FFA

FFA is an agriculture-based student organization that focuses on preparing students for their future careers in the agriculture industry. FFA changed their name to stand for the National FFA Organization in 1988 as opposed to their previous name “Future Farmers of America” as their membership became more diverse. Most members now didn’t grow up on farms, nor do they plan on becoming farmers, but they have a passion for agriculture and leadership in some form. 

FFA has many opportunities that most aren’t aware of. Every year, the organization hosts multiple leadership conferences in each state. These conferences aren’t directed toward agriculture; it’s strictly learning new leadership skills while making friends with people all over the state. Learning Development Events (LDEs) are held each year; LDEs are public speaking events that members can compete in, such as Prepared Public Speaking, Employment Skills (job interview), and Extemporaneous Public Speaking. You can advance on in these events from Districts, Sectionals, State, and even to Nationals. They also hold Career Development Events each year. Students compete in different agriculture career contests such as Farm Business Management, Veterinary Science, Ag Mechanics, etc. with a written and skills test. 

My experiences in FFA are some of my favorite memories. I raised and showed swine and dairy heifers at local and county fairs, attended numerous leadership conferences, went on week-long trips to four states and Washington D.C. for conferences and conventions, competed in public speaking competitions and career development events, and networked with people from all over the United States, while making lifelong friends along the way. 

So many people feel that FFA is strictly for farmers, but I would encourage any middle or high school student to get involved and see all of the opportunities it has to offer.