'I've never looked back' – Kildare native on USIT Camp USA experience

A Maynooth native has opened up about her experiences travelling through USIT's Camp USA programme, and about her time spent working at Fernwood Cove, an all-girls summer camp in Maine.

Ciara McDonald, who recently qualified as a secondary school teacher, has spent the past three summers at Fernwood Cove, having first travelled through USIT's Camp USA programme in 2024.

Ciara originally planned to travel in 2023 but was so nervous about the prospect that she backed out.

She reconsidered the following year and hasn't looked back since.

Over her three summers in the USA, Ciara worked as a paddle sports instructor, taught water-skiing and wakeboarding, and most recently helped deliver a leadership programme for 16-year-old girls.

She's also travelled extensively across the US, visiting Boston, Miami, Orlando and Washington DC, alongside exploring Maine and New Hampshire.

Ciara says: "I originally planned to sign up for summer 2023 but got too nervous and backed out. However, when I saw an advertisement in January 2024 for summer 2024, I took it as a sign that I should go.

"I was extremely nervous and did not know what I had signed myself up for. I was unaware of the magic that awaited me on the other side of that seven-hour flight. I knew I wanted to have a more meaningful summer, though, so I ignored the fear and went anyway. I can honestly say I've never looked back."

Having recently qualified as a secondary school teacher, Ciara believes the experience has given her invaluable skills for her future career.

"From leadership, communication and problem-solving to adapting to different personalities and needs, I have gained so many valuable experiences that I can bring back into my own classroom.

"I now have friends on almost every continent! Camp has pushed me so far outside my comfort zone and allowed me to grow immensely as a person."

Ciara also speaks fondly of watching the young girls in her care overcome their own fears, from completing swimming tests to tackling the camp zip line.

Camp USA 2027

USIT will host its Camp USA hiring fair on 22 January at the Camden Court Hotel, Dublin, as US summer camps begin recruiting earlier than usual for the 2026 season.

Walk-ins will be accepted on the day, allowing applicants to meet camp employers face-to-face and interview for roles on the spot.

US summer camps are actively seeking Irish candidates with in-demand skills, including lifeguarding, tennis, sailing, gymnastics, arts and crafts, archery and horse-riding, alongside applicants with experience working with children and outdoor activities. Those unable to attend in person can also interview through upcoming virtual recruitment events.

For 2026, USIT has integrated its Camp USA programme with BUNAC, its sister brand and the global market leader in camp placements. Irish applicants will begin their application through the USIT platform, receiving local Irish support throughout the process, before being matched, placed and processed via BUNAC for contracts, payments and camp logistics. This approach combines on-the-ground Irish guidance with BUNAC’s global camp network and expertise.

USIT’s €339 programme package includes camp placement, food and accommodation, medical insurance, DS-2019 work papers, J1 visa support and up to 30 days of travel in the US after camp. Participants receive a minimum payment of $2,300 directly from their camp employer at the end of the summer, subject to role and hours worked.

Camp placements typically run for eight to ten weeks from early June to late August and are open to applicants aged 18 to 30. The programme suits students, graduates and those seeking a paid summer abroad that also builds leadership, responsibility and practical life skills.

Further details are available at www.usit.ie/experiences/summer-camps/