Michigan 4-H and MSU Admissions professionals team up to help young people plan their futures
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EmailA unique collaboration between MSU Extension 4-H Youth Development and the MSU Office of Admissions aims to help Gen Z and Generation Alpha get excited about their futures by providing a deeper understanding of post-secondary options.
A unique collaboration between Michigan State University Extension 4-H Youth Development and the MSU Office of Admissions (OA) aims to help Gen Z and Generation Alpha get excited about their futures by providing a deeper understanding of post-secondary options.
In December 2024, leaders of the two groups signed a memorandum of understanding to formalize a decades-long handshake agreement that encouraged 4-H professionals in MSU Extension county offices to assist students interested in MSU finding pathways to the admissions process and other future opportunities.
This work is not only important, but timely. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 52% of Gen Z feel they are failing at life goals, and 37% feel persistently sad or hopeless. By creating pathways to college and other options, this partnership aims to help 4-H'ers feel more positive about their future in post-secondary education and beyond.
In 2025, nearly 3,500 youth and their family members interacted with Admissions and/or 4-H professionals at 16 pre-college activities, both on and off the main campus. One-day events hosted by MSU Extension, such as 4-H Day at Breslin in East Lansing, World Food Prize Michigan Youth Institute, and Adulting 101 virtual sessions encourage students and their families to connect with Admissions staff. Overnight opportunities like 4-H Exploration Days, 4-H Capitol Experience and 4-H Animal and Veterinary Science Camp gave young people a taste of what it’s like to live on campus and attend classes while meeting new people and building their network.
The seven-person strategic-planning team already has plans to expand the number of activities, and therefore the number of contacts, in 2026. They’ll do it with the help of about 140 champions—professionals from both departments that work together throughout the state to help young people thrive.
Jodi Schulz, co-director of MSU Extension’s children and youth programs and state leader for Michigan 4-H, believes the opportunities for this partnership not only strengthen relationships with MSU, but also help students set goals for the future.
“I’m a proud MSU alum, and I speak passionately and positively about my college experiences,” she said. “I also recognize that MSU—or college in general—may not be the right path for everyone. Giving young people these experiences earlier in life helps them learn what they need to find the career that is right for them, and now they have a whole team of people helping them reach their goals.”
