"4-H taught me leadership, responsibility, time management, and through my experiences, I was able to make friends that will last a lifetime."
'18 Lake Land College, Ag Transfer; '20 Animal Industry Management, Illinois State University
Extension Program Coordinator, University of Illinois Extension
Favorite 4-H Projects: Beef and Visual Arts
How did 4-H contribute to your leadership skills today?
4-H allowed me to learn what a team is from a young age. Serving multiple officer roles throughout my time as a 4-H member really helped me become a better leader. These are traits that you don't always realize you are learning until it comes a time that you need to step up to be that leader.
Did any of your 4-H projects instill a career path for you?
Yes, 4-H was such a big part of my life it helped lead me to want to give other children the same experience I was given.
What advice do you have for someone interested in your career path?
Remember to always have an open mind. I think sometimes as a Extension Program Coordinator who comes from a heavy 4-H background you often think that everything should be like it was for your county growing up but really you have to be open for change because you never know the county you are working in might do something that works better for them.
What advice would you give a current 4-H member?
Take any opportunity that is given to you. If I wouldn't have stepped out of my comfort zone to fill out an application to be a part of a state team I might not be where I am today. I think that a lot people overlook all the opportunities there are for 4-Hers to join in on at the state level.
Why should young people join 4-H today?
4-H has such a wide variety of projects. A lot of times when some may hear the words 4-H their mind automatically goes to livestock, but the 4-H program is so much more than that. There is truly something for everyone. And of course you get to complete a project that you have a lot of interest in but you also get to learn many valuable life lessons along the way!