I feel like I could write a whole book on my experience at camp this past summer, so to describe the impact that the Oded program has had on my life in only one paragraph is nearly impossible! I guess over my years as a camper I have never really thought much about how hard my counselors must work to make sure that I am having the time of my life, but now I have a new respect for all of them. Being an Oded was exhausting, but also very rewarding. To have all of those campers looking up to you as a role model was really incredible. Along with learning how to work with young children, I feel as though I am better prepared to interact with all different types of people. As an elected 11th grade representative at my school who has been in student government since 8th grade, I can tell that my leadership skills have grown exponentially. I have created strong bonds with friends that will last a lifetime and I have brought home unforgettable memories that I think of very often. If I could I would do this all over again. The stuffy yurts; the overcrowded bathroom with the mud coated floors; the adorable campers who always want your attention; the freezing cold camping trip I had to come back early from; All of it I would do again. It was the best summer of my life!
-Mara Brashem, Oded 2010
Mara and many other Odedim dressed up as Oompa Loompas for the Bet Carnival
