5 Traits I've Learned Through 4-H
by Maddie Wiswell, Placer County 4-H Ambassador
I'm Maddie Wiswell and I have been in 4-H for nine years. I live on a 100-acre sheep and cattle ranch and have invested a lot of time in animal projects and leadership opportunities through the 4-H program. I have been so grateful to meet and work with so many amazing people over the last few years and wouldn't trade it for the world. Through my experience I have gained a lot of knowledge and have learned so much about who I want to be. These are the top five things that I have learned thus far:
1.Leadership
To me, leadership is the ability to lead by example and be a positive role model to others around you. You not only inspire others, you teach them to be leaders for themselves. My leadership skills have been practiced through a multitude of positions. I have had experience on committees, as a club officer, summer camp staff, and now as an ambassador. Leadership is now one of my favorite subjects to learn about in school and I hope to continue my ambitions in the future.
2.Responsibility
Whether it is owning up to your mistakes or following through with your work, responsibility is an important aspect that can be applied to anyone's life. To be responsible for another's life is the most eye opening form of responsibility that I can think of. To me, the greatest opportunity I have had is to raise animals. From the two chickens I took home from my second grade class to the flock of sheep I now own, every project has been incredibly fun and rewarding for me.
3.Teamwork
Building relationships and connecting with others 4-Her's from across the state has by far been the best part of each event I have attended. I love hearing other people's journeys and like reciprocating similar interests. Additionally, the friendships made by working with close-knit groups of people allows our experiences to thrive and provides the best form of motivation.
4.Communication Skills
One of the greatest fears among us humans is public speaking. I admit that I share this fear and that I have always been shy and quiet. I have learned that everyone is here to support each other and that no one will judge you for speaking up about your opinions. One way this applies to 4-H is through advocating for what you believe in. Speaking up and a simply asking for help can go a long way towards you reaching your goals. Although I have not participated in as many public speaking or presentation events as I would have liked. One thing that is for sure is that I will always know how to address a letter due to the long hours put in handwriting buyer letters.
5. Opportunity
My greatest realization is the power of opportunity. Opportunities are indefinite and you never know where they can lead to. This might be one of the reasons that I choose to say yes to every new experience; I constantly want to do everything all at once. Some of my greatest 4-H opportunities include establishing the Thermalands 4-H Club as the President and starting up my own flock of Shropshire breeding ewes. Additionally, the Northern Youth Summit committee has helped me connect with people who have a passion for leadership which has kept my spark alive within the 4-H.
I guess what I'm saying is that the 4-H Program has been extremely beneficial to my development as an individual, team partner, and community member.
