Making a difference in postsecondary education enrollment through Michigan 4-H
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EmailThrough its wide range of programs, Michigan 4-H promotes personal growth, career exploration and goal-setting.
Studies show individuals with college degrees earn more over the course of their lifetime and enjoy lower unemployment rates than those without a postsecondary degree. With more college graduates, Michigan would benefit greatly – through higher taxable earnings, more disposable income and lower rates of unemployment – among other benefits of a more skilled and educated workforce.
Helping to prepare the next generation of college graduates in Michigan is Michigan State University Extension’s 4-H Youth Development program. Through its wide range of programs, Michigan 4-H promotes personal growth, career exploration and goal-setting. In addition, the program prepares youth for postsecondary education by helping build important life skills, increasing college aspirations and improving college readiness. As a result:
- 61% of Michigan 4-H youth have enrolled in postsecondary education since 2009, a number significantly higher than the average Michigan student rate of 56%.
- 4-H alumni are more likely to go to college than their same-age peers in 81% of Michigan counties.
- 40% of Michigan 4-H alumni have earned a bachelor’s degree 6 years after high school, compared to 35% of their peers.
