Time to start thinking about summer projects
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EmailIt's not too early to start thinking and planning for projects you would like to learn about during the upcoming summer.
As you look out your window on these cold, snowy winter days, the farthest thing from your mind may be what you would like to accomplish this summer. That is why this is the best time to start putting some notes and ideas down on paper, phone or on your electronic tablet.
At Michigan State University Extension, the Michigan 4-H Youth Development program offers a variety of 4-H projects to get you to start thinking about some of these projects. If you visit the Michigan 4-H website, you will find projects ranging from animals, gardening, outdoor education, foods and nutrition and a whole lot more.
Maybe now is the time to start thinking about a summer job. Goal setting is the first step to take, followed by understanding SMART goals and then following through with them in a realistic setting. “SMART goals help you achieve success” from MSU Extension is a good article to help you learn more about SMART goals.
Visit the Michigan 4-H Careers & Entrepreneurship website to help with your interview skills and resumes. There are links to help you create a good resume. If you have an interest in starting your own business, check out the website on Michigan 4-H Youth Entrepreneurship website.
Summer camps will be looking for camp counselors soon. Check out possibilities to work at a summer camp. If you enjoy the outdoors and like working with kids, this is a great opportunity for part-time employment and will look good on your resume for future employment.
Woodworking projects could help you fix up items around your home. You might even consider building a bench or shelf that would be perfect for your space. Consider starting a garden for fresh foods to eat. Food preservation skills are good to have for those long winter months. Learn about the different types of spices and herbs. Learn how to plant seeds, cultivate and grow the different vegetables in your area. Plant pumpkins for fall. This is where your entrepreneurship skills could help you sell your garden goods to your neighbors or at the local farmers market.
If your idea for summer includes getting away, consider opportunities through 4-H international programs. Is there someplace you would like to visit? There are many opportunities for youth to participate in international exchanges.
How about taking a class on drawing, painting, cooking, photography, or something you have not had a chance to do in the past? Consider attending 4-H Exploration Days, a three-day event held in June. Youth have a chance to attend and learn from over 200 options, either a one-day or two-day session and share back home.
Michigan State University Extension and Michigan 4-H Youth Development help to prepare young people for successful futures. As a result of career exploration and workforce preparation activities, thousands of Michigan youth are better equipped to make important decisions about their professional future, ready to contribute to the workforce and able to take fiscal responsibility in their personal lives.
