The National FFA Organization is well known for its integral role in cultivating agricultural education and personal growth within its members. With more than 760,000 current members, the National FFA Organization is one of the largest youth organizations preparing their members for leadership and careers in the science, business, and technology of agriculture. However, many students may not know of the possibilities and opportunities that FFA can provide.
The blue corduroy jacket is nationally recognized, and there are abundant opportunities that await those who join an FFA chapter. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a student being a senior who enrolled for an agriculture class for the credit but doesn’t know if they should join the chapter. Whatever the case may be, here are 7 signs that you should join FFA.
1. You want to develop your leadership skills
One of the biggest skill takeaways from being an active member of the National FFA Organization is leadership. From the local level to the national, the FFA organization prepares students by helping them develop leadership skills that will shape how they make decisions the rest of their lives. By engaging students and their passions, there are many opportunities for students to hold a leadership position.
2. You are a dedicated, hard working individual
Before you make any life altering changes, you must first have the drive to be the best version of yourself. Many FFA members have hard work instilled in them from their parents and from how they were raised. They are dedicated individuals who want to do well in life and are following that passion.
3. You may not know what you want in life
FFA members range in age from 12 to 21. These are formative years and many may not realize what they want to do for the rest of their life, and that is completely fine. The National FFA Organization works with its members to find their passion. FFA classroom activities include math and science, as well as hands-on work experience and the development of life skills, helping members discover their career path and realize success.
4. You have an interest in agriculture
FFA originally stood for Future Farmers of America. FFA roots run deep in agriculture and everything that goes along with that — natural resources, row crops, agronomy, mechanics, and so much more. This organization celebrates the agriculture industry and future that it holds.
5. You don’t have an interest in agriculture
Despite the deep connection to agriculture, the National FFA Organization has expanded to be a more inclusive organization than ever before. The agriculture industry is more than just farmers and ranchers — it includes those interested in STEM, mathematics, education, communication, chemistry and many other diverse fields! The National FFA Organization can set you up to be successful, no matter where your passion leads you.
6. You believe that hands on activities are one of the best ways to learn
With over 11,000 FFA advisors and agriculture teachers, the National FFA Organization uses its resources to reach students on multiple levels, providing students with innovative and leading-edge education. The agricultural education program provides a practical approach to learning through three components: classroom education, hands-on supervised agricultural experiences and involvement in FFA.
7. You find comfort in helping others
Lastly, FFA is a service based organization. It is the last line of the FFA motto, “Living to Serve.” FFA members play a vital role in supporting their community through community service projects. Community service and service learning opportunities are such an important aspect of the National FFA Organization.
If these things apply to you, the next step is to set yourself up for success. First, in order to be in the National FFA Organization, students must be enrolled in an agriculture class. Check out what your school offers and find the one that fits your interest and talents the most! Don’t know where to start? Check out the FFA chapter locator to find your nearest chapter and begin the process of joining today!
Just like anything you do, FFA is what you make it. If you put in the work, it will benefit you in ways that will serve you the rest of your life. The National FFA Organization provides opportunities for scholarships, increases leadership opportunities, career advice and support, and hands-on experiences.
