Listen to the full interview on our Kubota Podcast
A Lincoln County 4-H member is turning a dream vacation into a hands-on learning experience—complete with detailed planning, budgeting, and career exploration.
During a recent 4-H podcast interview, Extension Educator Caitlin Jacobson and 4-H member Jozlyn Knepp joined host Paxton Gordon to discuss Knepp’s “Plan a Vacation” project, which centers on a fully developed cruise itinerary to Italy.
Knepp’s project outlines a seven-day cruise departing from Barcelona with multiple stops throughout Italy. The plan includes everything from airfare and lodging to excursions and onboard activities, showcasing the depth of research and organization required.
“I was the one to plan basically everything,” Knepp said, explaining she began with airfare before selecting a cruise and mapping out activities at each destination.
Her itinerary features popular European destinations and excursions, including visits to World War II tunnels, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and even a lavender museum.
Knepp chose a Princess Cruises voyage on one of the company’s newest and largest ships, highlighting both her interest in travel and her attention to detail when selecting options.
The project also required careful budgeting. Knepp noted that travel expenses—including flights, cruise costs, and excursions—added up quickly, offering a realistic look at the financial side of trip planning.
“I learned that cruises are very expensive,” she said.
Jacobson said projects like Knepp’s are a key part of 4-H’s mission to help youth discover their interests and potential career paths.
“The whole goal of 4-H is to help youth find their spark,” Jacobson said. “Planning a vacation might translate into being a travel agent…finding out what’s out there and seeing if that is an interest of yours.”
In addition to highlighting student projects, the local 4-H program continues to offer monthly activities and resources. April’s take-home project kit will feature a “Seek and Find” bottle, designed as an engaging activity for youth or even babysitters to use with children.
Jacobson also encouraged families to stay connected through the Lincoln, Logan, and McPherson County 4-H Facebook page or by contacting the Extension Office at 308-532-2683 for information on upcoming workshops and summer programs.
As warmer weather approaches, organizers say now is the perfect time for youth to get involved in 4-H and explore new interests—whether that’s baking, travel planning, or countless other project areas.
For Knepp, the experience has already mapped out more than just a vacation—it may be the first step toward a future career.