Workshops

Session A

8:30am – 10:15am

A1 – Chef Buck’s Etiquette
Eric Larsen, WSU Extension Volunteer Specialist

Have you ever sat down at a table and wondered why there were 3 forks, 3 spoons, 2 knives, and 3 plates?  This workshop is for you then!  Chef Buck will navigate you through the layout of the table so the next time you sit down for a formal meal everyone will be looking to you for which fork to use or how to pass the salt and pepper. Competition for acceptance into colleges and good jobs is becoming increasingly tough and those who possess social skills that are well developed and natural, will stand out in the crowd and have a big leg up on their peers.   Come learn Chef Buck’s secret recipe to etiquette success.  Now don’t forget to place that napkin in your lap!  Excuse me… no phones at the table!

A2 – Three Essential Skills for Post High-School Success: Marketing Yourself, Communicating Effectively, and Persevering Through Challenges
Nico Patel, AHEC Senior Project Associate

Get some very practical takeaways on how to navigate life after school. Learn how to stay motivated in troubled times, spot lies in conversations, and rock a first impression.

A3 – Examine the Evidence
Anna Wilson, Forensic Scientist, Washington State Patrol Crime Laboratory

Participants will discover what it is like in a real crime lab, explore the expanding field of forensic science, and put their newfound knowledge to the test by examining the evidence.

A4 – Let Your TRUE Colors Shine!
Bridget Rohner, WSU Extension Youth & Families

Discover your personality and discuss possible careers best suited for your personality.

A5 – Think Like an Entrepreneur!
Jordan Tampien, WSU Extension Community Economic Development Regional Specialist

What is an entrepreneur?  This Interactive workshop introduces participants to the life of an entrepreneur. We will talk about coming up with that brilliant business idea and walk through the process of turning that idea into a business that the participants will present in front of the group.  We will introduce business principles in an easy-to-learn format.

A6 – Relationship Survival Guide
Amy Voltz, Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse, Coordinator of Domestic Violence Services
Brenna Tate, Alternative to Violence of the Palouse, Sexual Assault Prevention Educator

Navigating relationships can be a challenge. Join our interactive seminar that will be your guide to identifying and creating healthy relationships with people all around you, from those who you just met all the way up to dating partners. Hone your abilities in assertive communication, respect, and boundaries in small and fun group exercises. Measure your personal bubble, learn how to say no and respect no, and test your skills at compromise. Be the person that everyone turns to for relationship advice: be it makeup or break up.

A7 – A Day in the Life of a Vet
William Dernell, WSU College of Veterinary Medicine

Ever wonder what it takes to be a veterinarian?  Well wonder no more!  Students will spend two hours observing small and large animal veterinarians.  They will also learn the things they need to do now if they are interested in a career in veterinary medicine.  In addition, students will get the opportunity to see an equine treadmill demonstration.

A8 – Make it and Take it Sausage
Paul Kuber, WSU NE Livestock Regional Extension Specialist

Americans consume food animal derived products every day.  This workshop is designed to instruct participants in “Artisanal Sausage” making.  Using basic skills and techniques, most consumers can make their own sausage capitalizing on custom homemade/local products.  Many of these products were derived as a result of cultural preferences and were used for the purposes of food preservation, flavor enhancement, and adding value to lower valued products.  Participants will learn the culinary art of making a “Super Sagey” breakfast sausage.  Each participant will leave with 1 lb. of sausage, sausage formulation recipe cards to recreate this recipe and others at home, food safety information, and information about careers in the meats/food animal industry.

A9 – You Too Have the Power to Save a Life
R-A Mazzola, 4-H Volunteer, Tashunka, LLC
Tenley Mange, Teen Advocate

Did you know that in the US, one teenager dies almost every half hour because of suicide? Are you worried about a friend or family member who may be struggling with depression, anxiety or lost interest in things they normally enjoy? Join us for a heartfelt workshop on Suicide Awareness and Prevention. Learn about warning signs of suicide, risk factors, how to help, and resources available to all of us. Are you still not sure if you want to attend? We have candy!

A10 – Be Your Brand
Anna Whitehall, WSU, CAHNRS Academic Programs

How do people describe you?  How will people remember you?  Come spend some time identifying what is important to you and how you want to live those out in your life with fun and engaging activities that will keep you moving.  You will get time to interact with your friends and get creative with art supplies all while deciding what your brand is.  You don’t want to miss out on this workshop.

A11 – Nature has moved to the City and Wants You to Know It
Dr. Steve McConnell, WSU Regional Extension Specialist in Forestry

Nature used to be “out in the forest” or in a National Park or Monument.  As the number of people on the planet has increased, however, we are learning more ways that nature provides valuable goods and services to people and we are learning new ways to partner with nature to make our environment pleasant wherever we may live.  In this class we will learn about the different kinds of forest around us – working forests, wildland-urban-interfaces, community forests and urban forests.  We will talk about what we benefits we get from each, challenges to managing each and the big picture reasons this is important.  Best of all, we will spend some time outdoors learning some key skills for understanding forests in each of these types.

A12 – Three, Two, One…Blast Off to College!
Paul Verrell, WSU School of Biological Sciences

Many of today’s best jobs require that you continue your education beyond high school, perhaps at a place like WSU.  We’ll ask and answer two questions.  Can you prepare for success in college while still in high school? And what will it be like in your first one or two semesters on a college campus?  Using information provided by real WSU students – people who were once just like you are now – we’ll explore how you can sharpen up your time management, reading and writing skills to increase your success in that important first semester.  We’ll discuss what you can expect as a new college student, from where you’ll live to what you’ll study.   And we’ll take a look at some of the challenges students face, and outline strategies to help you work toward success in college and beyond.

A13 – Weathering Ups and Downs
Dr. Susan Kerr, WSU NW Livestock and Dairy Regional Specialist Department

One thing we all have in common is the fact that our lives will have ups and downs.  This workshop will include several activities to help you look at life’s ups and downs in a new way and gain some tools to use with others struggling with disappointment.

A14 – You won the Lottery… Now What?
Melanie Owens, WSU Extension Youth and Families: 4-H Program Coordinator

So you have just been elected treasurer for your club, school ASB or household, how fiscally responsible are you? Financial Management is no laughing matter. Dreams can live or die on how well money is managed. Whether you are managing the United States Treasury account or your own college fund, basic money management skills are a necessity. Using a hands on approach you will learn how to keep track of your money and assets.

A15 – Combat Challenge
Pat Fitzgerald, Pullman Fire Department

Come experience some of the physical requirements of being a firefighter and see if you’re up for the job.  Activities will include donning turnouts, pulling hose, carrying equipment, and dragging a victim out of a hazard area.  Must wear closed-toed shoes or sneakers and be ready to get sweaty!

A16 – Kickboxing and Self Defense
URC Workshop

In this kickboxing-martial arts combination, we’ll learn proper technique for both kickboxing and aikido, as well as aikido’s discipline and philosophy, which is truly oriented at self-defense and is one of the most peaceful forms of martial arts.