Next Chapter is a unique college and career readiness program developed in partnership with Tennessee 4-H and the University of Tennessee Knoxville. The program connects students statewide with college and career resources at Tennessee’s state flagship, land-grant university. Next Chapter inspires youth to choose to continue their education after high school through whatever path best suits their career aspirations. The Next Chapter program is offered to all ninety-five Tennessee counties, is county-based, and is offered to youth enrolled in the 4-H program.
The program focuses on workforce development, leadership, community engagement, and life skills, ensuring participants are prepared for their next steps—whether college, technical training, or entering the workforce. Instead of being restricted to specific grade level components, students can complete mastery levels at their own pace throughout high school, progressing as they develop key competencies. The curriculum includes interactive lessons, hands-on projects, career exploration, college readiness activities, and practical financial education to support well-rounded personal and professional growth.
What’s Your Next Chapter? Next Chapter equips high school students with skills, knowledge, and the confidence needed to transition successfully from high school into college and career pathways. Whether you are headed to vocational college/trade school, entering the military, or headed off to work or college, participating in the educational activities offered through Next Chapter will help you become more informed and knowledgeable about on a number of topics including:
- Identifying interests, strengths, and potential pathways
- Build foundational skills for college success, including goal setting, financial literacy basics, and understanding what colleges seek in applicants
- Preparation with advanced financial planning, resume building, leadership skills, and practical strategies for college applications and career networking
- Personalized planning for life after high school, including securing scholarships, finalizing college and career decisions, earning digital credentials, and developing essential workplace skills to confidently transition into their next chapter
Program Goals:
- Support youth in exploring career paths aligned with their strengths and interests
- Provide essential college preparation and financial literacy training
- Foster a statewide network of support among educators, agents, students, and parents
- Enable students to earn digital credentials, enhancing their college applications and professional profiles
Partnerships & Sponsors: There are several departments involved with the implementation of Next Chapter. The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture (UTIA), Tennessee 4-H, Herbert College of Agriculture, and the Office of Enrollment Management.
Scholarship Opportunities: Each 4-H member who completes all four years of modules through Next Chapter qualifies for a $1,500 scholarship per year of attendance at UTK. This is the equivalent to $6,000 total. One student per year will be selected as Next Chapter member of the year with a full scholarship to UTK.
Are you ready? Are you interested in something you’ve seen here? If you know the county you live in and have questions about Next Chapter, reach out to your County 4-H agent to complete the modules and receive credit for completion of the program.
Resources:
- Email Etiquette
- Accessing Canvas Catalog
- 4-H Portfolio Webpage (The resources found on this webpage will assist in creating a 4-H e-portfolio and may help you become eligible to receive college credits in Tennessee 4-H Clover Credit. More information is available from the 4-H agent in your county.)
