agricultural education

Meet Sara Tomis: New London County 4- H Intern

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Greetings! My name is Sara Tomis and I am working as an intern for the New London County 4-H Office. I am majoring in Agriculture and Natural Resources (AGNR) at the University of Connecticut, and I intend to pursue a Master’s Degree in Agricultural Education upon the completion of my undergraduate degree. I aspire to combine my passion for animal science and horticulture with my passion for outreach to develop a successful career in agricultural education.

I am involved in FFA as a member of the CT State Association Executive Committee, and I currently serve as a board member on the New London County Agricultural Extension Council. In addition to my internship in the New London County 4-H office, I work as a social media specialist in UConn CAHNR Extension and assist in UConn social media outreach for the National Healthy Homes Partnership. This past spring, I had the pleasure of drafting and speaking in an #AskUConnExtension video detailing healthy hygiene when interacting with animals. This opportunity enabled me to expand on my writing skills, content delivery skills, and impact while spreading a message that is close to my heart.

This summer, I am assisting in the delivery and preparation of our virtual 4-H Summer Library Program. I am working to tie agricultural concepts into our program content to increase agricultural awareness in New London County youth. Additionally, I am assisting in the facilitation of the UConn 4-H Ozobot Club, which brings 4-Hers together from across our state to learn about robotics and technology. I am also working to prepare our New London County Virtual Exhibition which will take the place of our traditional fair and highlight proficiency, knowledge, and growth in New London County 4-Hers. I am excited to be working to produce accessible education and growth opportunities for youth in my community!

4-H Work Readiness Program

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Tolland County Extension partnered with EastConn on a 4-H Work Readiness program for three weeks in the summer of 2012.  Two groups with fifteen students each met five days per week.  The focus of the program was on garden and grounds maintenance.  Students also learned to fill out applications, interview for a job, and create a resume and cover letter.  Other projects included garden creation and planting at Windham Middle School, and a composting project with Annie Vinton School in Mansfield.  Both groups spent a day at UConn and had guided tours of the creamery and greenhouse in Storrs, where the staff discussed what it takes to work at each place.  The last day of the program featured a ropes course at EastConn that was very popular with all of the students.