You decided to join your school’s FFA chapter. Now what? There are plenty of opportunities ahead to explore agricultural career paths, develop your leadership skills and start lifelong friendships.
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your FFA experience.
- Get involved early.
Say “yes” to as many activities as you can, especially at first. Colton Roy, Missouri FFA president from Trenton, Mo., says he spent his freshman year trying everything he could. Once he discovered he liked public speaking and leadership, he continued to pursue those opportunities.
- Step out of your comfort zone.
When you go to an FFA event beyond the local level, don’t be afraid to connect with students and advisors outside of your chapter, says Breanne Harmon, an active FFA alumni member and former FFA advisor in Salisbury, Mo. This advice helped her develop meaningful relationships that continued through college and into her professional life.
- Stay connected.
Harmon adds that your network will flourish only if you put in effort to continue relationships. Social media makes that simpler, she says. Social media is also a great way to find out about opportunities, such as camps, leadership academies, community service activities, scholarships and award programs. Follow your local chapter and your area, district and state associations, and the national organization.
- Talk to your advisor.
Meet with your advisors and share your interests, Harmon says. Don’t wait for them to approach you with an opportunity, Roy adds. Let them know if you are interested in an activity or ask what you can do to get involved.
- Start your supervised agricultural experience (SAE).
There is a career in agriculture to match most interests, says Brett Evans, SAE education specialist for the National FFA Organization. Start an SAE that will help you explore or prepare for that career. If you need funds to start or expand your SAE, consider applying for an SAE grant.
- Set your sights on the American FFA Degree.
If your goal is to earn the highest degree in the organization, start now by talking to your advisors. Be sure to choose an SAE that will help you qualify, Evans says.
- Embrace the opportunities to wear your FFA jacket.
Take pride in your official dress, Roy says. It may be hot and itchy at times, but the blue corduroy jacket is part of tradition dating to 1933 that has united millions of people in agriculture and FFA.
- Be yourself.
Don’t be afraid to try new things, but find what you enjoy and put your whole heart into it, Harmon says. Plaques and medals are not the only measure of success, she adds. Dedicate yourself to your goals, and you will succeed.
