Dates & Rates
- RSIT Crew 2July 29 – August 24 $2300
Riding-Staff-In-Training (RSIT) is a four weeklong, in-depth leadership and horsemanship program that builds confidence in working with campers and horses. RSITs develop these skills to work towards one day being camp staff members. RSITs work closely alongside Counselors-In-Training (CITs) but focus on working with horses as well as kids. CITs and RSITs join a long tradition of spirited, dedicated high school youth that love camp as well as working with youth. As a group, you’ll create unforgettable memories and lasting friendships. As individuals, you’ll grow in confidence, make a difference in kids’ lives, and be on your way to joining the talented Camp Sealth staff.
RSITs must be entering grades 10 in fall 2024, have extensive Western or English riding skills, have a high level of maturity, and be able to live and work closely with peers and adults. Previous experience with leadership and/or work with children is highly recommended. There is an application process for the RSIT program (see below), and it can be competitive.
Dates
There is one “crew” of RSITs each summer that combines with CIT Crew Two for a total of 16 participants, running for four weeks. All will go home every weekend after the session ends, except for one long stay-over weekend. Participants should be prepared to attend the entirety of their crew dates.
- CIT/RSIT Crew Two: Sessions 5-8 (July 29 – August 24) with stay-over weekend August 10-11
The CIT/RSIT program has a maximum capacity for each crew, and accepted applicants are not guaranteed their first preference of crew/dates. To maximize your chances of acceptance, you may need to keep your availability flexible.
What to Expect
The RSIT program combines many different elements to give teens a well-rounded experience and develop skills in multiple areas. Some of the activities and workshops are done in conjunction with the CIT training; RSITs separate from the group to work with the riding staff on horse-related skills.
RSITs will work directly with the riding staff to hone riding skills, learn the basics of lesson planning and teaching, and get the chance to shadow and assist with riding lessons. RSITs will participate with the CITs in leadership workshops focusing on areas like goal setting and decision-making. They will gain hands-on experience through planning and leading an All-Camp Event as well as other camp activities. Other program components include a service project, a trip to visit other local camps, as well as some time to just relax and enjoy classic camp activities.
Goals of the CIT/RSIT program:
- Youth will grow in confidence and gain leadership, and horsemanship skills.
- Youth will learn and observe the behavior management of both children and horses.
- Youth will acquire competencies to thrive in cooperative and team focused settings.
- Youth will develop an understanding of how to work effectively with children and horses.
How to Apply
The CIT/RSIT programs foster independence and leadership in teens. All parts of the application must be completed by the teen applicant, not by their parents/guardians. If we determine that an application has been completed by a parent, the applicant will not be accepted. We also highly recommend that the teen applicant, rather than the parent/guardian, communicate with camp staff during their application process.
- Online Application, Opens in December!
- Personal Statement
- One Reference
Characteristics we look for:
- Interest in personal growth and a willingness to accept feedback.
- Interest in working with younger children.
- Interest in being an active community member.
- Ability to work cooperatively in a team.
- Ability to commit to the entire program.
- Eagerness and willingness to learn.
Criteria for Acceptance:
Application for the CIT program at Camp Sealth is competitive. Pay close attention to the application requirements listed below.
- Entering grade 10 in Fall 2024.
- All parts of the application were completed on time, with thorough and thoughtful responses. This includes:
- Online Application Form
- Personal Statement
- Reference
CIT/RSIT applicants do not need to have been a previous participant at Camp Sealth or in Camp Fire programs. Acceptance and completion of the CIT program does not necessarily mean that a teen will be accepted into the LEAD program or hired as a staff member.
If you are interested in experiencing our Teen Leadership Program to see if it is the right fit for you, check out the Teen Leadership Retreat offered in January.