FFA

When I was a freshman in high school, I decided to enroll in the vocational agriculture program. I had been taking home economics projects in 4-H and I lived on a diversified livestock operation. I felt I did not know enough about the land and livestock so I chose agriculture over home economics. I entered the classroom after lunch and there was only one other female in the classroom. The boys seemed to be staring at us as though we were in the wrong room.

Mr. Dale Carpentier was my first agriculture teacher. I remember learning the FFA Creed and placing in the top three on the night we had to recite it. The top three then continued to present the creed and answer questions. I was defeated by a classmate!

I decided not to quit there but continued membership each year. I especially enjoyed FFA meetings and I had to be enrolled in at least one semester of agriculture to serve as an officer. It was difficult sometimes to balance all the classes I was interested in because I also enjoyed math, science, and speech. English was required all four years.

I received my state FFA degree as a junior in high school. To obtain that degree I also had to keep accurate records. My record book is in my Bowman office. I decided to “try” to run for state FFA office. I had a good experience which enlightened me into what was required for a candidate.

My activities included judging, public speaking, quiz team, and serving as an officer. I also enjoyed being on the parliamentary procedure team.

As a senior, I participated in farm management judging, quiz team, and I ran for FFA Secretary. I had quite a winning year which was followed by a trip with the State FFA President and Executive Secretary to Washington, D.C. for State President’s Conference. In November we flew to Kansas City, Missouri, for the National FFA Convention where I served as a delegate and competed in farm management judging.

Our “western” leadership team had a wonderful experience traveling with Randy Hedge who was a national officer. We presented four district leadership events. I also enjoyed conducting chapter visits to my home district (eight). I even remember having a flat tire on the way to a banquet . . . . with success there is bound to be some humbling experiences or a feeling of defeat!

I did not receive my American FFA Degree . . . I still remember the circumstances around that decision but I became encouraged when my fellow state officer, Jack Keller, asked me whether I would like to participate in the International Exchange Program, Work Experience Abroad.

AND that 6 month experience changed my life!

Watch for the “Dakota Gal Series” for more of this story!