Stories

Andrea McCann
Sullivan county, Indiana, 1969 to 1978

My 10-year 4-H career in Sullivan County began when boys and girls were still segregated at the local club level. I took both "boys" and "girls" projects, and much to my dismay, my mother made me attend the boys club meetings, as well as the girls club meetings. Painfully shy, I initially dreaded those boys club meetings, where I was the only girl in attendance. However, the older boys always made me feel comfortable and welcome and made sure the younger boys didn't tease me!

Clubs were soon combined, and everyone attended the same meetings regardless of the projects they took. I tried more and more projects, some years taking as many as 13 or so! I also took on leadership roles as a club officer and Junior Leader, participated in demonstrations and the queen pageant, and won trips and awards.

I have 4-H to thank for easing me out of my shell, allowing me to make many good friends, teaching me self-confidence, and introducing me to Purdue University and many wonderful role models. After my first 4-H trip to Purdue, I knew that's where I'd attend college. Not only did I receive my bachelor's degree from Purdue, but I was lucky enough to work there as a writer, editor and academic advisor in the School of Agriculture. One of my primary duties as a writer and editor was to promote the Cooperative Extension Service, which administers the 4-H program!

When my own daughter was old enough to get involved in activities, I told her I didn't care what else she chose to do, but she WOULD be in 4-H! We actually got off to similar starts in 4-H -- she also was very shy and almost vomitted out of nervousness prior to her first 4-H meeting! She ended up being a 10-year member in Tippecanoe County, and 4-H has been as good to her as it was to me.

In the summer of 2006, as a Ball State University student, she was selected to intern with the Indiana 4-H Foundation, receiving a scholarship for her efforts. She loved it and apparently excelled there, because they kept her! She continued to work for the Foundation throughout the school year and into the following summer.

As 4-H alumni, we both have continued our involvement by volunteering and judging. It's always great to attend the fairs and see what current 4-Hers are doing.