Pre-Camp Journey: From First-year Students to Leaders

By Carter White, Class of 2027 Elle Gaucher, Class of 2027

Mar. 09, 2026

Juniors Elle Gaucher and Carter White knew little about something called Pre-Camp at Springfield College when they arrived their first year. Having signed up to participate in the student-run program to help first-year students get a head start on their college experience, the two were a little nervous about the unknown. But those emotions were quickly allayed by the end of the first night of the four-day, three-night program before the start of the semester. Elle and Carter’s experiences at Pre-Camp were so powerful that they continued their involvement, and now, two years later, they serve as the program’s co-chairs. Learn more about their Pre-Camp journey.

On August 27, 2023, we showed up to East Campus, confronted by lines of screaming Pre-Camp leaders. We had just been dropped off by our parents, hours after moving into a new home, not knowing what was in store for us. Little did we know, our lives would be changed within days.

We both had similar emotions coming in. Elle was nervous, looking for a fresh start and Carter was just nervous about making meaningful connections with new people. But both of our fears vanished that first night. Learning that our leaders were personality-matched to us, and then getting to spend that quality time to really feel how true that was, made us both feel so comforted. It was also so awesome to be able to connect with the other one-to-two campers also paired with our leader. Those small foundations created a stability to reach out and explore connections with all the other campers and leaders.

Pre-Camp is a roller coaster of events crammed into four days and three nights. There is something for everyone here to love and feel loved. Throughout sessions run by the leaders, including team-bonding, vulnerability, and plain, simple fun, we gained connection. We like to keep some important traditions during Pre-Camp, like a themed dance party and, of course, camp cheers. During some of the team bonding exercises, campers may get to experience East Campus’ low ropes course, and also participate in many outdoor games. Our vulnerability exercises and leader-ran sessions are best kept a surprise for incoming campers to ensure they get the most out of Pre-Camp, but we want to emphasize that there really is something here for everyone!

By the end of Pre-Camp, we both knew this was something bigger we both wanted to be a part of. We can’t spoil what happens, but can only emphasize how meaningful this experience was and the connections just continued on past Pre-Camp.

We were both fortunate enough to be selected as leaders by the co-chairs of Pre-Camp at the time (who were also named Carter and Elle! Pretty ironic). We had gone through a long application process at the beginning of the year involving a written application, an individual interview, and a group interview. It was an honor to be seen by these leaders, and to be two of the 12 new Pre-Camp leaders selected that year. Although we were new to being Pre-Camp leaders, we knew we wanted to contribute to this experience for the incoming first-year students and give them the same experience we had coming to Springfield College.

As leaders, we go to a retreat, trainings, and meetings to really bond with each other and also learn about ourselves. Although it may sound like a lot of work, we truly have so much fun, cry together, and appreciate one another on a level we didn’t think was previously possible. The time we spend together throughout the school year is what helps us become so comfortable with the uncomfortable, and be there for the new students we will have just met.

Once again, we returned to East Campus, maybe even more nervous than before, wanting to create the same amazing space that our leaders had made for us. But once we sat down with our campers, it just felt like the magic was back. You feel so excited for them, and it feels indescribable to be able to watch your own campers begin their journey and grow. It really feels like a family.

We decided to take on a bigger role in this program our junior year. Now serving as co-chairs, looking back at those first couple of days as campers, we recognize how much we have grown because of Pre-Camp, and how much we want to give back. As co-chairs of this program, we are in charge of the Pre-Camp leader application process. This past semester, we had 70-plus applications, which meant we also conducted 70-plus individual interviews with campers looking to become leaders. On top of that, we also created a group interview process to really see who would be a perfect fit for the program. We also run the weekly meetings, facilitate our retreat as well as our training, create merch for the program, and most importantly, run Pre-Camp.

The co-chair role for us has been nothing short of an amazing experience so far. Yes, some days get very busy, but more importantly, it prepares us for our future. We’ve definitely gained some new skills, including facilitating a large group of people, time management, better public speaking, and without a doubt, a better sense of planning while also creating meaningful experiences.

We want every first-year to have an experience like we did. We want them to feel included, seen, but most importantly, want them to walk out with 120 new friends, campers, and leaders alike. Pre-Camp is not just the four days, but the connections and lessons you gain continue on through college, and for some, even the rest of their lives.

Message to incoming first-year students: If applying to Pre-Camp crossed your mind, even a little bit, embrace the spontaneity and do it! Applications are super easy (literally should take no longer than 10 minutes) and you are guaranteed to gain something meaningful by the end of the four days. You are in the same boat as 84 other campers, looking to make friends and get a head start on your days here at Springfield College!

About the author

Elle Gaucher, Class of 2027

Elle Gaucher is a junior in the Physician Assistant Studies program at Springfield College. She loves being involved on campus in different groups, such as Pre-Camp and Monologues, and helping new students feel connected as they start their Springfield College experience.

About the author

Carter White, Class of 2027

Granby, Mass., native Carter White is a junior in the Health Science major at Springfield College. He chose Springfield College for its welcoming community and friendly campus atmosphere. Passionate about leadership, he actively takes on many roles across campus, including resident assistant; Student Government Association; Summer Orientation, Advising and Registration; and, of course, Pre-Camp, to help foster collaboration and engagement among students. In his studies, he is dedicated to health science, focusing on understanding wellness and ways to promote healthy living through the sciences. He values both the opportunities for personal growth and the chance to make a positive impact on those around him.