Seward (back) striking a pose with fellow camp advisors.For Andrew Seward, seven-year member of the Knox County Ohio 4-H program, 4-H meant camp and the county fair. “Sheep projects were a constant over the years, and as I got older, I became more involved in leadership activities by volunteering as a camp counselor,” he said.
After graduating from high school, Seward expanded on the skills he developed as a camp counselor by attending CFAES, where he studied education and leadership: “I knew I wanted to work with youth and help them develop the tools needed to better themselves, but I didn’t want to work in a classroom. The leadership track was a great option for me.”
Around the same time, Seward got involved with the Ohio Military Kids program: “My 4-H educator asked if I would be interested in volunteering as a counselor for one of the camps they were starting, and I’ve been involved ever since.” Seward now works as the lead child and youth program coordinator for the Ohio National Guard. He says the skills he learned in 4-H have been integral to his success.
“My time as a camp counselor taught me how to respond appropriately when things go sideways. Serving on junior fair board helped develop my communication skills and taught me how to effectively work with peers and adults,” said Seward.
“Most importantly, 4-H showed me the importance of trying new things. It’s easy to become stagnant in life, but with 4-H, there are always opportunities to push yourself outside of your comfort zone. Even bad experiences can provide learning moments that help you understand yourself better.”
Seward getting messy at camp.