Illinois 4-H is helping young people develop skills for success after high school, according to data from the 2026 Illinois 4-H Senior Survey released on Apr. 27.
The survey of 334 graduating members found that youth who participated in the program for nearly twelve years reported strong preparation for college, careers, and adult life. The findings show that almost nine out of ten respondents felt ready for work and adulthood because of their time in the program, while eighty-three percent said they were prepared for college. Nearly all participants—ninety-eight percent—reported gaining job-related skills through their involvement.
“4-H provides young people with hands-on experiences that build confidence, leadership, and real-world skills,” said Kevin Carey, University of Illinois Extension 4-H assistant dean and program leader. “These findings reinforce that youth are not only prepared for what comes next, they are beyond ready.”
Survey results indicate most graduates plan to continue their education: eighty-four percent intend to attend a two- or four-year college. Among these students, eighty-five percent have already chosen a major such as agriculture, education, health sciences, engineering or business. Some plan to enter the workforce directly or pursue other paths like starting businesses or trade programs. State-level events also influenced future plans; forty-two percent of those who participated in such activities said these experiences shaped their career goals.
Leadership opportunities remain central to Illinois 4-H’s approach: seventy-three percent served as club officers with many taking on additional roles at county or state levels. Participants reported developing communication abilities and responsibility through these experiences.
In addition to leadership development, hands-on learning contributed to workforce readiness; eighty percent held part-time jobs during high school and fourteen percent started businesses using skills learned from projects. Many earned certifications in areas like food safety and first aid.
Ninety-four percent described Illinois 4-H as an important part of their identity while ninety-three percent felt supported by peers in the program.
Illinois 4-H operates within University of Illinois Extension serving youth across Urbana and Champaign—the twin cities where the University is located—according to the official website. The University functions as a public research institution aiming to advance discovery through research and education according to its website. It serves as the flagship campus of the University of Illinois System according to its website, enrolling students from all fifty states and over one hundred countries while offering more than one hundred fifty undergraduate programs according to its website.
Looking ahead, Illinois 4-H continues efforts focused on leadership development along with career exploration in STEM fields such as agriculture and healthy living.
