Participants in Career and Leadership Development Events (CDEs/LDEs) gain many benefits – developing critical-thinking and effective decision-making skills, fostering teamwork and achieving individual accolades.
Another important aspect of competing in CDEs and LDEs is recognizing the value of ethical competition. In this new world of virtual, hybrid and in-person events, it’s important to remember the FFA Code of Ethics.
“The code of ethics is important because it sets the ground rules for all FFA members,” says Morissa Meehan, National FFA CDE/LDE program manager. “All members have the expectation that when they abide by this code, their fellow members will too, which levels the playing field and ensures balance and peace within the organization. The FFA code unites students to avoid misunderstandings and conflict.”
To be as successful as possible at competition, keep the following tips in mind from Rebecca Carter, senior manager of awards and recognition programs for FFA.
- Be prepared. Know what you are expected to do and to know. Read your event rules and rubrics ahead of time so you’re familiar with what you will be evaluated on. Then you’ll be confident that your response addresses the judges’ concerns.
- Practice, practice, practice. While practicing, pretend you are doing the real thing. Remain within the time limits, and remove any notes, supports or distractions. Focus on your posture and seek feedback.
- Build up your teammates. It’s important to help your team members prepare so everyone is strong and confident. “You are only as strong as your weakest link,” Carter says.
- Don’t let one question hold you up. On written exams, mark it and come back to it once you’ve completed the rest of the exam, because the exams are timed. “Sitting on a question you don’t know can rattle and stress you out,” Carter says. “Instead, move on to answer the ones you do know, and you’ll feel more confident once you return.”
- Stay positive. Encourage other teammates. Positivity influences the attitudes of those around you.
- Get plenty of rest and nutrition before the event. This will help you manage anxiety and excitement as the event approaches. “People who are well-rested have better memory recall,” Carter says. “Being dehydrated or hungry may cause you to be sluggish and foggy.”
- Focus on the knowledge you’ve gained and how you’ve improved. It’s not always about what place you get but whether you’re moving closer to your long-term goals. “Many of these tips, when done consistently, provide a framework to success, not only in competitions, but also in personal endeavors and future opportunities,” says Carter.
Are you up for the challenge? Remember, your actions impact not only you, but also those around you. For updated information about the 2021 CDEs/LDEs, visit FFA.org.
“Your actions are a result of your values and talents and choosing to respond,” Carter says. “Only when they all line up does it make the greatest impact. Following the Code of Ethics is putting the best version of yourself forward.”
