Hello.
My name is Elayna and I just turned 16 years old.  I am asking for your help and consideration for an upcoming adventure!

I became involved in our local 4H program about 6 years ago. Since then, I have participated in many things within that program: raising/showing livestock at local/state fairs, held 4H local office positions, participated in hosting international students from Japan and more.

Last year, with my 4H earnings, birthday money and fundraising I was able to go to Japan through the 4H international program and attend a Nihongo school (Language).  This really opened my eyes as to what I can possibly do in my life. In the months since I have been home, I have spoke at length to my youth group, my family/friends and to our local 4H group about my experience in Japan. I have also brought back treats to share.  Sometimes soon, my county 4H office will have me do an interview to share at the 4h county level.

My next destination is Norway. I will be attending through the same 4H International program.  I have already applied for the program, applied for a scholarship for it (I will not know until January about this),  have been saving birthday money again, fundraising by making crafts to sell and have just applied for a part time job.  My homeschooling allows more freedom to work this way.  

In addition to homeschooling and 4H, I love to play the ukulele, and tinker with learning to play the electric guitar.  I also volunteer at our church, volunteer with my parents running their food pantry, and also co-lead worship for my youth group. I just finished mentoring with Girls on the Run program which encourages young girls in elementary and middle school to participate in cross country/track and simply to be active. This is a seasonal program that just finished up with a 5K race with the girls. 

The reason I chose Norway is simple. My family heritage is Norwegian. My great grandfather is 100% Norwegian and my Great-Great grandfather & grandmother immigrated from Norway.  In fact, we still have extended family living there.  I am looking forward to going there, learning more hands on about culture, foods and heritage of my family.

I appreciate your consideration!! Thank you for reading!

Elayna