Article By Adrianna E. Meyer

For Mattea Smith, 4-H was so much more than just shooting arrows and cooking projects— it was family tradition, a support system, and an organization that taught her lifelong skills.

Smith, who currently works for Fervo Energy in Houston, Texas, began her 4-H journey as a 4th grader in Avoyelles Parish, participating in shooting sports, sewing, and cooking projects. In high school, she served on the Louisiana State Shooting Sports Board as a representative. She later chose to attend the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, thanks to the lasting connections she made through 4-H.

Shooting sports, such as rifle and archery, hold a special place in Smith’s heart, as she was among the first members to participate in 4-H shooting sports in the state under the guidance of Mrs. Carolyn and Mr. Lonnie Bordelon. Her most memorable memory was of her senior archery competition, where her best friend stood next to her on the shooting line, ready to begin the competition together. Smith described it as one of the windiest days she had ever competed in, but she and her best friend cheered each other on the entire time, providing a support system for each other that helped them keep going, even in the challenging conditions. Her father, a range instructor, was also there that day, cheering her on and giving her the confidence to continue drawing back her arrow, focusing, and releasing.

The support that 4-H gave Smith helped her realize just how much 4-H has assisted her with challenges and opportunities in her life. “4-H made me realize the importance of having a support system and being okay with asking for help and feedback.” Receiving direct feedback from her parish agents, Mrs. Esther and Mr. David Boe, was just one of the various ways she learned this important lesson, and she continues to apply it today in her job.

“The importance of communication, the importance of holding a conversation, interacting with people, and being grounded” are just a few of the 4-H gained skills Smith calls on in her day-to-day role at Fervo Energy. In her role, she regularly interacts with state and federal government officials, engaging in discussions on energy policies and legislation. 4-H reminded her that everyone is human— even those in positions of authority— a lesson she carries into each conversation.

4-H has taught Smith how to be life-ready and develop key soft skills like communication, collaboration, criticalthinking, public speaking, and many more. She encourages today’s 4-H members to participate in as many events as possible, try new things, and embrace learning, because 4-H extends far beyond high school.

Her advice is simple, yet powerful: “Find something you love, and try something new.”

Alumni interested in reconnecting or giving back to the Louisiana 4-H program can learn more today at this link: https://www.lsuagcenter.com/topics/kids_teens/contribute/alumni.

RIGHT: Smith after receiving her 4-H Honor Cords as a graduating high school senior.
Photos courtsey of Mattea Smith.