Earning the American FFA Degree, the highest degree achievable in the National FFA Organization, is no easy feat. Members must participate in FFA at the local and state levels, obtain the State FFA Degree, complete at least 50 hours of community service, maintain good grades — and that’s just a sampling of what’s required. That may sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Read on for five tips for becoming the gold standard in FFA from William Gaspard, a former member of the Louisiana School for the Agricultural Sciences FFA who will receive his
American FFA Degree this year.
1. PURSUE YOUR PASSION.
Gaspard, who is currently working toward a degree in agricultural leadership, development and communications at Louisiana State University (LSU), encourages FFA members to funnel their passions into their supervised agricultural experiences (SAE) and community service endeavors.
“It’s much easier to stay motivated and keep pushing forward when you’re excited about what you’re doing,” Gaspard says.
2. DARE TO BE DIFFERENT.
If a typical SAE doesn’t interest you, Gaspard says to think outside the box and get creative.
“I’ve written articles and press releases, produced social media content, edited websites and created a blog focused on agricultural advocacy. Essentially, I have used my voice and skills to connect consumers with the ag industry,” says Gaspard, who completed SAEs in agricultural communications, served as a public relations intern for the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, and is now an Extension and communications intern for the LSU College of Agriculture.
3. STAY ORGANIZED
As you complete projects on your journey to earn the American FFA Degree, keep your records updated and in easy reach.
“When you’re applying for the American FFA Degree, you want to make sure you can show how you’ve grown and what you have achieved over the years,” Gaspard says. “You may forget some of what you’ve done, so it’s helpful to go to one spot and review your accomplishments.”
4. PRIORITIZE WHAT’S IMPORTANT
Gaspard suggests maximizing your time by eliminating unnecessary activities and keeping your goals at the forefront of your mind.
“I had to make sacrifices to earn the American FFA Degree,” Gaspard says. “I made the time to pursue it because I knew it would help me become a better person and get me closer to my long-term goals.”
5. PRESENT YOURSELF IN A POSITIVE LIGHT.
Be aware of your public persona, Gaspard says, and stay conscious of what you’re representing when posting on social media and spending time in your community.
“Have a clear understanding of your personal brand, and remember that your actions will determine how you are perceived,” Gaspard says.
Learn more about the American FFA Degree, including eligibility requirements and application information, at FFA.org/participate/awards/american-ffa-degree.
A special thanks to our American FFA Degree sponsors, CASE IH, Elanco and Syngenta.
