4-H has changed my life in so many ways throughout the years. When I was in elementary school I was always the victim of the bullies. My older sister was in 4-H and convinced me to join and become part of something bigger. When I joined I was extremely afraid of what was going to happen because I was not sure about it at all. I joined 4-H and went through my first year went to achievement day. During that summer I decided to go to 4-H Camp and try to pull myself out of my constricting shell. I went and had the time of my life. The following year I joined 4-H again and that year I decided to run for an office. I ran for the office of the C.R.D. I got the office and so did several other people. I went through that year and once again went to 4-H camp. It was my sixth grade year and at the beginning of the school year I gave my hair to locks of love so children that did not have hair could have a real hair wig. I was teased so much that I quickly lost all of my self-confidence. I did not feel like being in any clubs but I joined 4-H anyways. I struggled through that year and did not go to 4-H camp. In my seventh grade year I had a self-confidence class I was required to take. I decided very quickly to join 4-H once again that year. I had the time of my life that year I made so many new friends and finally pulled myself out of my shell and stayed out for the entire year. That summer I attended 4-H University for the very first time and competed in the fashion category. When I left the campus I was so happy I had gone to the week of college life. In the eighth grade I was so confident I ran for president of my school club but ended up as C.R.D. once again. I attended 4-H U once again and that time I was having so much fun I did not want to leave. I competed in the talent competition and had a great time talking with the other talented people. Now I am in the ninth grade in 4-H for my 6th year and already having a lot of fun. To all of you reading this 4-H can bring you a long ways in life I stated being a shy little girls and now I love to be the one all eyes are on. Keep what you want in site and live life to the fullest. Thank you to all the agents and leaders that make 4-H possible you are truly amazing.
Willow Barrett
Washington Parish, Louisiana