Here at Camp Eagle, we LOVE our summer staff! These super-fun, spiritually-sound, college-aged leaders come from all walks of life, and serve our campers with enthusiasm, day in and day out. It’s not always easy, they say, but the experience is worth it 100 percent!
Today we’re featuring Nathan Seward.
Hey, there! Can you tell everyone your name and where you’re from?
I'm Nathan Seward and I'm from Magnolia, TX.
What do you do in the off-season?
I just graduated from Texas A&M with a bachelor’s in Ocean Engineering.
How many years have you worked at Camp Eagle? And in which programs?
I've worked at Camp Eagle for two summers so far. The last two summers I worked with Headwaters, but this year I will have the blessing of working at Group Camp.
How did God bring you to Camp Eagle?
My first interaction with Camp Eagle was as a middle schooler when I came with my church. Fast forward a few years, and one of my best friends decided to work for Teen Camp, then one year later I was led to work at Headwaters.
What’s your favorite activity at camp?
My favorite activity at camp is definitely mountain biking. I really enjoy the challenge and the adrenaline rush – it even reminds me of my faith. Some of the biggest thrills I've had with mountain biking is when I trust my bike and commit to a jump or a route that looks daunting. That's how it is with faith. The path God places in front of us may seem daunting, but if we trust in Him and commit to His work, we will find joy incomparable to anything this world offers.
What’s your favorite meal at camp?
My favorite meal is by far chicken strips, especially when it comes with rolls. I end up making a sandwich with gravy and chicken strips.
What do you love most about being on summer staff at Camp Eagle?
I think my favorite part of being on summer staff is seeing the Holy Spirit move through the community. The love that these people display, and the selfless service they commit to, can only be achieved by submitting to a will higher than ours. With this comes lots of laughs, lots of good memories, and lots of lifelong friends.
What’s one unexpected way that being on summer staff has grown your faith?
Being on summer staff has shown me how to be completely dependent on God. There are times where you're tired and just want to sleep, but God can always provide enough to keep going. Not to say I am always completely dependent on Him – there are definitely times when I begin to rely on my ability – but eventually, I am reminded of how dependence on Him alone is what will get us through.
Can you tell us about a specific moment or experience that deeply impacted your life, while working at camp?
There was this child at camp who was so loving and caring. One night he broke down and opened up about his depression. This kid wasn't even a teenager yet, and it hurt to see the pain he felt. That experience taught me that I want to share with others the hope found in Christ, and beyond that, also just remind other followers of our hope.
Any advice for someone considering applying for summer staff at Camp Eagle?
Pray for discernment on the decision. Camp is a wonderful place to serve God, and I love the place. However, I don't believe everyone is called to camp. Some people may be called to serve in their church, city, overseas, or even just in their home. I don't know God's will for you, but God does.
