Henry Smith

As a summer camp counselor, I developed leadership skills by guiding campers and planning activities. I often learned to manage group dynamics and resolve conflicts effectively. I also gained teamwork skills by collaborating with other counselors and building resilience by adapting to the unexpected challenges that come with managing a group of kids.

I would help support students in understanding course material, reinforcing what’s taught in the classroom, and improving their academic skills. I often would work one-on-one or in small groups, adapting explanations to match the student’s learning style and pace.

I spent 2 weeks with kids who had learning differences, which involved providing individualized support and encouragement to help each child succeed at their own pace. I often worked closely with students to reinforce key concepts, adapt activities to suit different learning styles, and offer guidance in ways that make learning accessible and enjoyable. This role requires patience, empathy, and flexibility. I was tasked with finding creative approaches to help these kids grasp challenging material or practice social skills.

I shadowed an architect to get a hands-on perspective of the profession and to understand the inner workings of a large architectural firm.

My brother (Rice University’s Class of 2026) and I launched a power-washing business over the summer of 2023, where we successfully earned around $6,000 in profit after accounting for equipment and gas expenses. It gave me hands-on experience in managing a small business, from marketing our services throughout the neighborhood to handling customer interactions and operational costs.