4. From Corn Fields to Congress

"There are two things that make goose bumps go up and down my back: one is Old Glory flying over the nation's capitol when I walk by it at night, and the other is when I see FFA members in their blue jackets. I get an emotional feeling because FFA lifted me out of the depths of poverty and personal problems to the halls of Congress." -Wes Watkins, former U.S. congressman from Oklahoma and former president of the Oklahoma FFA Associaton

This is one of my favorite quotes that I often refer to. FFA members are also familiar with the saying “Blue jackets, bright futures.” I think I have made it clear in my previous posts that FFA has made a positive impact on my life and my future, it makes me happy to see how it has had the same effect on other former members. As I said before, the FFA Organization has so much more to offer than just “farm life.” The FFA Organization helped make a former congressman who he is today, the hard work these past, present, and future members put in truly pays off. If you give your all to this organization, it will return the favor for the rest of your life!

How does FFA benefit a congressman? Well, as I mentioned before there are many public speaking contests members are able to compete in throughout their FFA years. 

Speaking in front of a crowd ranging from three people to hundreds of people helps you step out of your comfort zone, it gives you stage presence, and offers constructive criticism to help better yourself in the future. Parliamentary Procedure is another contest event offered by the FFA Organization, I personally love this contest, it helps teach members how to effectively and professionally communicate ideas during a meeting. Another important and valuable contest is the Job Interview contest. Members compete and test their skills and abilities in the job interview process, they compete in over the phone, one-on-one, and panel job interviews. The learning experience, and countless opportunities to better yourself in any of these contests is probably the best part about them. The judges not only tell you what your strengths and weaknesses are but they offer tons of advice and tips to better yourself. As I discussed before, it’s not all plows, sows, and cows. From the corn field to the halls of congress, this program is designed to benefit everyone, no matter the path you take.