In a world driven by technology, many teenagers never really experience the outside world. We are reminded all the time to go outside; you probably hear it from your parents all the time to get off your phone or video games. At the School of Champions, Chander High School students can participate in FFA (Future Farmers of America), a club that truly introduces you to what is out there beyond the classroom. We interviewed FFA officers Tamaiah Briggs and Ashley Grace about their involvement in Chandler’s FFA program, including things like raising livestock and agriculture they’ve grown.
Tamaiah Briggs, junior, was inspired to join FFA after FFA students visited her junior high school in eighth grade. She chose FFA over any other club because it really grabbed her attention and was completely different from all the other clubs she was introduced to. Tamaiah has been in FFA for three years and really likes the community that she has gained from joining and sticking with the club. Although she didn’t have any previous experience in agriculture, she described herself as “grateful to be part of it.” She said FFA takes a lot of commitment, both to the specific role you start with and in total time. Tamaiah eventually wants to work in law, making this class helpful for improving her skills in public speaking, studying, and resilience.
Ashley Grace, junior, also joined FFA three years ago after she had the opportunity to hold her first chicken at a CHS Curriculum Night. FFA appealed to her because she was inspired by the idea of learning about and raising animals. While she also came to FFA without any previous agriculture experience, Ashley believes that “anyone can join and have a great time in FFA,” and she likes that you don’t have to know anything at all about agriculture to join. Ashley also said FFA requires a lot of commitment and hard work to become successful. She plans to become a veterinarian one day, so this class for her is really helpful toward that goal.
If you are interested in the fascinating work FFA does at Chandler, follow them on Instagram @_chandlerffa_ or www.chandlerffa.com
