Waukeela Magic

A Scholarship Application Essay written by 12 year old Liza McPherson

       Waukeela is a unique place, full of laughter, traditions, and especially friendships. When I learned that several of my closest friends would not be returning this year, I found myself wondering if I could possibly go to camp without them. Then I realized: my friends are a part of Waukeela, albeit an important one...and Waukeela is full of interesting people who I will easily bond with.  Perhaps going to camp without my closest buddies will be an excellent opportunity to make new ones, gain new experiences -- Waukeela will definitely be different, but hey, change is good! The magic of Waukeela is like the magic of the holidays -- it's always there if you just believe.

        Waukeela gives girls like me a chance to see the world in a way we never have before.  Not only do we make friends from all corners of the world, and in so doing gain empathy and understanding, but through hiking, white water, rock climbing and canoeing trips the wilderness also doesn't seem so dangerous after all.  Adventure and excitement are mine to behold at Waukeela.  Part of Waukeela's magic comes from the everlasting traditions and sense of community -- Waukeela is a place where I will always feel like I belong.  I may not have a beach house on Cape Cod or the south of France, but I do have Waukeela, and it is like a second home to me.  My life would truly not be the same if I didn't go to Waukeela each summer.