Meet Julie Becker: Gratiot County 4-H
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EmailA personal testimonial of the impact of Michigan 4-H from Gratiot County 4-H'er Julie Becker.
Julie Becker is 19 years-old and has been an active member in the Gratiot County 4-H program for 14 years. As a 4-H’er, she has been involved in multiple livestock projects, including goats, swine and rabbits, as well as the community service and leadership program areas. Currently, Becker is a sophomore at Michigan State University studying animal science and in 2023, she joined the Michigan 4-H Foundation Board of Trustees as one of three youth trustees. As she wraps up her 4-H career, Becker reflected on her 4-H experience.
How has 4-H influenced your life?
Growing up in 4-H from the young age of five, the program has had a profound impact on my life, shaping me into the person I am today.
I owe my passion for the agriculture and livestock industry, as well as my love for working with youth and giving back to the community, to 4-H.
The organization has helped me become a determined leader and an avid volunteer in my community, traits that I carry with me and am proud of every day.
What skills have you learned through 4-H that have helped you succeed?
Through 4-H, I have learned how to be an effective leader, guiding individuals while still making sure everyone feels seen and heard. I have learned time management skills, dedication, drive and hard work through prepping for the county fair or preparing to run a 4-H club meeting. 4-H has also provided me with skills to be career ready, which have helped me succeed in college, applying for jobs, and in my internships and extracurricular activities.
How has 4-H provided meaningful skill-development, mentoring and leadership opportunities?
From a young age, I was fortunate to be surrounded by incredible mentors who helped me develop leadership skills. At 12 years-old, I became the president of my 4-H club, a role that gave me the opportunity to cultivate communication, problem-solving and leadership skills, while also fostering a strong work ethic. This experience allowed me to mentor younger members and actively engage with my community. Additionally, 4-H has provided me with significant skill-development opportunities through experiences such as 4-H Exploration Days, National 4-H Congress, and a trip to San Antonio, Texas, with my county's exchange club.
What do you enjoy most about 4-H?
Although I have enjoyed every moment of my time in 4-H, my favorite parts have been the people I have gotten to meet, and the experiences and opportunities it has given me.
You may not realize it, but you make your lifelong friends attending monthly 4-H meetings and build lifelong connections attending events such as 4-H Exploration Days and National 4-H Congress.
As a current collegiate 4-H member, I enjoy getting to be around young adults who have the same passions and interests as me.
What do you want to be after you graduate? What are your career goals?
After I graduate from MSU with a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a minor in agribusiness management, I plan to pursue graduate studies. My career goal is to work in veterinary pharmaceutical sales or animal nutrition. I also hope to continue being an active 4-H volunteer and advocate for the program within my community, ensuring that others benefit from the same opportunities that have shaped my life.
