CIT Program
The Fessenden Counselor In Training (CIT) program is a two-year program designed to develop campers entering Grades 9 and 10 into confident, compassionate leaders. Our Counselors-in-Training (CITs) learn how to harness their own innate leadership qualities as well as new skills that will help them take on meaningful roles at camp, at home, at school, and in their communities.
Fessenden Summer Camps CIT Application Process:
There is an application process for the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program that is outside of our online registration. Admission to the CIT Program is limited and acceptance is not guaranteed. Applicants must be entering 9th grade. Applicants must attend for a minimum of 4 weeks each year. We encourage attending additional weeks. Those who can make a longer commitment may receive priority in acceptance to the program.
To view the CIT application, please click the link below. All potential CITs must complete the application process prior to February 15th, 2025.
CIT Graduate Program
This program is available only for second year CITs who will be at least 15 years of age during the camp season. Second year CITs who register for the full 8 week season, may be invited to join the staff as a Junior Counselor after 4 weeks. These CITs must display maturity, a strong work ethic and the ability to be role models for our campers. CITs who meet these criteria and are interested in becoming a counselor for the second half of the season will be paid the hourly Junior Counselor rate and must complete all employment paperwork and background checks successfully. The CIT Director will discuss this process with all eligible CITs and their parents during the CIT interview process
CITs:
Learn valuable leadership skills by observing and shadowing camp counselors and specialists
Get hands-on, childcare experience aiding staff in their duties
Gain an understanding of leadership by attending meetings and training sessions
Make new friendships with other CITs during CIT team building events and trips
Meet Our CIT Director
Gerard Wilson CIT Director 22 Years at Fessenden
This will be Gerard’s 22nd summer at Fessenden. He has been a senior counselor in both the middle camp and upper camps. He was the woodworking specialist for four years and will be starting his ninth year as the CIT Director in 2025. Gerard has been a teacher at St John’s Preparatory School in Danvers for over 30 years. He also works part-time at the Countryside Children’s Center (K-6 program) in Newton Upper Falls. He has been a teacher there for over fifteen years.
