By: Trent Jones, Extension Agent
Junior High Academic Conference is an educational program on the campus of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This year’s event was held through the week of June 14-17th. Participants received intensive training in their 4-H project areas under the supervision of university faculty and specialists and explored related career opportunities. The conference provides a variety of rewarding and fun-filled experiences in the classroom, outdoors and laboratory settings.
Two Smith County 4-Her’s became University of Tennessee students for a week as they attended this year’s Academic Conference, Emma Baker in Clothing and Textiles and Tyler Hackett in Swine.
Both 4-H’ers had a lot to say about their experiences at Academic conference. They all had the opportunity to work in the lab and out in field alongside highly respected University of Tennessee professors and specialist in multiple project sessions. Each project session focuses on giving our youth a better understanding of their project and exploring possible career goals.
All Academic Conference delegates were treated to a free day at Dollywood. Delegates also completed a service project at Beardsley Farm, The Ronald McDonald House, and multiple other locations. The week was wrapped up with a formal recognition banquet and a closing dance.
To be selected to Academic Conference is a great honor and as well as a great opportunity to explore future career goals while living a college experience. The best part is, it is all free! If you are interested in applying for Academic Conference next year, or would like more information, please call the Smith County UT Extension Office at 735-2900.
Smith County 4-H’ers, Tyler Hackett and Emma Baker wait to board the bus to Academic Conference.
