Counselor in Training CIT Program 2027 Genius Gems Millburn

Lead the Way. Shape Tomorrow.

Genius Gems Counselor in Training (CIT) Program – Summer

A transformational summer experience at Genius Gems for students currently in grades 8–10, where you'll build leadership, gain real-world skills, and inspire young learners.

  • Millburn, NJ
  • Summer 2027
  • Current Grades 8-10
  • Pathway to Paid Staff

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What is the CIT Program?

The Genius Gems CIT (Counselor in Training) Program is your chance to develop real leadership skills while making a difference. Work alongside experienced educators, support young STEM learners, and gain hands-on experience that stands out on college applications.

Why Join the CIT Program?

Bottom Line: this is a life-changing opportunity to grow as a leader while making a real impact.

  • Leadership & Communication Skills — Develop essential skills in leadership, communication, and professional collaboration that will serve you throughout your life and career
  • Hands-On STEM & Classroom Support — Engage with cutting-edge STEM projects, support campers with hands-on activities, and gain practical teaching experience
  • Resume + Volunteer Hour Value — Stand out with meaningful leadership experience, verified volunteer hours for NHS, and boost your college applications
  • Mentorship from Professionals — Learn directly from experienced Genius Gems mentors and STEM professionals through weekly training and one-on-one guidance
  • Make Friends & Build Community — Connect with like-minded peers, build lasting friendships, and become part of a supportive community of young leaders
  • Path to Paid Positions — CITs aged 16+ who go above and beyond—demonstrated excellence in leadership and professionalism—may be offered paid staff roles after the summer. Never guaranteed, and many CITs return for a second summer first.

What You'll Do as a CIT

As a Counselor in Training, you'll be at the heart of the action—supporting campers, leading activities, and gaining invaluable hands-on experience.

  • Assist with Camp Groups — Work alongside campers and guide them through exciting activities
  • Lead Activities & Missions — Take charge of engaging challenges and help bring camp magic to life
  • Support STEM Challenges — Help facilitate robotics, coding, design bar, and engineering workshops
  • Assist with Projects — Support campers with magnetic tiles, circuits, and hands-on builds
  • Make Camp Experiences Fun & Memorable — Help create engaging, unforgettable moments that inspire campers and bring energy to every day
  • Build Connections — Form meaningful relationships with campers, staff, and fellow CITs

Genius Gems CIT Program at a Glance

  • Program: Leadership training for students currently in grades 8–10 (rising 9th–11th graders in Fall 2027)
  • Location: Millburn, NJ (onsite commitment)
  • Dates: Summer 2027 (11 weeks available)
  • Experience: Train alongside Genius Gems mentors, STEM professionals, and camp leaders
  • Who Should Apply: Students currently in grades 8–10 who want real-world leadership experience

Summer 2027 weeks

  • Week 1 — 2027-06-21 to 2027-06-25
  • Week 2 (4-day week) — 2027-06-28 to 2027-07-01
  • Week 3 (4-day week — no camp Mon July 5) — 2027-07-06 to 2027-07-09
  • Week 4 — 2027-07-12 to 2027-07-16
  • Week 5 — 2027-07-19 to 2027-07-23
  • Week 6 — 2027-07-26 to 2027-07-30
  • Week 7 — 2027-08-02 to 2027-08-06
  • Week 8 — 2027-08-09 to 2027-08-13
  • Week 9 — 2027-08-16 to 2027-08-20
  • Week 10 — 2027-08-23 to 2027-08-27
  • Week 11 (CBI only) — 2027-08-30 to 2027-09-03

Life as a CIT

See what your summer could look like—moments of learning, leadership, and fun from past CIT programs.

Four teen counselors-in-training in purple Genius Gems shirts stand beside a tall rainbow magnetic-tile tower in the Millburn summer camp hall while a young camper builds on the floor behind them.
CITs help campers build big — this tower took a whole team.
Four teen counselors-in-training in blue and purple Genius Gems shirts pose with four young campers in the Millburn summer camp hall.
CITs are the campers' role models all summer long.
Three teen Genius Gems summer staff in green and purple team shirts smile in front of the Genius Gems logo wall at the Millburn location.
Summer staff at the Millburn location.
A Genius Gems staff member kneels with a small dog on a pink leash as summer campers in yellow STEM Summer Camp shirts reach out to pet it.
A furry visitor during a Millburn camp afternoon.
Three young Genius Gems summer campers in STEM Summer Camp shirts climb and smile on a yellow playground structure outdoors.
Outdoor play is part of every camp day.

Training & Mentorship

We provide comprehensive training to ensure you're prepared and confident in your role.

Mandatory in-person training: one afternoon in early June (date announced in the spring)
Genius Gems Millburn · 215 Millburn Avenue, Millburn, NJ 07041

  • Weekly Training Sessions — Regular workshops covering leadership, communication, safety, and activity facilitation
  • Expert Mentorship — One-on-one guidance from Genius Gems mentors and STEM professionals
  • Skill Development Workshops — Coaching in problem-solving, responsibility, teamwork, and professional communication

Path to Paid Positions

The CIT program isn't just a summer experience—it's a gateway to real career opportunities and professional growth. Paid positions go to CITs who are 16 or older and go above and beyond; many return as CITs for more than one summer first, and completing the program does not guarantee an offer.

Program investment: $150/week.

  • Paid Staff Opportunity — CITs who are 16 or older and go above and beyond our expectations, with demonstrated excellence in leadership and professionalism, may be invited to join Genius Gems as paid part-time associates. Not guaranteed by completing the program.
  • Volunteer Hours for NHS & College — Earn verified hours that count toward National Honor Society and college applications
  • Letters of Recommendation — Receive official recognition and recommendation letters from Genius Gems mentors for college apps
  • Career Skills & Future Network — Build connections with Genius Gems mentors, professionals, and peers that benefit you for years

Hear From Our CITs

Working as a CIT at Genius Gems allowed me to learn the basics of being a counselor, such as leading and demonstrating activities, teaching kids, and using the resources available at Genius Gems. As a CIT, I was able to understand the fundamentals of the establishment and it is an incredible, educational activity that I would highly recommend.

Alisha · Former CIT, Now Paid Staff • Millburn High School

The Genius Gems CIT program gave me an amazing opportunity to work with kids, manage logistics, and handle real-time challenges that most summer programs never expose you to. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a meaningful, real-world experience.

Ari · Former CIT • Newark Academy

Where Our CITs Come From

CITs have joined us from these schools, and we welcome applicants from every school in the area.

  • Columbia High School seal Columbia High School
  • Golda Och Academy logo Golda Och Academy
  • Millburn High School logo Millburn High School
  • Morristown-Beard School logo Morristown-Beard School
  • Newark Academy logo Newark Academy

Frequently Asked Questions

What ages/grades are eligible for the CIT program?

The CIT program is open to students currently in grades 8, 9, or 10 (rising 9th, 10th, and 11th graders in Fall 2027). Participants should be available during Summer 2027 in the Millburn, NJ area.

Is training provided?

Yes! We provide comprehensive training including weekly training sessions, mentorship from Genius Gems mentors, and ongoing coaching in leadership, communication, and STEM facilitation skills.

Is there a required training session before camp starts?

Yes, all CITs must attend a mandatory in-person training session at Genius Gems Millburn (215 Millburn Avenue, Millburn, NJ 07041) one afternoon in early June — the date is announced in the spring. This orientation covers essential program information, safety protocols, and teaching strategies to prepare you for working with campers.

What is expected of CITs?

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What is the program fee and what does it cover?

The CIT program requires a $150 per week investment. This fee covers the application process, comprehensive training (both prior to and during camp), supplies, and program overhead. The fee is the same whatever your availability — there is no reduced fee for attending part of a week or part of a day.

How many hours per week is the commitment?

CITs work the full camp day, 9 AM to 3 PM, Monday through Friday, for every week they enroll in, at whichever of our Millburn sites they are placed (the CBI full-day camp or Genius Gems Millburn). We ask for a commitment of at least 2 weeks. A part-day option is offered only when we have the availability and the need for it — it is not something you can choose at sign-up.

Which age group will I work with?

Wherever you are needed most. Camp leadership places CITs with the age group that needs support each week, and placements can change during the summer. Flexibility is part of the role — every group is a chance to learn something new.

Does the program count for volunteer hours and college applications?

Eligible CIT participants may be able to count verified service hours toward NHS requirements, depending on their school's chapter policies. We provide signed verification and supervisor documentation, but final approval is made by each school. Hours can also be included in college or scholarship applications.

Can CIT participants request references for college applications?

Yes! CITs who complete the program successfully can request letters of recommendation from Genius Gems mentors. These letters highlight your leadership skills, dedication, and contributions to the program.

What happens after the summer program ends?

CITs who are 16 or older and have gone above and beyond our expectations — with demonstrated excellence in leadership and professionalism — may be offered paid part-time work with after-school programs, weekend events, or a future summer. Many students return as CITs for more than one summer before that step. Completing the CIT program does not guarantee an offer of employment.

Where is the program located?

The CIT program takes place in Millburn, New Jersey. Full day camp sessions are held at CBI (160 Millburn Avenue, Millburn, NJ 07041), and our half day program is located at Genius Gems Millburn (215 Millburn Avenue, Millburn, NJ 07041). CITs are placed at whichever site needs them, so participants should be able to travel to and from both Millburn locations regularly throughout the summer.

What should CITs bring each day?

CITs are responsible for packing their own lunch, water, and snacks for each day of the program. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle and nutritious snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day while working with campers.

What is the Cancellation, Payment & Attendance Commitment Policy?

policy-modal

Ready to Join Our Team?

Don't miss your chance to be part of something special. Apply now to secure your spot!

Submit Your Application · CIT expectations