"4-H taught leadership, networking with friends in 4-H around the country during high school, determinations and drive, self-worth and accomplishment of goals."
B.S. Interior Design, Illinois State University
Owner, Interior Design
Favorite 4-H Projects: Sewing, anything craft related, interior design
How did 4-H contribute to your leadership skills today?
Working and communicating with others was learned early on in my 4-H years. During my Sr year of HD, I started a new 4-H club in my county that specialized in sewing and modeling. I continued as the club leader until after graduating college and getting married, until my husband and I moved to the Chicago suburbs. To this day, 40 plus years later, the Stylistics is still an active 4-H club. This great experience at 17 years old taught me so much about great leadership. Years later I was proud to serve as the national board President of the Interior Design Society.
Did 4-H instill a career path for you?
Yes
What advice do you have for someone interested in your career path?
Communication and listening skills are just as important in my field than the design process. Meeting with clients the first time and gathering their wants and likes, helps deliver a custom designed home exclusively for them.
What advice would you give a current 4-H member?
Try new things! Whether it be new projects, activities or club officers or county boards. You will never know the possibilities unless you step out of your comfort zone and try.
Why should young people join 4-H today?
Life skills, lifetime friendships and possibly some of the best memories from childhood.