Tips for Applying to NCSU

 Good morning - 

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to you today as the Associate Dean and Director of CALS Academic Programs with a request that you assist me in Growing the Pack! 

You are keenly aware that agriculture is the backbone of North Carolina’s economy. The success of this sector is not only vital for our economy but also for the sustenance and well-being of our communities. The role of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences cannot be overstated. CALS is at the forefront of agricultural education, research, and extension services, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the complex challenges facing modern agriculture, from sustainable farming practices to innovative biotechnologies.

As we face global challenges, the need for well-trained graduates who can lead and innovate in the agricultural sector is more pressing than ever. CALS is uniquely positioned to meet this demand, but Academic Programs cannot do it alone. I need your assistance in reaching students we hope to enroll in our high-need majors.

As a former first-generation student, I can personally attest that there is always a path to NC State. I didn’t start in CALS, but it is where I finished. Remember, the answer is always no if you don’t apply.

My team and I are eager to engage with those in your community. For those just now starting to consider a college degree, I ask that you share this link with them: go.ncsu.edu/calsinterest. We’ll provide information about opportunities, scholarships, and extend invitations to come Spend a Day at State.

For students already preparing their application, we created a “3 Tips to Make Your NC State Application Shine” video, which is packed with helpful tips to guide students through the process and ensure their application stands out.

Here’s a quick look at what they’ll learn:

• Start Early: Applying Early Action to NC State can help students reduce stress and give them priority consideration for scholarships and the Honors Program.
• Be Honest: Encourage students to be genuine and share their goals, hopes and dreams in their essays. A clear, authentic story is key to showing how NC State is the right fit for them.
• Believe in Yourself: Remind them to highlight their unique achievements and personal growth. NC State Admissions looks at every applicant holistically.

Please share the video with students you know to help them feel more confident as they complete the application process. For more information on applying to CALS, visit Guidance for Applicants.

Thank you for your continued support in guiding future Wolfpack members!

Go Pack!

Youth Advocacy

 This is a message shared by Dr. Mike Yoder to all 4-H Agents.  

Good Afternoon!

 

I hope you're doing well. My name is Kelvin and I'm the Director of Community Engagement at NC Child. Applications are now open for our 2024-25 Youth Advocacy Council! The YAC gives high school students the opportunity to build advocacy skills by meeting with state and local elected officials about youth mental health issues. Would you please share this opportunity with students in your network? The application, official email and website link on the program is attached below.

 

We are seeking students who are representative of all of North Carolina, including non-college-track students, students of color, and rural students. As such, we encourage students without any advocacy experience to apply as long as they are passionate and have an eagerness to learn and grow within their skillsets. Thank you for your time!

 

Website Link: Youth Advocacy Council - NC Child

 

 

 

 

 

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? Do you want to build leadership and advocacy skills while influencing state and local policies? If so, the NC Child Youth Advocacy Council (YAC) is looking for you!

 

The NC Child Youth Advocacy Council is a unique opportunity for high school students across North Carolina to have their voices heard and be part of meaningful change.

 

As a member of YAC, you will:

• Advocate for policies that impact youth, especially around youth mental health
• Engage with policymakers to help shape decisions at the state and local levels
• Develop skills in leadership, advocacy, and communication

 

Who Should Apply?

We are seeking high school students (grades 9-12) from diverse geographic areas of North Carolina, with a range of backgrounds and experiences. You don’t need prior political experience; you just need a passion for creating change and the confidence to share your unique perspective on the issues affecting young people. We especially encourage students from all walks of life, whether on a college or non-college track to apply.

 

Program Details:

• Term: January 1 – August 1, 2025
• Meetings: Hybrid (virtual and in-person), with stipends and reimbursement for travel
• Stipend: You will receive a flat-rate stipend for your involvement ($750)

 

Why Apply?

Since its creation almost ten years ago, YAC members have tackled issues like the vaping epidemic, youth mental health, and access to resources for their peers. If interested, this is your chance to bring your voice and passion to the table for the next generation of youth-led policy solutions!

 

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application by November 15^th, 2024, and take the first step toward becoming a youth advocate. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Josh McGee at josh@ncchild.org.

Together, we can make a difference for North Carolina's future!

 

Apply Here

 

Helping Hands

Dear North Carolina 4-H Family and Friends,

We hope this message finds you safe and well. 

We are deeply moved by the overwhelming support and love we have received from across the nation. As we navigate the path to recovery in the wake of the recent devastation in our mountains, we understand that the journey ahead will be challenging. The winds may have destroyed homes, and the waters may have washed away the familiar, but amidst this chaos, we also witness the remarkable strength of a community united by a spirit that no storm can extinguish.

In times of darkness, communities like ours have shown time and time again that they can rise from the ashes of tragedy. We are more than the damage that’s been done. We are children's laughter, the hands that help one another, and the deep ties that connect families, neighbors, and friends. The heart of Western Carolina beats strong, and though the path may be long, it is in the process of rebuilding that true strength will emerge.

So many have asked how best to help, so we have compiled a list of potential opportunities. Please consider contributing to one or both of these efforts, and let this be a moment to remind each other that no storm is stronger than the human spirit.  Please visit our Helpful Hands, Healing Hearts Website for ways to participate. 

• 4-H Clover Care Packages

• The NC 4-H team suggests that adoption states, county teams, 4-H clubs, families, or individuals create and donate youth activity kits. These kits will provide opportunities for youth to be creative and engage in activities that provide distraction and a time for processing emotions through coloring, writing, or other means of active expression. Western NC counties have indicated their needs and capacity at this time, on the signup. Our sign-up will be updated monthly as needs change, so please check back often. Items we recommend, including in the kits now, are: 

• Coloring books & crayons/colored pencils: To encourage creativity and help them express their feelings.

• Winter clothing items: gloves, hats, scarves, coats, etc. 

• Blank notebooks or journals: For drawing, writing, or journaling to cope with emotions.

• Stickers: Fun and easy to use, adding a playful element to their creativity.

• Stuffed animals or plush toys: For emotional comfort.

• Small blankets: Cozy and comforting, providing a sense of security.

• Handmade cards or notes: Personal messages of hope and encouragement from others.

• Puzzle books: Simple crosswords, word searches, or mazes for distraction and mental engagement.

• Card games: Compact and easy-to-learn games like UNO or Go Fish.

• Travel-sized board games: For fun, easy-to-carry games that others can share.

• STEM activity kits: Simple science or engineering activities to stimulate curiosity.

• Bubbles: Easy to play with and lighthearted fun for children of all ages.

• Jump ropes: For physical activity and a way to burn off energy.

• Sidewalk chalk: To encourage outdoor play and creativity.

• Stress balls: To help manage anxiety and stress.

• Mindfulness or relaxation cards: Simple breathing exercises or calming activities.

• Storybooks: Positive, uplifting stories to distract and entertain.

• Toiletries: Small toothbrush kits, combs, and soap—practical items that may be missing.

• Reusable water bottles: Keeping hydrated while also providing something personal.

• Snacks: Non-perishable, kid-friendly snacks like granola bars or fruit snacks.

• Photos or messages of hope from peers: To help them feel connected.

• Temporary tattoos or wristbands: Fun and cheerful, offering small but meaningful excitement.

• Youth Belong Program Monetary Donations

• Many NC 4-H Youth lost everything to this storm. They and their families will spend years recovering. Funding for normal enrichment and summer activities will be the last thing on their minds. However, the ability to stay connected to their 4-H family will be an essential part of their healing journey. We invite you to donate funds to help youth in Western North Carolina affected by the storm to attend 4-H programs that they will otherwise not be able to afford. 

• Both our NC 4-H Honor Club and NC Volunteer Leaders Association are taking the lead on this effort. Monetary donations can be made by check to either. 

• NC 4-H Honor Club / Checks Payable to:  NC 4-H Honor Club

• ATTN:  Shannon McCollum, 4-H Youth Dev. Specialist, Box 7655 NCSU, Raleigh, NC 27695-7655

• NC 4-H Volunteer Leaders Association / Checks Payable to:  NC 4-H Volunteer Leaders Association

• ATTN: Diane Sturges, NCVLA Financial Officer, 12156 NC Highway 125, Halifax, NC 27839-9525

• Send a Western youth to summer camp and 4-H Congress scholarships are available on the Signup Genius.

• Donations can be earmarked for specific impacted counties and their general fund -or- specific 4-H programs if desired. Simply list this on the memo line of your check or in the note section via the online payment system. Program Areas include: Teen Retreats, Overnight Summer Camp, 4-H Congress. Proceeds will benefit 4-H programs in the West district of North Carolina.   

Together, we can bring hope and relief to those in need. Thank you for your kindness and generosity during this challenging time.

Sincerely, 

The NC 4-H State Team

--

National STEM Compeitition

 

Hey 4-H Members we're excited to announce that you can submit STEM projects to the 2025 National STEM Festival!  All youth in grades 7-132 in the US, District of Columbia, and US Territories are invited to participate. 

  Your submission must fit under one of 6 Festival Themes:  Aerospoace Innovation; Environmental Stewardship; Future Food; Health and Medicine; Powering the Planet; or Tech for Good.  To learn more about the different themes and projects please go to:  https://www.nationalstemfestival.com/themes 

   Up to 130 winners will earn a free trip to Washington DC to attend the National STEM Festival and present their projects in March of 2025.   Deadline to enter is October 20th.  To Submit an entry please go to:  https://form.typeform.com/to/F304fok2?typeform-source=www.nationalstemfestival.com

Family Holiday Crafting 4-H SPIN Club

 

This club is for all currently active member in 4-H (actively enrolled in 4-H Online) and their families. We will meet three times and work on a craft each time and learn the value of crafting, as well as the entrepreneurial side of creating your own business. Each meeting will be at the NC Cooperative Extension, Robeson County Center office at 455 Caton Road in Lumberton. We will meet starting at 6 pm and wind up by 8 pm at the latest. Please see the dates and crafting projects below. Each project is designed to be completed during the club meeting and a list will be provided of supplies if you would like to continue these projects at home.

By registering you are registering for all three craft club meetings. Please register each member of the family that will be attending. If you can not attend a meeting we will have supplies for you to pick up and a video tutorial to try at home.

Thursday, November 7- Diamond Art-there is nothing like the sparkle to diamond art. Come make your own holiday themed magic creations and enjoy crafting time with other families.

Thursday, November 14-Up Cycle Ornaments. We will have some fun making holiday ornaments and decor out of some everyday items.

Tuesday, November 21- Butter makes Everything Better, even at the Holidays. Learn about the craft of making butters and bread. Who can resist fresh baked bread and some very cool butter to go with it as a gift for the holidays?

You can register via the app or by clicking on this link....

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/family-holiday-crafting-4-h-spin-club-tickets-1045017063167?aff=oddtdtcreator

Outward Bound 4-H Exchange Program

 

Announcing: 4-H Outbound Exchange Programs for 2025!

Next summer, NC 4-H’ers will have the opportunity to travel abroad and experience new cultures and languages in 5 different countries through our partnership with the States’ 4-H International Exchange Programs. Apply by November 15 for a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

-We will be hosting an Info and Q&A session on Zoom October 22 from 7-8 PM. Learn program details and hear from participants who went abroad through these programs last year! Register here for the zoom session: https://ncsu.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUlf-murzwuHNc4a6RPlGL-Kg-tdH2aJwWZ

-Adults with 4-H volunteer experience or Cooperative Extension staff members may be eligible to participate as chaperones! Email Caitlin Clineff for more information on how to apply to be a chaperone at cadavis7@ncsu.edu.

-More information can be found on our webpage: https://nc4h.ces.ncsu.edu/youth-3/nc-4-h-international-exchange-program/

-Program costs, airfare estimates, payment schedule and conditions are included in the linked document here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fLNbuhFRoINyau4jT7vEVF3aLL8Hoxfu/view?usp=sharing

-Please note that age is counted as of the date of departure.

Costa Rica - June 19 to July 18

*Ages 15-18

*Homestay with a Costa Rican 4-S family 

*Sightseeing and cultural excursions in San José 

*Two-day visit to Arenal Volcano National Park 

* Host sibling of same age/gender not guaranteed

Japan 4 week - July 9 to Aug 8

*Ages 12-18

*Homestay with a LABO/LEX Japanese family, with host sibling 

*Attend LABO/LEX Camp 

*Visit LABO or LEX clubs with host family

Japan 8 week - June 11 to Aug 8

*Ages 15-18

*1st Month: Intensive group language-learning program in Tokyo, including cultural excursions in and around Tokyo. Host sibling not guaranteed. 

*2nd Month: All the same components as the Japan 4-week program (see above)

South Korea - July 16 to Aug 15

*Ages 12-17

*Homestay with 1-2 Korean 4-H families 

*Urban exploration in Seoul 

*Host sibling of same age not guaranteed

Taiwan - July 16 to Aug 15

*Ages 12-18

*Homestay with 1-2 Taiwanese 4-H families 

*Urban exploration in Taipei 

*Host sibling of same age not guaranteed

Argentina - June 19 to July 13

*Ages 15-18

*Hotel group accommodation in Córdoba 

*Daily structured group activities facilitated by Argentina 4-H 

*Particular emphasis will be placed on soccer and orchestra 

*Multi-day 4-H camp in Argentine countryside

Application Deadline: Nov 15, 2024

Application Links:

Youth Delegate: https://smr.to/p98780

Chaperone: https://smr.to/p98866

Junior Chaperone: https://smr.to/p98865

Contact State Coordinator Caitlin Clineff at cadavis7@ncsu.edu if you have any questions!

4-H Ornaments at Tractor Supply

 

4‑H | Shop 4‑H | CLOVER by 4‑H

The leaves haven't even begun to change, but we are already excited about the holiday season and our partnership with Tractor Supply Company. See below for important updates as we continue to grow our partnership. Holiday Ornaments Launching on October 7th, limited‑edition collectible 4‑H holiday ornaments will be available in Tractor Supply stores nationwide. Featuring three unique designs for 2024, these ornaments are sure to become a cherished family tradition for 4‑H'ers for years to come. 100% of the funds raised from ornament sales will benefit 4‑H. New Paper Clover Dates: November 29th – December 15th To embrace the holiday spirit, the Paper Clover campaign will move from October to November and December this year, officially launching on Black Friday! Running from November 29th to December 15th, we are thrilled that TSC is hosting this event during the season of giving. We can't wait to see how much we raise for 4‑H Camp and Leadership Scholarships! Keep an eye out for updated promotional materials for both the ornaments and Paper Clover on our website soon! Please reach out if you have any questions.