Q&A with Heather Salyer

Heather Salyer in the Todos Santos Center courtyard, talking with two co-workers.

Name: Heather Salyer

Title/role at CSU: Recent CSU graduate with a BA in Theatre: Performance

When did you visit the CSU Todos Santos Center?

I visited Todos Santos from July 7-15, 2018.

What did you work on during your trip(s) to Todos Santos?

I went to Todos Santos to work Kids Do It All, which is a theatre camp. What is awesome about KDIA Todos Santos is that it is free for any kids, ages 7-14. We had kids coming in later in the week just because they had just learned about the program. During KDIA the kids get to learn games, sing songs, make friends, AND write their very own original play to perform for the community. As a counselor at the camp, I got to work with an outstanding group of people. I worked with the middle group, 9-11 year olds, as an assistant director.

What did you find most rewarding about your experience in Todos Santos?

The most rewarding part of Todos Santos was all the people I met. My co-workers were a happy mixture of old friends and new. About half of the staff were local to Todos Santos and really inspired me with how much they cared about the town. Their work ethic was insane and then they would turn around and go take care of their families. I learned a lot about life from them. And the other half were people I had gone to college with and had a great connection to.

Do you have plans to return to the Center?

Yes, I would love to teach again next summer just so I could see the kids again! On the last day a lot of them told [fellow counselors] Kaya, Leslie and I they would see us next summer…. so I do not wish to disappoint.

What is your favorite thing about the Todos Santos community?

My favorite thing about the community is how welcoming and positive it is. There is always something going on in the town and everyone is eager to say at least a good evening or good morning to each other. I always felt at home while I was there.

Is there anything else you want people to know about CSU’s involvement in Todos Santos?

Todos Santos is also just beautiful. We went to the beach almost every day and it was great for both the mind and the soul. The combination of wonderful kids, great staff and the town being so amazing, I feel like I was on vacation.