It’s time to hit the road! Now that you’ve started thinking about what you’ve accomplished this year, your next step is writing either a background paragraph or a letter to the project judge, depending on your age group. This is the very first page of your portfolio, and it’s your chance to say hello and share a little about who you are.

No need to stress. Think of it like writing a note to someone who is excited to learn more about your 4-H journey.

 

If you are a Junior (7th or 8th grader), your portfolio will begin with a Background paragraph. This is the only part of your portfolio where you can include things that happened before 2025.

This section is your chance to tell the judge a little about who you are. You can include:

• Where you live or go to school

• Information about your family

• Hobbies or interests you have

• Why you joined 4-H

• Why you chose your project area

Keep it short and simple. You only need one paragraph that helps the judge get to know you better before they dive into the rest of your portfolio.

Your letter is your chance to introduce yourself and talk about your 4-H experience in your own voice. It helps the judge connect with you before they even see the rest of your portfolio.

There are no strict rules about what to say, but here are some ideas:

• Why you chose your project area

• What you’ve learned this year

• What you’re proud of

• Any challenges you faced

• What you hope to do next in 4-H

The letter should be addressed to “Dear Project Judge” and signed by the 4-H'er at the bottom.

Not sure what to write? Start by thinking about these questions:

• Why did you pick this project?

• What is something new you learned?

• What is one thing you are really proud of?

• What is a goal you have for the future?

Your answers can help shape your letter. Keep it honest and simple. The judge is just hoping to learn more about you and your 4-H experience.

For Juniors (7th–8th grade):
Write your Background paragraph.
Use your own words to introduce yourself and share why you joined 4-H or chose your project. Ask someone you trust to review it, then save a final version for your portfolio.

For Seniors (9th–12th grade):
Write a draft of your Project Judge letter.
Ask a parent, teacher, or 4-H leader to check it for grammar and clarity. Once it’s ready, save the final copy into the document that you will turn in to Ms. Heather in January.

You are doing a great job. Take it one step at a time, and you will be ready for Project Achievement before you know it. Keep going. We are cheering you on every step of the way!