MSU Extension 4-H Scholarships & Recognition Program

For youth interested in postsecondary education, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension’s flagship youth development program Michigan 4-H is helping to not only prepare youth for college success but also make it more affordable. In 2023, Michigan 4-H’ers who attended 4-H pre-college programs earned 100 percent of MSU’s Pre-College Scholarships.

“It’s really exciting to have Michigan 4-H’ers take home all 22 of the MSU Pre-College Scholarships that were awarded this year,” said Julie Chapin, state leader for Michigan 4-H and director of MSU Extension’s children and youth programs. “We typically see our 4-H’ers take home a large portion of those scholarships each year but to have them all awarded to 4-H youth is unique.”

MSU Pre-College Scholarships are a $2,000 scholarship awarded to students in their first year as a degree-seeking student at MSU. To be eligible, youth must be in eighth, nineth, tenth or eleventh grade following their MSU pre-college program involvement and be nominated to represent their program before completing an application and essay.

Pre-college programs are offered by colleges or universities and provide high school students with a hands-on opportunity to explore a major or career, interact with faculty and oftentimes try out college life for a few days.Michigan 4-H’s signature pre-college programs include 4-H Exploration Days, a three-day camp where youth have the opportunity to experience campus life at MSU; 4-H Great Lakes and Natural Resources Camp, a seven-day camp where youth learn all about the Great Lakes ecosystem; 4-H Animal and Veterinary Science Camp, a four-day camp where youth explore the fields of animal and veterinary science; and 4-H Capitol Experience, a three-day conference where youth focus on civic engagement and public policy. Through their participation in these activities, youth are encouraged to attend postsecondary education as they receive real-life college experiences and explore potential career choices.

“Our 4-H pre-college programs are a great way for youth to explore an area of interest to them and learn more about the various careers that exist in that area,” continued Chapin. “We’re grateful to have so many opportunities specifically in 4-H that make it a little easier for youth to define their future.”

For more information about the Michigan 4-H program and its precollege opportunities, visit the Michigan 4-H website.