Account Coordinator, NPRP Media
Name: Connor Queen
Summers as a Camper: Wasn't a camper
Years as a Staff Member/Positions held: 3 years
- 2016: Senior Counselor, Riflery Staff
- 2017: Senior Counselor, Tower Staff
- 2019: Assistant Head of Camp 3
Current Profession:
- Account Coordinator, NPRP Media in Los Angeles
Previous Roles:
- Agent Assistant in the Motion Pictures and Television departments, Creative Artists Agency in Los Angeles
Current Responsibilities and Career Path
Essentially, I assist with the planning and execution of out-of-home advertising and marketing campaigns for clients primarily in the fashion, tech and entertainment industries.
I went to UNC-Wilmington and majored in film studies. During my time there, I was able to get a few internships at production companies in Hollywood, one of which was with Richard Donner and the producers of the X-Men and Deadpool franchises. After college, I got a job with Creative Artists Agency in their film and TV departments but eventually transitioned into the role I am doing now.
Overall, I think my underlying passion is storytelling. I’ve really loved taking that passion and applying it to a wider array of projects and growing my skill set. Getting to work with really cool companies and help grow their brands and products has been really fun.
Key Lessons from Camp
Camp taught me the importance of being a positive influence and role model. When I first worked at Sea Gull in 2016, it was the first time I had been surrounded by so many people that truly made me want to be a better version of myself. Whether it was leadership staff or my fellow counselors, they all helped shape my worldview coming into adulthood. Inspiring others to be their best self was something I always took to heart while leading my cabin.
Setting high goals and sticking to them is another trait I can attribute to having learned and developed at Camp. Something I always loved was working really hard in the cabin and getting to see the direct result in my campers' happiness and success on activities.
Proud Achievements
Although I am still relatively early in my career, I think I am most proud of following my passions and not giving up. I graduated college in 2020 during COVID, so it has been a difficult few years getting my career started to say the least. I think the lessons and experiences I learned at Camp have helped me stay positive and determined in my personal and professional life. Focusing on things I can control, rather than things I can’t, has made a huge impact on me and keeps me striving towards my goals.
Influential Camp Mentors
One of my co-counselors on Riflery Staff, Chase Bailey, was someone who always lifted up everyone around him. Chase is truly one of the most positive people I know and always tackles a challenge head on and with a smile on his face. He embodied the definition of selflessness while at Camp and always put other people before himself. Having friends like Chase, who I still keep in touch with, is invaluable.
David Coover was also one of my favorite counselors when I was growing up at my local YMCA in Cary, NC. He inspired me to want to be a counselor one day too.
Advice for Staff
While internships are valuable, I believe the experience you get at Camp is like no other. Getting to be a role model and mentor to the next generation is an amazing privilege. I also think getting to work with other people who truly bring out the best in you is an experience many people don’t get to have.
