Dates & Registration
- RSIT Crew Two, July 24 – August 12, Grade: 10, Camp Sealth
- RSIT Crew Three, August 7 – August 27, Grade: 10, Camp Sealth
Apply For RSIT Here
Description
Riding-Staff-In-Training (RSIT) is a three week long, in-depth leadership and horsemanship program that builds confidence in working with kids and horses, and develops skills to work towards being a camp staff member. 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 and want to work with kids. 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 2023, 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 & Cost
RSIT is offered twice this summer, during Crews 2 & 3 of the CIT program.
- RSIT Crew Two: Sessions 4-6 (July 24 – August 12)
- RSIT Crew Three: Sessions 6 – 8 (August 7 – 26)
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. With the CITs, participate in leadership workshops focusing on areas like goal-setting and decision-making. Gain hands-on experience through planning and leading an All Camp Event and camp activities. Other program components include a service project as well as some time to just relax and enjoy some 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 gain skills for working in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
● Youth will develop an understanding of how to work effectively with children and horses.
Dates
There are three “crews” of CITs each summer; each crew consists of 16 participants and runs for three weeks. CITs will go home the first weekend of their crew, and stay on camp the second weekend. CITs should be prepared to attend the entirety of their crew dates.
- CIT Crew One: Sessions 2-4 (July 10 – July 29) with stayover weekend July 22-23
- CIT/RSIT Crew Two: Sessions 4-6 (July 24 – August 12) with stayover weekend August 5-6
- CIT/RSIT Crew Three: Sessions 6-8 (August 7 – 26) with stayover weekend August 19-20
Note: The CIT 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.
Cost
- Tier A: $1,600
- Tier B: $1,700
- Tier C: $1,800
What is Tiered Pricing?
Camp Sealth offers tiered pricing as a way for families to invest in our camp and facilities. By offering three voluntary price options, you can choose to pay the option that best fits your family’s financial situation. The choice is voluntary, confidential, and will not impact your child’s camp experience in any way. Financial aid is available to eligible teens. More information about tiered pricing can be found here.
How to Apply
There are three parts to the application – all parts must be submitted by May 1 in order to be considered. Acceptance is based on the criteria listed below. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status via email within two weeks of the deadline. We recommend that CIT and RSIT applicants register for another camp program as a back-up option; if accepted, you’ll be automatically transferred (along with any fees you’ve paid) into the CIT program.
Application Deadline: Rolling – Apply today for Summer 2023!
Waitlist: Applicants who are not accepted into the program will be placed on the waitlist, and will be notified should a spot open up. Waitlisted applicants are recommended to look into our Seattle Day Camp teen leadership opportunities.
- Part One: Online application – open in December!
- Part Two: Personal Statement. Write a personal statement (400+ words) describing why you want to be a CIT this summer. Submit your personal statement to teenleadership@campfireseattle.org. In your personal statement, answer the following:
- Why do you want to be a CIT or RSIT?
- What do you hope to gain and/or learn from this experience?
- Describe a time when you were a part of a team.
- Part Three: Reference. References are not automated by submitting the online application. Send this link to someone who can speak to your suitability for the CIT program, such as teacher, advisor, supervisor, coach, clergy, neighbor, or family friend (no peer friends or relatives). Only one reference is required, but you may submit more than one if desired.
Application Note: 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 the application process.
Criteria for Acceptance:
Application for the CIT/RSIT program at Camp Sealth is competitive. Pay close attention to the application requirements listed below.
- Entering grade 10 in Fall 2023
- All parts of the application completed on time, with thorough and thoughtful responses:
- Online application form
- Personal Statement
- Reference
- Applicants do not need to have been a previous participant at Camp Sealth or in Camp Fire programs. If you are interested in sampling our teen leadership program to see if it is the right fit for you, check out the Teen Leadership Retreat offered in January.
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
- Willingness to learn
Application Deadline: Rolling – Apply today for Summer 2023!
Please note: Acceptance and completion of the CIT/RSIT program do not necessarily mean that a teen will be accepted into the LEAD program or hired as a staff member.
Apply for RSIT Here