Just like that May is turning to June, and time marches on for Placer County. On May 16th, Placer County 4-H held virtual scholarship interviews for the 4-H Council scholarships and the Hulbert award. There were fifteen very deserving 4-H youth virtually interviewed! COVID-19 has pushed us all into the world of virtual interactions more than ever. 

Personally, when the whole pandemic started I thought it would be over before I had time to think twice about it. I am typing this article from my home, not the UCCE Placer Office, realizing things will be different moving forward. In times of change new things are able to grow. I am committed to this time being a fundamental period for Placer County's 4-H growth and adaptation. We were successfully able to host a Zoom meeting with eight volunteer judges, and fifteen 4-H youth. By the end of the day five youth were awarded 4-H Council awards, and five youth were awarded from the Hulbert Scholarship fund. Neil and Laura Hulbert were truly able to leave a lasting legacy for Placer County 4-H youth. 

The scholarship interviews were the first time I was able to meet some of the youth in Placer County since I started my position during COVID-19. The truth is they blew my socks off. I literally cannot wait to get involved with the bright minded individuals our 4-H program is filled with! I was able to hear about their accomplishments and aspirations that were all deeply connected to their 4-H volunteer leaders, and 4-H community. If any scholarship interviewees are reading this, know that YOU have left a lasting impact and that was just from a short interview. You will all go on to do such amazing things with your future! I am looking forward to working with Placer County's inspiring 4-H youth.