On guard and having fun at the same time

AT WORK

Kristin Cummings, 17
Life guard, swimming instructor
Princeton Family YMCA
By: Nick Norlen
   How did you get into this job?
   
I swam all my life, so it was just kind of something fun (to do for the summer). But I actually wanted to apply to work at the Y camp, and then I got called to work at the pool, and it was a great opportunity.
   
What kind of training did you need?

   
I took a 10-week certification course — basic rescue, pool safety rules. If you worked at the beach — those kind of rules. CPR, first aid — I had to get certified in that. (It was) tedious and long, but it was interesting.
   
Describe a typical day in your job.
   
I get here at about 9:30. I also work as a swim instructor here, too. So depending on that, I’ll either swim with the kids or do lessons or I’ll guard. I show up, I get ready, set up for classes or get ready to guard. Then the kids will come in, the people come in, and my day starts. And I’ll get breaks here and there, and I’m usually out of here in the afternoon. Everyone who works here, we all kind of help each other out. It’s like a family environment.
   
What do you enjoy most about your job?
   
   
I really like working with the kids. We have a lot of kids in here because of the camps, so it’s fun usually when I work with them or just to watch them. They’re really funny. And I have a big family, so I love kids.
   
What do you enjoy least?
   
It’s actually a really good job. Not easy — but the time goes by quickly. You don’t really realize that you’re actually working. It’s fun. I guess the worst part about it is the chlorine in the hair.
   
What is the key to success in your job?
   
Having a passion for your job and understanding the responsibility involved with it. You get to know (the kids) a lot. With the campers who come in here, you begin to recognize faces and they start to build relationships with you. It’s good for them, it’s fun for us.