Middleburgh FFA students recently returned from the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, where they engaged with hands-on exhibits at the Expo Center, met representatives from colleges and industries, and discovered new aspects of the agriculture field. As part of the trip, students also toured businesses and visited iconic locations such as Lincoln Electric in Cleveland, Ohio, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
The trip offered real-world exposure that expands on classroom learning. Anastasia J., a junior, was surprised by how many people were at the convention – which led to opportunities for conversations that added to her knowledge of veterinary technology. She also took away some economic lessons.
“I learned how much money other states make from the things they produce,” she said.
Junior Logan R. said the trip helped them build stronger people skills, “I learned that it’s fun to step outside your comfort zone and meet new people.”
Kalynn L., also a junior, also learned the importance of making connections with many different types of people and was particularly inspired by keynote speaker A’ric Jackson. Along the way, she experienced the “wow factor.”
“Something memorable was going on the tour bus on the Indy 500 track,” she noted. “It was really cool to be on a racetrack that is so well known across the country.”
The students have taken multiple agriculture and science classes at MCS such as dairy science, veterinary science, and wildlife fisheries and ecology. They are active members of the FFA club, which has provided them with leadership opportunities as they learn.
“Being a part of FFA has helped me grow to be a strong leader,” said Logan. “It has also allowed me to find something I am truly passionate about.”
Kalynn noted, “Being part of FFA has shown me the importance of making a commitment because I have shown up to things and seen the opportunities we all lose when people don’t honor their commitment and show up.”
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