By Lydia Feldhusen
This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to spend two weeks at Interlochen Center for the Arts, a summer camp in northern Michigan where students from all over the world come together to learn, create, and grow.
During my time there, I took classes in creative writing, music, acting, art, and environmental exploration. Each class offered something completely different, and I loved how every day felt like a new adventure. In creative writing, we spent time brainstorming ideas and crafting stories. In music, I learned how to play boomwhackers and tried bucket drumming, which was so much fun. Acting class pushed me out of my comfort zone as we wrote and performed our own short play, and in art class, I got to create a colorful alebrije sculpture, inspired by traditional Mexican folk art. My environmental exploration class took us outdoors, where I learned about sedimentary rocks and discovered how exciting it can be to study nature up close.
Life at camp was just as special as the classes. I made friends from all over the world and enjoyed bunk talks, cabin nights, and journaling. Even though I felt a little homesick at first, my counselors and cabin mates helped me feel right at home. One of my favorite memories was dancing with my cabinmates at lunchtime—everyone laughing, being silly, and just having fun together.
The staff at Interlochen were so kind and encouraging, and I always felt supported to try new things. I learned a lot about the arts, but I also learned a lot about myself—how to be brave, creative, and open to new experiences.
I also want to say a heartfelt thank you to my community for the support and generosity that helped make this experience possible. Donations and encouragement from friends, family, and local supporters helped cover the cost of my tuition, and I’m so grateful to live in a place that believes in giving young people opportunities to follow their dreams.
My two weeks at Interlochen were truly unforgettable, and I’ll always be grateful for the friends I made, the art I created, and the memories that will stay with me forever. I am one of 70 students in the USA that was chosen to be a Camp Ambassador for Interlochen throughout the year and am planning to return to summer camp again for a second year in July 2026. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about attending summer camp, I would be happy to answer any questions you may have or get you in touch with someone from Interlochen.
