The impact of FFA

I can say with confidence that no organization has impacted me as much as FFA has. From the very first day I stepped foot into the ag building, I could sense a change coming. When I originally joined FFA, I had envisioned a bunch of farm kids who just did farm things. Although, I was quickly proven wrong.

 

In fact, my biggest impact didn’t even come from farming. My biggest impact started in a classroom with three judges and a handful of note cards. Somehow, I had found myself participating in a public speaking contest. This seemed abnormal to me, considering I was always shy. However, with the urge of my advisors, I ended up winning that speaking contest, which lit the flame to a passion that still burns today. That contest opened the door and allowed me to find my passion for public speaking.

 

Since then, I’ve become quite the opposite of what I was when I was younger. Rather than being shy and not talking to anyone, you can often find me doing the talking, even to strangers. I’ve developed a love for speaking, whether it be professionally or just conversational. I’ve been able to come out of this shell I felt bound to, and opened myself up to everybody and everything around me.

 

The very first line in our FFA Creed states, “I believe in the future of agriculture.” It is because of the impact FFA has had within my life, that I can proudly express my belief in the future. If FFA can have this huge of an impact on my life, I know for a fact it can truly change the lives of other members.

 

When students graduate, they’ll be able to enter the real world possessing critical thinking skills. Some of the best leaders found their roots in FFA. This organization provides the best training, whether it be through other people, or just living through the experience. Because of FFA, they can begin their new journey possessing social skills. Whether it be public speaking, conducting meetings, or just shaking somebody's hand properly, FFA provides all of these, which are everyday things that prove themselves to be critical in life.

 

Because of FFA, and its impact on me, I believe in the future.