By Madison Mills, FFA Alumni and Student at Cal Poly, SLO
Heading off to college this fall? You're in for an exciting adventure, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. Here are five tips from a current college student and past FFA member to help FFA alumni make the most of their first few years at a college or trade school.
1. Use the past to build the future.
High school and FFA prepared us for life in ways we might not have realized at the time. Remember all those early mornings waking up for competitions and late nights working your animals? Well, those experiences have shaped us, and college brings a new set of challenges and opportunities.
Believe it or not, I used to despise public speaking before FFA. I even dreaded reading aloud in class. However, those public speaking competitions, which I initially approached with trepidation, turned out to be invaluable preparation for college life. In one of my college classes, I had to write a resume and interview for a job, just like the Job Interview Leadership Development Event. To my surprise, the skills I had honed in FFA not only came in handy but also gave me the confidence to approach my fellow classmates and build connections.
2. Take FFA connections to the next level.
Within the FFA community, you've had the chance to meet incredible people who can be your mentors and friends. Seriously, don't underestimate the power of the people you've met along the way. Reach out, plan a lunch date, or simply spend time with the folks you've crossed paths with through FFA. These connections could open doors to job opportunities, valuable advice, or even lifelong friendships.
To give you an example, one of my good friends in college is someone I first met as an FFA member while attending Sacramento Leadership Experience. Today, I'm working as an assistant to the Regional Supervisor for the South Coast Region. FFA can be a powerful tool to help you navigate this exciting new journey you're embarking upon!
3. Embrace activity and engagement.
Miss the excitement of FFA events? I certainly did. Why not consider volunteering at local FFA functions? It's an incredible way to maintain your connection while giving back to the organization that has played such a significant role in shaping you. Plus, you become an inspiring figure for current FFA members, demonstrating what's achievable beyond high school.
I have found a lot of satisfaction from helping out with various events at my former FFA chapter and seeing FFA from a fresh perspective. During college, I realized that I thrive when I'm busy, much like my time in FFA. Fortunately, my college offered hundreds of diverse clubs, which became my new avenue for staying active and engaged. It not only helped me stay connected but also allowed me to interact with fellow students on a whole new level. Consider joining or getting involved in groups that genuinely pique your interest—you won't regret it!
4. Recognize change as the catalyst for growth.
Change can be intimidating, but it's where personal growth happens. Sure, it can be scary— I felt it when I transitioned from the familiarity of FFA to the entirely new world of college life. New faces, fresh experiences, it can all seem intimidating.
But here's the thing I've learned; stepping out of your comfort zone is where you'll discover the things you might genuinely love. I would not be the same person I am today if I had embarked on new opportunities and experiences. Recognize change as an opportunity to evolve into the best version of yourself!
5. Find your balance.
Okay, let's talk about balance. This phase of life is all about new experiences and excitement, but you should not let them distract you from your goals. This is one thing I struggled with when I first went to college. Living independently for the first time, with all the freedom in the world, I occasionally veered off course from my goals. It's a common experience.
Understanding and staying true to my priorities helped me tremendously with time management and consistently making sound decisions. At the core of my priorities was my commitment to learning and earning my degree. While it’s essential to have fun and enjoy new experiences, it’s equally important to not let them obstruct the path to achieving your goals.
These next few years after high school are going to be exciting, new, and maybe even a little scary. This is precisely why you should draw upon your FFA experiences to guide you through this significant transition. FFA is an incredible program with lasting benefits that go beyond your high school membership. Use the skills, experiences, and connections you made in FFA to your advantage. Why not? You never know what remarkable opportunities may arise from doing so.
Madison Mills is a fourth-year Agricultural Communications student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. She is from El Centro, CA. She works as an Undergraduate Assistant in the Agricultural Education and Communications Department. Madison is the president of the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow Club and is planning to pursue a law degree.
