Scholarship Essay Entry – Jodi R.
Young and Free to Make a Difference
A vision is made up of dreams and ambitions of an individual who strives to make a difference in his/her life, or the lives of others around him/her. Specifically, my vision is to keep our province of Alberta close to her roots of agriculture and the western way of life.
The 4-H program in Canada has been going for almost one hundred years. I have personally been involved in the program for eight years, taking part in local clubs and various projects. Last year, I was a Junior Leader, and learned plenty of useful knowledge, which gave me the confidence to lead others. Throughout my years in 4-H, I have been fortunate to have taken many skills away from it and have used them in my everyday life. For example, I presented a speech every year, therefore making me an accomplished public speaker, aiding me in many endeavours. I believe that keeping this valuable program for children is crucial to a successful future. 4-H also teaches youth about agriculture, and the livestock that provide our food. I fear that if it dies off, people will cease to learn about the farming way of life, themselves and other life-long lessons. 4-H is something I am very passionate about, and by keeping it alive and strong, we, as Albertans can continue to educate further generations about our province’s proud traditions.
The second part of my vision is to encourage the participation in the sport of rodeo in not only Alberta, but the rest of Canada as well. Rodeo is a key component in Alberta’s history, and must be kept going to pass on important aspects of our western customs. The way in which I, as an individual, can help promote rodeo is to become a rodeo queen. I was the 2009 Miss Teepee Creek Stampede Queen, and utilized my influential role to educate people about rodeo who knew nothing about it. My next ambition is to become the Miss Grande Prairie Stompede Queen, and potentially Miss Rodeo Canada; the First Lady of Rodeo. With such an important role, and well known figure in society, I would be able to pass on my knowledge to as many people as possible. Therefore, with that dream in mind, I know I could make an exceptional transformation in my community and country by conveying my understanding and experience of rodeo to youth and others, inspiring and motivating individuals to follow their dreams and uphold Alberta’s legacy.
Thus, I believe that my ambitions and goals can make a difference not only to myself, but to my community and potentially the world, no matter how small I may start. My vision holds a bright future for 4-H and rodeo; aspects of my life that I keep close to my heart; for generations to come, and I am determined to make it happen.
