NEW HAMPSHIRE TEEN INSTITUTE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Why should I go to the TI Summer Program? How could it help me?
A: TI is like a home away from home. You'll meet amazing people who will become life long friends. I know that personally, everyone that I met while at TI became a second family for me. Everyone is so welcoming, from the staff to the participants and everyone in between. Everyone comes with their own story, some similar in ways, but each unique. If your story isn't exactly the best fairytale told, it's okay. Most stories are far from perfect, but there's some beauty in that, and when you combine some not so perfect stories, you get the most amazing tale ever. Each story intertwines and makes them better together. So, what I'm saying here, is that if you decide to attend TI, even if your story isn't the best, it will get better. You are taught some life skills, such as a very important one that not many people know how to do, which is to love yourself. That's definitely not the only way TI can help, though. It gives you a safe place to be for a week, and for some people, that can mean the world. A safe place to rest your head and some amazing people that are willing to be there for you seem like a pretty good deal, eh?
Q: What if I don't know anyone?
A: It can be a bit scary going places where you don't know anyone, especially in new surroundings. Sometimes, we just have to take the chance and go out and meet new people. You may come not knowing anyone, but you'll leave, knowing just about everyone on a personal and loving level. We all come as strangers but leave as a family. It's not hard to make friends here, especially since there are so many amazing people. Even if you're shy and more of a loner you'll find some amazing friends. You just have to remember, strangers are just friends you haven't met yet! And trust me, you will meet those friends here.
Q: What if I'm not that outgoing?
A: All types of people are welcome at Summer Program. It's okay if you're a bit shy, we all are sometimes. After a little while, things will become more comfortable and I'm sure you'll open up a bit. Confidence is something hidden in all of us. Even if you come to TI not very confident, I'm sure you'll leave at least a bit more confident. You definitely don't need to be outgoing or confident to come to TI. We'll love and accept you no matter what!
Q: Where is the camp?
A: This year’s programs will be held at Lion’s Camp Pride in New Durham, NH, and at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, NH.
Q: What will I do when I get there?
A: You'll do many things, both physical and mental. You'll do group activities, solo activities, games, and have learning opportunities. When you first arrive you'll get to do some ice breaker activities. Let's just say you'll never hear the end of "Popsico", so better learn it while you have the chance! Not everything is fun and games, though. There are also workshops that can teach you about certain topics. One is the Self Care workshop, which is very eye-opening on how you have to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. There are also other activities you can do, but I don't want to spoil it all for you. You'll have to find out for yourself.
Q: What if I'm not comfortable talking about myself?
A: That's perfectly fine! No one is going to pressure you to share. The most we'll ask of you if you're not comfortable with sharing is that you'll pay attention to those who are comfortable doing so. Everyone who comes to TI has their own stories to tell, even if they might not be willing to share. Perhaps you'll find someone who has gone through one of your experiences that you can talk to one on one if you'd feel more comfortable doing so. Or, sometimes you can learn things about yourself just by listening to someone else. Even if you don't decide to share, no one will think differently of you if you decide not to.
Q: I already know how to deal with drug and alcohol use around me, so I'm not sure what else I could learn from a camp.
A: TI is much more than just drug and alcohol prevention. At TI you learn to open up, to grow, and most importantly, to love yourself. You'll learn so many amazing things here that you might not have learned elsewhere. So, perhaps you know how to deal with drug and alcohol use, but that can't be the only troubling thing is this world, right? At TI, you can learn how to cope with all sorts of tough situations. You may relearn some things you already know, but it's so worth it to learn new things that will help you to better yourself.
Q: Ok, Summer Program sounds great, but it feels like so much money. I really want to come, but I don't think my family can afford it.
A: Due to the generosity of foundations and private donars as well as support from the State of NH both full and partial scholarships are available to those who qualify! When you fill out your registration, check that you are interested in scholarship opportunities, and follow the link to our scholarship application. If you have further questions, you can contact us at 978-206-1188 or email mmcgowan.ti@gmail.com
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