A Memory I Will Cherish for a Lifetime

The National Future Farmers of America Convention Trip

The National Future Farmers of America trip, which was coordinated by Jim Orr, has been an experience that has made me feel more a part of my community than ever, proud to be a member of such an organization that has helped me grow and learn, and has left an everlasting impression on me. Never would I have imagined that by attending an event where 70,000 members of the organization across the nation would meet, not only would I be able to participate in the traditions of the Future Farmers of America association, but I would have the opportunity to visit a number of places that would be utmost empowering and transformative to my perspective. 

 On October 25, Future Farmers of America (FFA)  members from both Los Banos High School and Pacheco High School had set out to fly to Indianapolis where the National Convention would be held. Upon entering the convention center, I was overwhelmed by the sea of blue jackets that had seemingly taken over Indiana. Sessions at the convention center included being able to see and hear the speeches of our national officers, listening to motivational speakers, and attending workshops tailored to helping members gain direction about their personal and career goals. 

In between the sessions at the convention center, Orr had organized for us to visit different tourist attractions and marvels of our country. One notable place we visited in Indiana was the Exotic Feline Rescue center where students were able to see big cats such as lions, tigers, and cougars from all over the world. Another being the world's greatest and most iconic racetrack at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway where we got to see various exhibits depicting the history of racing and how it came to life before us. We even got to go to a concert featuring the talented Lauren Alaina and Jimmie Allen who were able to excite and bring together students from all over the country to sing their hearts out from the top of their lungs.

From Indiana, we had flown to Washington DC where we were able to visit numerous monuments, the White House, the Archives, the Capitol, Supreme Court, Congress, the Pentagon, Arlington Cemetery, Smithsonian and Natural History museums, and the Holocaust museum. Not just enabling me to understand more about my country, but igniting inspiration as we walked past breathtaking architecture that paralleled the forestry nature of the states. Even as winter creeped upon us, the fall leaves shed like snow: bright colors of red, orange, and yellow carpeting the sidewalks – all capturing a timeless scene that I wished I could bring back as a souvenir. Overall touching my heart in more ways than one as those who went on the trip became closer than ever, were uplifted by the experiences we shared together, and were left in awe of  the beauty and strength our country possesses. 

Though short lived, this trip left an ever-growing influence on our hearts and our minds; only leaving us struggling to say goodbye. All which could not have been done without the support of Jim Orr, our FFA advisors, chaperones, and community members.