Summer Camp 2025: Nensi Hayotsyan

HRI Summer Camp was truly one of the most unforgettable and life-changing experiences of my life, and I’m forever grateful that I had the opportunity to take part in such an enriching and transformative experience.

While I went in not knowing what to expect, I came out counting the days until I could be back. From the very first moment, I was greeted with so much love and passion from both the students and the staff alike. From dressing up in silly costumes and dancing around like a crazy person to welcome the kids, to sneaking in two-minute coffee breaks to recharge our energy, or spending my breaks playing durak with the kids, camp truly brought out a side of me I had never seen before.

Aside from the fun and lighthearted moments, being a counselor tested my limits and pushed me to grow and mature so much as a leader and an individual. Whether it was challenging myself to design creative and engaging classes or constantly reflecting on how I could be a better role model for my group, camp pushed me in the best way possible and taught me the true meaning
of teamwork, patience, and empathy.

Above all, camp reinforced the deep love and appreciation I have for my country and its people. Living abroad, it’s often hard for me to find meaningful ways to connect with my homeland, but having been born in Armenia, this experience reminded me of how strong that bond still is. Spending time with the kids and seeing their passion, curiosity, and kindness, and just how smart, driven, and full of love each one of them was, I left camp with a renewed sense of pride and the comforting realization that my heart truly belongs in Armenia.