Embedded Files
November
In November, I was in Indianapolis for the National FFA Convention. I met the Louisiana FFA Vice President, Jacob Craft, while playing cards in the lobby of our hotel. Jacob came and played cards with us every night. He was an amazing person, and it was awesome to meet him. On our last night, I decided to ask to take his portrait and ask him a few questions about his journey in the FFA.
The National FFA Convention
Every year at the end of October, more than 50,000 FFA members, families, alumni, and educators gather in Indianapolis, Indiana, for the National FFA Convention. Since 2006, Indianapolis has served as the host city, welcoming members from across the country to compete, debate, and be recognized for their achievements.
Students attend the convention for many reasons. Some earn the opportunity by winning competitions at the state level, while others travel to Indianapolis to receive their American FFA Degree. Many students also attend simply for the experience, taking part in the wide range of activities offered throughout the week. The convention features a large FFA shopping center, a career and college expo, and opportunities to explore future paths in agriculture. Attendees can also enjoy special events such as the annual rodeo and concert, making the National FFA Convention both an educational and memorable experience.
At this year’s convention, it was announced that Indianapolis will continue to host the National FFA Convention through 2040.
Unwritten
"If my life had a soundtrack now, it would definitely be playing Unwritten because that is my hype song and I love to have a good time all the time, or A Million Dreams because being here at National Convention makes me realize and appreciate all the dreams come true and the opportunities I have given myself."
I Believe
"One lesson that FFA has taught me is that no matter your background, age, or skin color, your dreams can come true too. This was shown through my sucess in FFA as I did not grow up with a traditional agriculture background. I was convinced I would never be able to achieve the dreams I had because of the background I came from, but with passion, determination and a little help from the FFA I was able to make my dreams become reality, and I will forever be grateful."
FFA Members walking to the convention center
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
More from the interview.
Q: Who have you met at nationals that really inspired you?
A: "The most inspiring person I have met this week was 100% Jazmin Palma. Technically, I met Jazzy a few months ago at the State Officer Summit, but this week I had the chance to really get to know her. Not only did I learn she could speak spanish, as she did it in front of 70,000 people, but we also talked a lot about running for national office one day, I was telling her impressive I found her and that I dreamed to be as talented as her one day, and she was immediately surprised and told me that she could totally see me serving as a national officer, but those words are not the reason I find her inspiring, her contagious smile, and bubbly energy no matter what she is going through always make others feel loved and appreciated. This is a trait I wish were instilled in everyone and one I push myself to have every single day."
Q: What's a piece of advice you live by?
A: "My favorite piece of advice has always been 'if it’s meant to be, it’ll be.' Anytime you ask me for a piece, this is probably the exact phrase I will say. It not only reminds us that we cannot stress over things that we may no longer have control of, but also that we must trust in the plan the Lord, Jesus Christ, has for us."
Q: What's been the most meaningful moment during your time as a Louisiana state officer so far?
A: "The most meaningful moment so far serving as a state officer was definitely my final leadership camp. Every year I have had the pleasure of attending leadership camp, my favorite camp of the year by far, and on the final night, the state officers huddle in a circle and listen to their team song, something I had always dreamed of doing. This year, my final year of attending leadership camp, I was finally able to be a part of the huddle. Screaming “Story of My Life” with tears streaming down my face, knowing my dream had finally come true."
Reflection: I wish I was able to do more with these pieces. I kind of threw everything together because I needed something, but did not know what the something was.
Thank you, Jacob!
Google Sites
Report abuse