Where are you from?
I am from Pike County, Georgia, about 20 minutes south of Griffin.
What does an average day on the job look like?
As a state 4-H specialist, my days are filled with tasks that support county 4-H programs in all things related to science.
I’m writing lesson plans, providing trainings for faculty, staff and volunteers, coordinating grants, maintaining partnerships, and leading state-level 4-H science programs and events.
My favorite days are when I’m working directly with faculty, staff, volunteers and especially 4-H youth! Volunteering at petting zoos, co-teaching club meetings, or assisting youth with project work … No two days are alike and my favorite days at work are never in an office!
Why did you choose to be a part of UGA Extension?
Growing up in rural Georgia, 4-H was a way to learn new information, form relationships with caring adults, and develop life skills.
Working for Extension allows me to empower adults to support young people as they pursue their goals and dreams. Science, especially environmental science and education, is my passion.
Upon graduating college, my first job was serving as a 4-H Environmental Education (EE) instructor at Wahsega 4-H Center where I used the outdoors as a classroom to teach guests ecology, living history, outdoor skills and team building.
Anything I can do to help 4-H professionals provide positive learning experiences for kids, I’ll be there. Some days, I have to pinch myself and make sure I’m not dreaming.
“We have an obligation and privilege to serve Georgians by teaching them how to think and not what to think through our research- and evidence-based programming efforts,” said Bozeman.
“We have an obligation and privilege to serve Georgians by teaching them how to think and not what to think through our research- and evidence-based programming efforts,” said Bozeman.
What has been the best experience you've had so far as part of Extension?
Before being a specialist, I was the Liberty County 4-H agent. I’ll never forget on the way to a 4-H trip, my kids were identifying trees and evaluating the land as we drove down the road … for fun. They were using the knowledge they learned in Forestry and Land Judging competitions.
My dorky environmental science heart was so proud! What high school student begins to name off trees while we are sitting in the 4-H van at a red light?!
How has your experience in the organization changed you?
Working in Extension is tough, but we have an obligation and privilege to serve Georgians by teaching them how to think and not what to think through our research- and evidence-based programming efforts.
Extension has taught me how to be strong, kind and resilient.
Before becoming a state specialist, Bozeman provided science education as part of the Georgia 4-H Military Program.
Before becoming a state specialist, Bozeman provided science education as part of the Georgia 4-H Military Program.
I’ve learned to never give up on people – whether that is a 4-H’er unsure of trying something new or an agent reluctant to teach science programs. Stepping out of our comfort zones only makes the zone larger in the future.
What do you like to do outside of work — hobbies, interests, secret talents?
I love the outdoors – hiking, camping, gardening, reading books in the hammock. I enjoy arts and crafts, especially knitting, embroidery and ceramics.
My newest hobby is crafting funky homemade pizza recipes and trying them out!
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