About the Conference
Join us for the 2026 Road Trip: College & Career Day, a one-day conference designed for Illinois youth in grades 8–12 who are exploring their future educational and career goals. This engaging event provides opportunities to connect with peers, learn from professionals, and discover the many pathways available after high school.
- Audience: Youth in 8th-12th grade
- Open to: 4-H members, school, and youth organizations in Illinois
- Attire: Business or business casual attire
Participants will attend interactive workshops focused on college and career readiness, explore Illinois 4-H opportunities, and gain valuable resources to help prepare for life after graduation.
Program Goals
The goal of Road Trip: College & Career Day is to empower Illinois 4-H youth with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to successfully transition into college, careers, and other post-secondary opportunities.
Through hands-on workshops and engaging discussions, participants will explore topics such as:
- College admissions and application tips
- Scholarships and financial aid, including FAFSA
- Career exploration and educational pathways
- Career, Technical & Trades
- Entrepreneurship
- Professional development and leadership skills
- Networking and career readiness
By the end of the conference, youth will be better prepared to make informed decisions about their future and pursue their personal and professional goals.
Event Schedule
- 8:00–9:00 AM: Check-In
- 8:30–9:00 AM: Exhibitor/College Networking
- 9:00–9:50 a.m. – Breakout Session 1
- 10:00–10:50 a.m. – Breakout Session 2
- 11:00–11:50 a.m. – Breakout Session 3
- 12:00–12:50 p.m. – Lunch & Learn: Illinois 4-H Opportunities and Networking
- 1:00–1:50 p.m. – Optional Campus Tours
- 1:50 p.m. – Conference Dismissal
Workshop Sessions
The Financial Aid Process
Presented by: Kylie Rae Morefield, ISACorps Member, Heartland Community College District & Audrie Schuller, ISACorps Member, Heartland Community College District
Organization: Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC)
This session outlines the general financial aid process and provides insight on how financial aid works, how to apply for it, student eligibility, and how it can be used to help pay for college. It introduces the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Alternative Application for Illinois Financial Aid, along with summarizing state and federal aid programs among other topics.
The Power of Mindfulness: Your Stress Fighting Superpower
Presented by: Sara Attig, Health and Family Educator
Organization: University of Illinois Extension
Every superhero faces challenges, pressure, setbacks, and villains. In real life, stress can be our villain. Mindfulness can be a superpower that helps us stay focused, calm, and ready to respond instead of react. In this session, you will identify your own stress villains and build a toolkit of hero-worthy coping skills.
Illinois State University and the College Search
Presented by: Morgan Bowen, Admissions Coordinator
Organization: Illinois State University
Ready to start exploring college? Join Illinois State University Admissions to learn the key factors to consider as you begin your college search. We’ll discuss the three types of college fit—academic, social, and financial—walk through the college application process, and share practical steps you can take now to prepare. You’ll also learn more about becoming a Redbird and what it takes to apply to Illinois State University.
What's Next? – Preparation for Senior Year and Beyond
Presented by: Kristin Huls, 4-H Youth Development Educator & Cynthia Colvin, 4-H Program Coordinator
Organization: University of Illinois Extension
Scholarships… job applications… resumes… oh my! Senior year can be intimidating as youth prepare for what their future holds beyond high school. In this session, participants will learn helpful hints as they navigate senior year and beyond.
iDREAM: Don't Stop Believing!
Presented by: Tiffany Cervantes, College and Career Readiness 4-H Program Coordinator
Organization: University of Illinois Extension
College and career success begins with a vision for the future. During this engaging workshop, participants will explore the power of dreaming with purpose by completing the “100 Dreams” challenge. Youth will identify personal aspirations, recognize the value of generating many possibilities, and transform their dreams into meaningful short- and long-term goals. Participants will leave inspired, motivated, and equipped with a roadmap for achieving their future goals.
Beyond Ready for the Interview
Presented by: Illinois 4-H Youth Leadership Team Members
Organization: Illinois 4-H
Whether you’re preparing for a job interview, stepping into your first day of class, or applying for scholarships, knowing how to present yourself with confidence opens doors. In this workshop, participants will learn tried and true interview techniques and the keys to professional etiquette. Through real-world scenarios and hands-on activities, you will leave with a new sense of confidence for your next first impression.
First Impressions – Preparing for Your First Job Interview
Presented by: Martha Ebbesmeyer, 4-H Youth Development Educator & Kelly Lafferty, 4-H Youth Development Educator
Organization: University of Illinois Extension
Be prepared to WOW potential employers. We will help you become beyond ready to ace your first interview with practical suggestions on correctly completing an application, introducing yourself, and gaining ideas of what to wear. In addition, learn how to market your skills by preparing for potential interview questions.
Meet Our Exhibitors & Resource Partners
Youth will have the opportunity to connect with organizations and professionals who can provide information about college, careers, financial aid, technical education, and other resources.
- Heartland Community College – Career & Technical Education
- Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC)
- Equip for Equality
- IBEW Local 601
- Midwest Technical Institute
- University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES)
- United Prairie
- Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy
- State 4-H Leadership & Ambassadors
For questions, please contact:
Programming Questions
Cindy Ogwal
State 4-H College & Career Readiness Specialist
cowusu@illinois.edu
Logistics, Registration, & Accommodation Questions
Jessica Hays
Illinois 4-H Events & Communications Coordinator
jnhays@illinois.edu
State 4-H Office
Phone: (217) 333-0910
