"4-H gave me so many important skills that prepared me for college. I gained so much confidence in high school through my 4-H activities that pushed me to go to the school I wanted, even though I didn't know a single person there."
B.S. '01, Accounting, University of Illinois; MBA '06 University of Massachusetts Amherst; Ph.D. '21 Strategic Management, Sullivan University
Visiting Assistant Professor of Business, Quincy University
Favorite 4-H Projects: Livestock & Veterinary Science
How did 4-H contribute to your leadership skills today?
4-H is so valuable in building leadership skills. If you had told my younger self that I would speak in front of people for a living I would have laughed. But my activities throughout 4-H helped to build those skills.
Did any of your 4-H projects instill a career path for you?
In a way. I started U of I as an Ag Engineering major but changed to Accounting after I discovered a love for business. I do credit 4-H and FFA for me being where I am today as a professor.
What advice do you have for someone interested in your career path?
Build skills that build your confidence. And, find the area you are passionate about. I have been a professor for almost 10 years. You have to be passionate about what you teach. For me, that's business.
What advice would you give a current 4-H member?
Try everything and go for every opportunity. That's what I tell my 12 year old son in 4-H now.
Why should young people join 4-H today?
There are endless opportunities to build skills, gain confidence, and learn important skills you won't learn elsewhere.