Celina seniors reflect on 4-H experiences and future plans

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Three Celina High School seniors discussed the skills, friendships and career interests they have developed through 4-H during Wednesday’s edition of WCSM’s Spectrum.

Mason Homan, Ty Shoupe and Logan Homan joined the program as WCSM continued its recognition of National 4-H Week.

Mason Homan has been involved in 4-H for approximately six years as a member of the Barnyard Center 4-H Club. His interest began after a family friend invited him to show a dairy animal at the Mercer County Fair.

In addition to showing steers, Mason has completed projects involving rockets and woodworking. He said 4-H members can join after elementary school and still enjoy a meaningful experience.

Mason currently attends the agriculture industrial program at Tri Star. After graduation, he plans to complete his general education courses at Wright State University before studying nuclear medicine at Rhodes State College.

Shoupe serves as secretary of the Washington Winners 4-H Club and has been involved with 4-H for 14 years. He began showing beef steers approximately 11 years ago after being introduced to the program through his family.

Woodworking has remained one of Shoupe’s primary interests. His projects have included birdhouses, benches, a nightstand and a walnut dresser. His nightstand and dresser were both selected for competition at the Ohio State Fair.

Shoupe said his club also emphasizes public speaking by requiring members to speak in front of the group each year. He believes that experience helps members become more comfortable speaking with judges and presenting themselves confidently.

After high school, Shoupe plans to attend the University of Northwestern Ohio and is considering programs involving automotive, diesel or high-performance mechanics. He currently works at an automotive shop in Coldwater.

Logan Homan has spent six years with the Barnyard Center 4-H Club. His projects have included an experiment designed to protect an egg during a drop and a garden containing watermelons, peppers, tomatoes and cucumbers.

Logan attends Tri Star’s new law and public safety program. He plans to pursue law-enforcement training in Columbus after graduation and hopes to eventually become an Ohio State Highway Patrol trooper.

He said his interest in law enforcement grew after entering the Tri Star program and learning more about the field. Work-based learning opportunities are expected to give students experience with police departments, correctional facilities and other public-safety agencies.

All three students also discussed the value of meeting people through 4-H and Tri Star, along with the responsibility required to complete projects and care for animals.

Wednesday’s Spectrum program was part of WCSM’s weeklong recognition of local 4-H members, families and volunteers.