The life of the high school senior is full of “adult” decisions: selecting a college, picking a major, choosing a career path, and moving out! Although today’s adolescents are technologically advanced compared to prior generations, they sometimes lack basic practical living skills. After being approached by school officials with this very same concern, the Family Consumer Science Agent and 4-H Youth Development Agent decided a crash course was needed. The #Adulting program was developed and piloted for the first time in spring of 2019. With the aid of community partners, teachers and fellow agents the program debut was a success.

Agents led classes such as sewing, money management, cooking, laundry, job interview skills, healthy relationships, and being organized were offered. Community partners stepped in highlighting basic first aid and vehicle maintenance. Students were able to choose 4 sessions to attend that addressed their specific area of need or interest.

Out of the surveys completed, 82% of the students said that the skills they learned would be beneficial to their life after high school. Seniors that participated in the program said they gained confidence in vehicle maintenance, college preparation, and interviewing for a job. Many remarked they learned tips and tricks that parents had never taught them. Students also made suggestions of additional sessions for next years group.