Testimony of a 4-H member

As as 4-H cloverbud my focus was all about livestock and making sure my pig had the cutest names.  I know that 5 year old self would be amazed and captivated by the person that 4-H has made me.  One of my oldest 4-H memories is the very first speech I gave at around six years old. I was nervous and quiet, but I held  up the pictures of all my pigs and learned to speak in front of people at a very young age. 

Transitioning into my junior levels of 4-H was still mainly livestock.  I loved competing against others.   I was still very shy, and had zero interest in coming out of my shell.  During these years, my mother took over as my local 4-H group leaders.  I can easily say that was a blessing for me.  I was able to see and be hands on and help plan meeting and learned how to organize.  I learned during this time I had a very deep love for working with young children.

During my senior 4-H years, this was the most influential years of my life. Although I still continue to compete in livestock, my main interest in 4-H shifted to leadership.   This, by far, was one of the best decision I could have ever made.  I was lucky enough to have Extension Agents, mom and friends that saw thing in me that I didn't see in myself.  I went on to represent my county on the State Teen Council which was one of the best blessings I  have ever had the privilege of doing.  I have made friends that las a lifetime, fond memories, and networked more that ever. That shy person that I was once was completely gone and a ghost of the past.  I was able to hold positions of office, and take on the role given with every intention of good.  I was able to start program like Livestock Discovery that truly, in my opinion, made the best better.