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4-H PORTFOLIOS

4-H Portfolios are the combination of a resume and cover letter
Resumes: The resume should represent a cumulative summary of the 4-H members background, skills, and accomplishments. The 4-H member should summarize their 4-H experience by highlighting their project involvement, activities, awards/recognitions, leadership experiences, and community service. Each year, applicants will need to update their information, maintaining the most pertinent information over time. Content should be clearly identified as 4-H or non-4-H; style of resume and formatting are at the discretion of the applicant. Applicants should include contact information, county, school grade, and year in 4-H. Maximum 2 pages.
Cover Letters: The cover letter should be a narrative to accompany the resume. When applying for different 4-H contests, leadership roles, etc., the cover letter should be tailored to the requirements of the application. Each application must have the outlined responsibilities posted. Rubrics should be tailored to specific responsibilities/objectives. Maximum 1 page. Click here to view the Cover Letter Objectives.
COVER LETTER OBJECTIVES
4-H Portfolios are the Standard Application Tool for:
- State & Regional Leadership Roles
- National 4-H Conference
- National 4-H Congress
- County Awards Nights and Portfolio Contests
- 4-H State Ambassador
- State Portfolio Contest
Need Help Getting Started?
Sample 4-H Resumes
*Please refer to the 4-H Portfolio Guide Book for appropriate Ages & Stages while judging. Sample 4-H Cover Letter
Sample Cover Letter 1
*Be sure to design your resume & cover letter to reflect your strengths and application, these are only examples NOT templates.
Record Keeping:
Please use these project sheets as a resource for record keeping. Project sheets are not required in most State 4-H Applications. Some Livestock shows have opted to require a project sheet in addition to the 4-H Portfolio. Check with your county and contests to see if they require project sheets.
State 4-H Portfolio Contest:
The State 4-H Portfolio Contest is the only time of year to receive feedback about your 4-H resume and cover letter on a state level. The 4-H Portfolio is the standard application tool for all 4-H leadership positions and a valuable resource as you seek employment. Competing in the State 4-H Portfolio Contest will give you a competitive advantage as you apply for other opportunities. Blue, red, and white ribbons will be awarded based on your scores. 4-H members of all ages are encouraged to submit their 4-H Portfolio. Deadline for submissions: February 15, 2021.
Cover Letter Objectives:
- What personal growth have you experienced this year?
- What does 4-H mean to you?
- What goals do you have based on your 4-H experience?
- How has 4-H prepared you for the future?