One of the many clubs at Pasco High School is FFA. While many people may have heard of it, they might not know exactly what FFA is, so I wanted to provide a brief overview.
FFA originally stood for Future Farmers of America and was founded in 1928. Since then, it has evolved to include members from the fields of chemistry, teaching, entrepreneurship, and farming. FFA promotes career success through agricultural education, offering hands-on activities and opportunities for personal growth in leadership. To learn more about FFA at Pasco High School, I spoke with Ms. Lambert and Mrs. Smith, who are both involved in the organization.
**What is FFA?**
**Ms. Lambert:** FFA is a student leadership organization focused on agriculture. However, our students do more than just farming; we have members involved in areas such as plants, animals, research, and the food industry. It’s a diverse organization, and we strive to celebrate everyone’s contributions to agriculture.
**How long have you been involved in FFA?**
**Ms. Lambert:** I became involved in FFA during my sophomore year of high school. I maintained my membership to earn my American Degree and volunteered throughout college. Since then, I have served as an advisor.
**Mrs. Smith:** Before I got this job, I volunteered for our school district on the agricultural advisory committee, helping with FFA events since about 2018. I have been heavily involved since I was hired in 2021.
**What can you do in FFA?**
**Ms. Lambert:** Students can compete in contests, earn awards for agricultural projects, engage in community service, participate in social events, and attend leadership events. They also have the opportunity to travel and take industry tours.
**Mrs. Smith:** There are many competitions and opportunities for community building. For instance, we participate in the DECA Trunk or Treat, which is great for students and their families, including their younger siblings. We also have an annual banquet that highlights the year’s events and the achievements of our members. Activities include apple and potato judging, among other events. Not everything is directly related to agriculture.
**What is your favorite thing about FFA?**
**Ms. Lambert:** I appreciate the diversity within the organization. Everyone has the opportunity to pursue their interests, and I can find a role for anyone in the program—it depends on their willingness to engage.
**Mrs. Smith:** I love that students can choose what they want to compete in. It’s student-led, allowing them to make many decisions for the chapter, which is our club. They vote on which competitions to participate in, and if they express interest in certain events, we work to make it happen.
When considering extracurricular activities, think about FFA and the amazing opportunities it offers. Students can gain valuable experience both within and outside of agriculture through competitions and activities.
