Pigs, cows and chickens. These are the things most people think of when hearing FFA, but FFA is not only showing animals. Future Farmers of America is an organization that prepares young teenagers for life by teaching leadership skills for careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture.
On November 22, the FFA team competed at the Blacklands District LDE. FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing the potential for world-class leadership, personal growth, and professional success through agricultural education. To accomplish its mission, FFA develops capable and proactive agricultural leaders.
“Our favorite part about these contests is showing off our member’s hard work and dedication to improving their leadership skills,” FFA sponsor Tanis Price said. “Willis had four teams compete at LDE, and three advanced to the area contest”
When getting ready for these competitions, students have to go through a preparation stage.
“To prepare myself, I review my resume and ask myself any question I think a judge would ask so I can prepare an answer,” junior Paris Egbert said. “These competitions prepare myself and others to succeed with future career plans and give me the best opportunity to be ready when I apply for jobs after college.”
FFA is one community. Communities are the familiar threads that bring people together to help support and assist each other. Being in programs like FFA is having a sense of belonging, and this sense of belonging connects members to the many relationships they build.
“My favorite part about FFA contests is being able to travel with the ones I love the most,” senior Hannah East said. “Being with my fellow officers and the best ag teachers in the world brings me so much joy despite the stress the quiz gets. Having friends there is also helpful when you need a pick me up as they can motivate you and help you with studying.”
All in all, there are many benefits when being a part of the National FFA Organization. Students can make friends and mentors, practice essential skills, learn how to become industry leaders, win competitions, and ultimately become the best version of themselves possible.
“Since I am a senior, I unfortunately do not have any more competitions other than the Montgomery County Fair,” East said. “The main point I want to get across is that although competition season can be stressful, my friends and AG teachers always make it worthwhile.”
