Extension offers various opportunities for UConn students, including applying classroom knowledge in the field in independent study and other experiential learning opportunities to fulfilling careers after graduation and maintaining connection to advance the mission of the university as volunteers and partners. Pop-up events were held in Storrs and at all four regional campuses: Avery Point, Hartford, Stamford and Waterbury.  The goals of these events included increasing student awareness of Extension and learning about the work that Extension does in communities in Connecticut.

At the events, Extension educators and students provided information on programs offered by Extension, careers in Extension, and general information on One Health, nutrition, physical activity and sustainability. Various incentive items were provided, including seeds, educational materials, and nutritional resources to promote healthy eating and safe food preparation.

To assess the effectiveness of the events, a short Qualtrics survey was provided for students to complete using a QR code. Thirty-nine first year students, 35 sophomores, 16 juniors, eight seniors, three graduate students, one visiting student and one staff member completed the survey. Of these respondents, 90 people (87%) had not heard of Extension previously, displaying the need for events enhancing Extension awareness. Of those surveyed, 65 expressed interest in learning more about Extension and 71 planned to apply what they learned at the event. In discussions at the events, 42 of those surveyed indicated learning about 4-H, 50 learned about EFNEP, 41 learned about the Master Gardener Program, 52 learned about One Health and nine learned about other programs. It is important to highlight that only a subset of students completed the survey, but the results indicate that a majority of the students that participated learned important information about Extension and valued the information shared. In addition to the benefits to participants, Extension educators working at these events and on the project found this to be an excellent opportunity to network and share Extension work with academic departments and staff. Students also assisted in the events for independent study, providing additional beneficial learning experiences.

To continue to reach students where they are, a video (below) was created with a videographer discussing Extension and opportunities to get involved in careers and other community engagement opportunities. This video will be promoted on websites and social media and shared at future events with UConn students. The group is grateful for funding provided by the CAHNR strategic initiatives, and look forward to continuing to promote Extension in the UConn community.

Article by Mike Puglisi