Counselors-in-Training (CIT) Program

The Audubon Counselors-in-Training (CIT) Program is a summer volunteer program at Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans for teens in grades 8 through 12 who want to work with children and learn about animals and nature. CITs help staff run day camps for kids in kindergarten through seventh grade at either Audubon Zoo or the Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium. They assist with games, crafts, and activities, lead some activities themselves, and help keep campers safe and together. Each new CIT volunteers for one two-week camp session, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The 2026 sessions ran between June 1 and July 31. Before camp, participants attend an orientation in April and three Saturday training days in May. New participants pay a one-time $110 fee that covers uniforms, training lunches, and materials, and anyone can request a fee waiver while applying. Spots are limited.

Open to students entering grades 8 through 12; the 2026 cycle required entering 8th through 12th grade in fall 2026. Applicants must complete the online application themselves, including short reflection questions and a recommendation letter from a non-family adult. Selected applicants are invited to an in-person group interview. Audubon says applications usually open in late January.