Each winter, Tyler and I begin the process of interviewing our staff for the upcoming summer season. The process involves each applicant undergoing an hour-long interview, checking their references, and conducting background checks. At the end of that process, we like to get to know our staff in a less formal way and learn about their tastes, interests, and personal preferences. Upon accepting the job, staff members undergo another interview we like to call The Lightning Round. Each hiring season we come up with five new questions that help paint a picture of the individuals on our staff! I’ve compiled the results of the Lightning Round from last season. I invite you all to get to know the CSC Staff of 2018!

Question One

Which band/musician were you obsessed with in middle school?

This question had the most diverse answers and less overlap compared to previous Lightning Round questions. The Killers and One Direction tied for first place, each bringing in three different votes from staff members. Bringing in two votes each for second place were Muse, Green Day, Led Zeppelin, Dave Mathews Band, The Jonas Brothers, Taylor Swift, and Fallout Boy. The rest of the results were unique with one vote each. They range from Hall-of-Famers like Bruce Springsteen to newer artists like Lana Del Ray and Justin Bieber.

Question Two

What book, movie, or TV show can you read/watch over and over again?

The Harry Potter series came in first place with 10 votes! We can’t say we’re surprised. Coming in second, with four votes, was The Office(US Version). Third place was a six-way tie between Into the Wild, Game of Thrones, The Princess Bride, Grey’s Anatomy, Lord of the Rings, and Alone on the Wall.

Question Three

Would you rather be a pirate or ninja?

Ninja: 32

Pirate: 17

Most of our staff members felt that being a ninja required more skill and artistry. Those who opted for the life of a pirate chose so because they felt it would be more fun and spontaneous.

Question Four

How do you feel about pineapple pizza?

I love it: 28

Ew, Gross: 13

Indifferent: 8

I’m not going to lie, I expected different results here. Hawaiian pizza receives a lot of criticism in my experience, so when the number of people in favor doubled the amount against it surprised me. Many people have expressed disgust at the idea of putting pineapple on pizza, but our staff appears to appreciate the mix of savory and sweet.

Question Five

If you could time travel, would you go to the past or to the future?

Past: 34

Future: 15

Again, I found these results quite surprising. I expected an even split, but the number of staff members interested in returning to the past doubles those curious about the future. I suppose the 2018 staff was a nostalgic group!

The Lightning Round is a great way to understand the influences pop-culture has on our staff. It’s a look into their diverse tastes and interests. If you or your camper have a suggestion for which questions we should use on 2019’s Lightning Round, be sure to let us know!