Hi! My name is Amy Suarez, and I am Broward 4-H’s newest intern. I will be coordinating the Health Rocks!® program at two middle school sites this summer. I am a Health Education & Behavior major on a pre-occupational therapy track. In May of 2026, I will graduate from the University of Florida with both a bachelor’s and master’s in health education. Although this normally takes five years, I will be completing this in four.
The reason I decided to pursue a combined degree was to ensure that I was getting as much education as possible, ensure that I stand out in my OT applications, and so I did not have to graduate early. I am applying to the doctorate of OT and there are not that many programs. By doing this combined degree, I am hoping to make myself stand out and hopefully be selected for my top programs. In the future, I am hoping to be a pediatric occupational therapist, as I have always loved working with kids, but I am also open to exploring other specializations of OT. My passion for working with kids will allow me to connect with the 4-H students, as well as feel passionate about the work I am doing. I believe in kids having positive influences and I am excited to be one for the 4-H students. I have also worked with people with disabilities over numerous projects, clubs, and classes, which will allow me to connect and understand the needs of all of my students.
I grew up in Broward County and I absolutely adore it here. I love being close to the beach, as well as having access to so many beautiful parks. The balance of nature and city life is something that I really value. I am close with my mother and father, as well as my younger sister, Mia, who is 17 years old. I am also very close with my extended family, with my aunt, uncle, and cousins being my second set of parents and two extra sisters. Growing up, our two families traveled all across the west coast of Florida constantly and did Thursday night dinners every week. I have two dogs, Brookie (1.5) and Nicki (9.5) who are my world. I would do anything to bring my babies back to school with me, but my mom would not be too happy about that.
I have always enjoyed reading but took a little hiatus back in high school. I am now back to reading constantly and it brings me so much joy. My current reading obsession is the Boys of Tommen series, and my favorite book growing up was Wonder. I mainly watch sitcoms over anything else, with New Girl being my favorite, but I do think objectively the best sitcom is Modern Family. Besides reading, I love trying new cafes (but not paying $8 for a latte), driving around with the windows down, going to the pool and beach, and hanging out with my friends. Growing up, I did a lot of volunteer work with people with disabilities and have continued that now working with Special Olympics during the school year. In the fall, I am starting a new job at UF recsports as an operations associate, where I am hoping to get more into working out. This job will not only allow me to connect and learn about all aspects of health, but I will also be strengthening my customer service skills and ensuring the safety of the patrons of the gym. Currently, I love the total body, hip hop fitness, and yogalates classes that UF offers.
During my internship, I hope to be able to bring back the things I learned to use in my future. I want to learn the best way to figure out the needs of a community, the best way to teach all different types of students, and all about the process of 4-H. Before this internship, I had not heard of 4-H but I absolutely adore the vision of the program. By understanding its process, I will be able to jump right in and help as much as I can. Growing up working with kids and having a younger sister, I know the importance of a positive development and I am excited to assist with this for as many kids as I can. To me, being successful as an adult means leaving an impact, rather than if I am at the top of my career or making the most money. I know that the lessons I learn at 4-H will allow me to provide education to my future patients and be as supportive as possible. I am so thankful to 4-H and Broward 4-H for giving me the opportunity to make an impact and learn as much as possible before going into the workforce.
Written by: Amy Suarez
Amy joins the team to support the 4-H Health Rocks!® program, a grant via National 4-H Council.
ABOUT HEALTH ROCKS! ®
Health Rocks! applies 4‑H’s successful Positive Youth Development model with life skill development and decision-making philosophy to the challenge of reducing tobacco, alcohol, e-cigarette/vaping and drug use. Through the power of youth/adult partnerships, Health Rocks! instills in youth participants invaluable confidence and communication skills necessary to make responsible decisions and develop the internal strength to resist risky behaviors.
ABOUT FLORIDA 4-H
4-H is the youth development program of the land-grant university system and Cooperative Extension System. The program provides hands-on educational programs and experiences for youth ages 5 to 18 with the objective of developing youth as individuals, and as responsible and productive citizens. In Florida, 4-H is administered by University of Florida/IFAS Extension and Florida A&M University.
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