"4-H is truly a goldmine of opportunities that’s hard to find anywhere else! Where else can you do beekeeping and speech-giving in the same setting?" --Maddie Milharcic
| In August 2021, I had the pleasure of interviewing Madelyn (Maddie) Milharcic of Avon, who was imminently bound for her first semester at Purdue, about her ten years of membership in the Hendricks County 4-H program. Maddie is an outstanding young woman who truly thrived in 4-H. A homeschooled student, Maddie is now pursuing degrees in engineering and agriculture. |  |
When and why did you join 4-H? Maddie joined in 3rd grade after attending an open house. Her parents wanted her and her twin (Nicole) to have the same great experience they had as kids in 4-H, and the family participated in Mini 4-H together. [Unlike me,] Maddie knew it wasn’t just about agriculture, but she does love that aspect of it.
What activities did you participate in? Early on, Maddie wanted to be part of the rabbit program, raising and showing them at the fair. She also focused on and showcased Collections for several years (including hand-held fans), and also participated in shooting sports, and arts and crafts. She has shown in the fair every year she’s been in 4-H (10 years)!
What skills did you learn? Confidence and communication. Maddie admits she was very shy as a third grader, but now is much more extroverted and loves talking with people. She developed confidence through showing rabbits, being involved in a program/project she was interested in. She learned by watching others, and taking some communication classes in school. She also credits her skill development to showmanship training in the 4-H Ambassador Program.
What did you like most about 4-H? Maddie loved the people the most, including mentors like 4-H Leader Becky Daily, and some of her closest friends whom she met through the program.
How will being involved in 4-H impact your college experience? [I LOVE this answer!] Maddie said 4-H helped her learn how to learn, especially the process of learning by doing. She think she can apply the 4-H philosophy in all of her school projects; the 4-H environment promoted curiosity, and taught her what questions to ask and how to find answers. In her coursework, she feels confident in her ability to pursue answers, ask for help, and explore different careers.
Why should a family go to the Hendricks County 4-H Open House? Maddie promises that a family's investment will be met ten-fold almost right away. 4-H wants each child to succeed in what they want to do. A lot of it is animals and ag, but also indoor projects, woodworking, veterinary skills, and more. Students gain experience from professionals who know how to teach and can give them opportunities in real-world environments.
