4-H Plans Series to Highlight Graduating Seniors...First Up: Jessica Pedersen

We are pleased to recognize our graduating seniors this year with an individualized blog post about each. Many thanks to Summer Intern Aldyn Abell for interviewing these young adults and readying their stories for print. 

Today we highlight Jessica Pedersen. 

Photo taken by Seizetheday Photography, LLC

“I used to be really shy, but 4-H brought me out of my shell and has helped me develop public speaking skills, self-confidence, and a love for service,” says Jessica Pedersen, who is a graduating senior of the Orange County 4-H Program. Jessica lives here in Orange and graduated from Orange County High School on June 13th. This fall, she will begin her freshman year at Regent University as a Communications Major. With a goal of pursuing a career in agricultural sustainability, Jessica plans to focus her studies in Public Relations to equip herself with the necessary communication skills needed to become an advocate for agricultural practices to the non-farming community.

Jessica has been involved in Orange County 4-H for the past eight years. Her involvement ranges from participating in the 4-H Livestock Club and Stockman's Team to various community service projects and competing at the Orange County Fair with her market lambs and hogs, art, and yummy baked goods! She has served in a variety of leadership roles including two years as Secretary of the livestock club, and now currently as Vice President. Jessica’s dedication to service is also recognizable through her involvement in service learning projects, including helping with the food pantry and planting flowers at a local nursing home. She credits 4-H with helping her develop self-confidence that has allowed her to become more outgoing, assertive, and involved in the community.

Participating in 4-H over the past eight years, she has created many memories. She recalls some of her fondest memories being at the Orange County Fair. “It’s what you work towards all year, you get to hang out with all your 4-H friends at the fair and have fun. Then at the end of the week you get to put on your sparkly belt, boots, go in the show ring, and show off all your hard work.” For her last year showing at the fair, Jessica will be competing with her two market lambs and market hog.

Good luck this fall at Regent University, Jessica!