20th of June but you may need to go a few days either side of this. Some camps start in May, so if you're available we can get you over to America earlier!

Can I go with a friend to camp?
We will always do our utmost to place you at a camp with a friend if you wish. Unfortunately, if this is not possible we will try to place you in a similar area or at the least the same state, so on days and evenings off you can see each other. You will get the best of both worlds as you'll be able to introduce each other to new friends and meet twice as many people!! You'll also be able to travel together after camp.

I can't commit to 9 weeks work.. shall I still apply?
Unfortunately we require you to be available for this period of time. Late start dates after 20th June are also harder to find places for.

Do I need experience working with children?
No you don't. Experience helps and is nice to see. Enthusiasm and a will to work with children, to work hard and have fun are the main assets we require!

Do I need to find my own flights and insurance?
USA Summercamp will help provide you with free return flights to America. We will also provide you with insurance during your stay at camp.

How do I make a payment?
On your profile you are able to make payments in the bottom right hand corner. You can also pay by clicking the payment link on this website (bottom left corner). Remember - check our "What You Pay" page to qualify for some great discounts! Save up to £100!

Your Profile...

How many references do I need to get?
We require you to get 3 references to us. These must be from professional people, ex employers, tutors, school teachers etc.
Getting the references is simple and really quick to get. The quicker you do it the easier it is for us to get you a camp.

Do I have to get a CRB certificate?
Yes! We will put a link on your profile page, which will allow you to download the relevant documents. If you currently have a CRB - this is great. We currently advice participants to get a police check done which is called an ACRO.
You'll also be required to get a medical history form signed by your GP and provide USA Summercamp with three references.

What are the implications of having a criminal record?
Unfortunately, you will not be eligible for the program if you have a criminal record.

Is there a deadline for my Police check, medical form and references to be completed?
USA Summercamp would like you to get these forms in to us with in two weeks of you being accepted at interview. All paperwork must be completed before the 31st March 2010.

When will I find out about my placement?
Placements run from the moment your profile is complete and we have at least 1 reference up until the end of June. The more effort you put into your profile - the more it stands out to camp. Earlier completion of your CRB/Police check and Medical Forms gives you a better chance of finding an earlier placement.

Should I be contacting camps myself?
USA Summercamp employs a very experienced and well-respected placement team that will speak to the hundreds of camps that we deal with on your behalf. Camps are very busy and you should not cold call them. However, if you're on review at that camp (this can be checked on your profile page) then you should defiantly get in touch and be very enthusiastic!!!!!

Visa

I'm scared about how hard it will be to get a visa..
All your Visa paper work will be taken care of by us. You will be notified of anything you need to take with you to the US Embassy for your interview. We will also arrange an interview for you on the date you request at the US Embassy in London where you'll receive your Visa.
Remember to request your appointment asap on your profile so you receive your visa with plenty of time to spare.

Do I need to go to the US Embassy to get my visa?
Every participant will have an appointment scheduled at the US Embassy in London or Belfast (which ever one suits you more). It's a very easy procedure and we will take care of all the arrangements.

What forms do I need to take to the US Embassy?
You will be sent all the links to the forms that you need well in advance but you'll be emailed a list of the forms you're required to fill in. The USA Summercamp staff working at the Embassy will hand over your DS2019 form and SEVIS receipt to you on the day of your interview.

After Camp

Can I try and see some of the States after camp?
Yes! You'll have at least a month's "grace" period before you have to leave the States so you can travel around America with friends from camp or from home. You can arrange this yourself by flying or driving around one of the most fun countries in the world, or you can let Trek America set you up with an adventure holiday and you will receive a 10% discount if you have completed your summer with USA Summercamp.

What are the best ways to travel?
There are great ways to go around America. On your own, with friends from camp, friends from home or even make new friends as you go!!
Organised trips like those from Trek America are great ways to see the sights safely and are brilliant ways of having fun!

Don't forget we're taking care of all the boring stuff for you. Everything is taken care of for you to make your life easier. Of course, if you'd like to know any more feel free to contact us by phone or email on our "contact us" page.