Overview

Recently I [Matt] had a chance to interview 4-H youth member Genevieve who is also this year's 4-H club president for Eureka Granite Bay in Placer County. The following are Genevieve's responses to my questions.

About Genevieve

[Matt] What is your current role in the 4-H program? Describe your involvement and any leadership responsibilities you have.

[Genevieve] As a senior in high school, this year will be my 12th and final year of 4-H. This year, I am looking forward to being the Eureka Granite Bay 4-H Club President. I will also be the teen leader for the Fiber Arts and Gardening projects this year. I am excited to participate in lots of committees to organize community service opportunities for the club! These leadership roles really mean a lot to me. I will be responsible for leading club meetings and officer meetings, as well as collaborating to lead project meetings.

About Genevieve's Spark

[Matt] What is your “spark”?

[Genevieve] My biggest spark is photography. I began to discovered this spark quite a few years ago when I participated in our club's photography project. Learning more about how to use a camera, and delving into aperture, shutter speed, and ISO settings, combined with fun prompts and different types of photography was just what I needed to realize how much I love photography. I have since learned so much not only about my camera and editing, but also about the local bird species and their unique behaviors. I'm excited to share my spark, especially for bird photograph, this year when our 4-H club participates in the Back Yard Bird Count event in February.

Genevieve's 4-H Accomplishments

[Matt] As a 4-H'er, what are some of your proudest accomplishments?

[Genevieve] My biggest accomplishment as a 4-H'er is bringing my club together, and helping to lead various club activities. Most recently I helped to organize our club's cut out board entry in the Placer County Fair. I ran planning meetings, prepped the board for painting, and then organized for our club to help paint the board at our end of year potluck. Our club won the $500 grand prize for our cut out board, but the real reward was not the money, it was getting to lead the club in a collaborative activity, and then seeing all of our hard work pay off.

Looking to the Future

[Matt] Where do you see yourself in the next three years?

[Genevieve] In the next three years, I see myself in college studying in the field of biology. Moving away from home is a big step in everybody's lives, and I already know that my participation in 4-H will help me to easily adjust to a new college lifestyle. 4-H has taught me so many valuable life skills, how to make friends, keep organized records, communicate in a professional manner, take responsibility for my actions, and most of all step out of my comfort zone. All of these skills will certainly help me to be a successful college student.

Advice for 4-H Members

[Matt] What advice would you give other 4-H youth members?

[Genevieve] I think it is very important, especially for new 4-H members, to remember that everyone else in the club was once a new member in a group full of strangers, and we know just how you feel. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself, ask questions, and have fun! 4-H is a place where everyone can fit in. Whether you are interested in animals, leadership, or community service, there is something for everyone. Every 4-H club is happy to see new faces and include you in their group.

Impact of 4-H Volunteers on Genevieve's Life

[Matt] What impact have 4-H volunteers made in your life?

[Genevieve] 4-H volunteers and the program as a whole have made a really big impact on my ability to get up in front of a group and talk to an audience. Having a supportive group of 4-H volunteers that always helped me feel welcome and safe really allowed me to become a more independent person. When I started 4-H, I was apprehensive and afraid to stand up in front of the club to make even the smallest announcement. Now I lead every meeting with confidence, all thanks to the support from our club's 4-H volunteers. As a senior member I now can appreciate how much adult volunteers make everything in 4-H possible through their mentorship and guidance.

About the 4-H Program

To learn more about the 4-H program in Placer County, please check out our website.