Growing Together

This past year, I have had the opportunity to travel out of Indiana with the National FFA two times. One for the Next Gen: Agricultural Communications Conference in March which was held in Dallas, Texas. Second time, in June for the Washington Leadership Conference held in D.C..

Each one of these conferences allowed me, not only the opportunity for leadership and educational growth, but also building connections with members.

For the Next Gen: Agricultural Communications Conference, there was an application process. When one of my past FFA advisors sent me the link and encouraged me to apply I immediately became interested. Although this was the case, only 75 individuals would be selected to attend this conference. Even though I had expressed my interest in this conference and my passion for the agriculture communications career field, I was nervous I wouldn’t be selected. About a month later, I would receive an email that relieved this concern. I would learn that I would be selected for this conference. I was so excited to have this opportunity and immediately started a countdown of the days until I would hop on the flight to Dallas!

In Dallas, I would have the opportunity to learn so much about the opportunities within agriculture communications, and network with industry professionals. I was also able to connect and grow a deeper connection with your current District IV Reporter, Sophia Shannon. During this time, we were able to share so many laughs and get to know each other better, far before we knew we would have the opportunity to serve District IV together this year. Additionally, I had the privilege of building closer connections with District V Reporter, Ellie Taylor, and FFA Alumna, Emily Recker. These amazing individuals became not just colleagues but friends, as we learned and grew together throughout the conference. Together, we were able to talk about the conference experience and learn from each other in addition to the sessions. The attendees of this conference ranged from 10th to 12th grade. I was able to learn from some soon-to-be high school graduates, and learn about their future career plans and how their journey in the blue jacket has helped them in these endeavors.

Similarly, my experience at the National FFA Washington Leadership Conference, which I attended in June of this year, allowed me to be surrounded by inspiring leaders and peers from across the nation. When I first hopped on the bus, I decided to sit with one of my now-close friends, Emma Ruf. Prior to this, we had only talked a few times, but that bus ride turned into an unforgettable journey of laughter and shared stories. Our bond deepened, and I now consider Emma one of my closest friends, grateful for that spontaneous decision. Throughout WLC, you could often find Emma and I exploring the nation’s capital together and sharing countless memories together. From this close connection, we have also been able to provide each other with advice and help each other along difficulties we have experienced. Along the way, I was able to meet other outstanding individuals like Kendall from Oregon, Kaleb from Colorado, and my amazing roommates, Hadley, Samantha, and Lexi. Each of them had unique stories that added so much depth to my experience.

Reflecting on these experiences, I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity I've had through FFA. I have been able to build so many skills that will help me in the future, while also making connections that I'm forever grateful for. One of the most impactful lessons I’ve learned from these experiences is the power of connection. Every conversation, every laugh shared, and every moment spent with fellow FFA members has enriched my life. As I look forward to more adventures, I cannot wait to continue building these connections and growing together.

Until our next adventure,

Lauren Argotte

District IV President