Let me introduce myself

I'm Emily R and I live in Westport. I am the Camp Expert representing families throughout Connecticut.

My first bunk

I spent several summers at Camp Echo Lake in the beautiful Adirondacks. I still keep in touch with camp friends and have wonderful memories of playing tennis, going to concerts at Saratoga Performing Arts Center, color war, waterskiing on Lake George and much more.

From camper to camp expert

I was previously in Corporate Human Resources and have a degree in Organizational Psychology. This background and training has helped me focus on being a "people person" and a good listener when families describe what they are looking for in a camp.

Ultimate camp highlight

My all-time favorite camp activity was playing tennis against other camps (intercamps). It was fun to go on the bus with my friends and win or lose, we would get treated to Stewarts ice cream on the way home!

Why I love this job

I absolutely love listening to what each child's unique characteristics and interests are and then finding the best summer program for them. This matching process is a challenge at times but very satisfying.

My home bunk

My husband and I have two boys in college. One plays lacrosse at Colby College and the other is a senior at Indiana University/Kelley School of Business. They both went to Camp Mah-Kee-Nac in Lenox, MA and had the best experience ever!  My husband went to camp in the Poconos, Camp Twin HIlls, which does not exist anymore.  I also have an adorable 52 pound labradoodle named Kobe.

Why I feel camp is a valuable experience

Camp is so important. It allows kids to be off their screens and to be present with their peers in nature. It is a huge growth experience and a chance for kids to learn independence and important life skills. Camp creates an experience separate from their home life and school which is very important for their identity.