International Program for Young Adults

Published: 2020
By Ardis Oelkers

Randee Shannon, an International Program for Young Adults representative, shared her experiences while living in Finland and Germany to Roosevelt County students, senior citizens and 4-H members. Shannon was an active 10-year Prairie County 4-H member, graduated from Terry public schools, and in 2019 spent close to six months experiencing a deeper level of culture by living and interacting with six different host families through the Montana 4-H International Program for Young Adults. The basis of the exchange program is to implement the 4-H “learning by doing” model. Shannon was able to live with host families and actively participate in family life that is not possible through a directed tour visit to another country. An appreciation of the social, economic, political and cultural contributions of the country was developed while living in central, northern and southern Finland. While staying with German families in the north along the North Sea and the Elbe River and in the southeast along the Czech Republic border, Shannon acquired specific subject matter skills and knowledge that prepared her to share the international experience through presentations. Over 140 Roosevelt County adults and youth were able to grow their cultural awareness, gain knowledge about Finland and Germany, and have a better understanding of how culture influences values, beliefs and attitudes. The presentations were a great opportunity for community members to learn about another culture without traveling.