CALS Senior Turns 4-H Passion Into Successful Internship

University of Idaho senior and Caldwell-based UI Extension 4-H Youth Development intern Amber Bucknell’s articles appeared in various publications across the state during the summer months in 2015.

Her weekly column in the “Idaho Press Tribune” covered news and events from UI Extension’s Eat Smart Idaho and 4-H Food Smart Families programs and their impact on communities and youth.

“I have been involved with 4-H in Canyon County for nearly 17 years, and this internship has been the highlight of my 4-H career,” said Bucknell.

Idaho is one of seven states in the U.S. to receive a grant to deliver the program, which is going on its second year and is no longer lacking publicity, thanks to Bucknell. The program delivers healthy living initiatives to youth in grades three through eight with the cooperation of summer school programs, organizations and events.

Participants learn through hands-on activities and experiences from hiking to food handling, safety and nutrition.

“I take the curriculum for the program, which I spin off into easily read stories of about 500 words, in a way that is educational and promotional for the public,” said Bucknell.

On top of article-writing, Bucknell handled social media sites and took photographs at big events, such as the Coeur d’Alene Farmer’s Market and the final Lights On Afterschool event in Boise.

Bucknell is a first-generation university student and will graduate from the UI in spring 2016 with a degree in agricultural sciences, communications and leadership from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. Her goal is to stay in the Northwest and become a 4-H Youth Development Extension educator, which will allow her to continue reaching out to communities directly.

But don’t expect her byline to disappear. 

“I do like the PR too,” said Bucknell. “I could keep doing things like this.”