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By Meggan Franks, Christina Hebert, Asia Delasbour, Madeline Smith and Mayar Nickols
As 4-H members explore and pursue their sparks, they cultivate critical life skills, such as communication, responsibility, adaptability and confidence. Louisiana 4-H is preparing youth for life and for work in an ever-evolving workforce landscape. A recent longitudinal study of more than 2,000 written reflections completed by 4-H graduating seniors has captured critical data on career readiness outcomes, leadership growth and life skills cultivated through 4-H.
4-H cultivates career readiness and employability skills, such as communication, leadership, teamwork and problem solving. These skills are aligned with National Association of Colleges and Employers’ career readiness competencies.
What are Louisiana 4-H'ers saying?
feel 4-H influences college and career readiness (26% higher than national average)
serve as volunteers through 4-H (6% higher than national average)
note the influence of 4-H on postsecondary pathway support (17% higher than national average)
had the opportunity to explore career choices (23% higher than national average)
know employers expect 4-H’ers to do a job well because of their involvement (5% higher than national average)
4-H has prepared me to be a leader in life who makes smart choices. It has taught me how to communicate and get along with others. 4-H is the reason why I love to volunteer and help people in my community. 4-H has prepared me beyond my high-school years to be able to go out into the world, unafraid to speak my mind and lend a helping hand.
— Jasmine Sneed, Bienville Parish
4-H has shown me what it means to be a servant leader and helped foster a dedication to community service. Above all, 4-H has taught me that the true meaning of success is the ability to never be afraid to try something new, because you never know what lies behind that unknown door.
— Gabrielle Fontenot, Evangeline Parish
Through 4-H, I have gained valuable skills like work ethic, communication, leadership and knowledge.
— Lauren Gauthier, Avoyelles Parish
Participating in 4-H taught me how to be more comfortable talking to new people and trying new things. I have learned to think critically and solve problems. I have also grown in my ability to communicate with others.
— Anna Claire Nadler, Ouachita Parish
4-H has helped me learn necessary skills that have prepared me for not only the demands of college but also for success in the workforce. 4-H has taught me how important it is to get outside of my comfort zone and try new things.
— Kaylee Musgrove, Bossier Parish
