OKEECHOBEE — Each summer, Florida teens flock to the University of Florida to participate in 4-H University.

This event takes place over the span of one week, usually at the end of July. This year, the program began on July 31 and ended on Aug. 3. Participants must be senior 4-H members, age 14-18 during the current 4-H year. 

Participants were able to spend time getting to know other 4-H members while also learning new things. They were able to participate in competitive events such as demonstrations, illustrated talks and even public speaking contests. In addition, they had the opportunity to take part in the Share the Fun competition. Cohen, Cortez and Hilderbrand did a skit which  resulted in a lot of laughter in the crowd. Montes de Oca did an illustrated talk about dairy judging. 

Four teens from Okeechobee County attended 4-H University this summer — Reese Cohen, Alyssa Cortez, Emily Hilderbrand and Kathryn Montes de Oca.

For Cohen and Hilderbrand, it was a bittersweet time as the two headed off to college soon after and bid farewell to their years as 4-H kids. Although she did not win, Cohen was honored to have been nominated for Leader of the Legacy.

All four girls agree the program is a lot of fun and they would love to go again. “Everyone should try to go at least once,” said Cortez.