“You have to witness the Sea of Blue!” one older FFA member
yelled at me trying to convince me to go to National FFA Convention when I was
in 10th grade. Confused by what they meant, I managed to wipe the
strange look off my face and replied with a long, “Sure…”. That next month I
did witness the Sea of Blue and all of it’s glory while walking down the
streets of Indianapolis, Indiana. I found myself often times looking around to see the name of the
state on the nearby jackets. I returned from the National FFA Convention that year
with a brand new perspective of the National FFA Organization and was energized from what I heard during the
sessions and what I saw from the Expo center. Since that first year, I have
made my way to National FFA Convention a few more times. So I have created 10
tips for you about National FFA Convention…
1. Go to the First General Session. I promise, you
won’t regret it! Imagine 60,000 members and guests gather in one building. The
energy level is crazy!
2. Do the signature page challenge at the back of
the Convention Handbooks. It’s a great way to meet new friends and members from
all over the nation!
3. Get some sleep. Wither it’s in the bus/car
beforehand or while convention is going on, sleep is very important. Convention
is constant ‘high energy’ and you’ll want to not be tired for the experiences
of a lifetime!
4. Have a buddy! Everything is always better when
you experience it with someone else. Plus, you won’t get lost!
5. Communication! It’s important that you stay
connected with your advisor or whoever is liable for you. Have a game play with
your advisor and try to keep your phone charged!
6. Expo! Take advantage of the National FFA Expo.
You’ll get the chance to network and explore opportunities with over 450
industry-leading exhibitors. Bring a drawstring bag/backpack to collect all the
awesome stuff they give away!
7. Stay alert! The sessions are a great time to be
inspired by the National FFA Officers or Session Speakers! Take notes and get
ready to take action.
8. Got Social Media? Post about your adventures of
the day to keep those at home informed. Does your FFA chapter have Facebook or
Twitter? Great! Post on the chapter page as well. It’s great to get updates
from the National FFA Convention and Expo!
9. Branch out. National FFA Convention is a great time
to know others wither they’re from your home state or not. Some of the best
friendships are FFA friendships.
10. Have
fun! It’s all around you. Not only are there multiple concerts and dances, but
you’re with the future leaders of agriculture and people with the same PASSION
as you! Celebrate!
How you use your time at National FFA Convention & Expo
is up to you. Be sure to bring ideas back to your chapter and get ready to make
a difference and GO ALL OUT!
Grow Always, Serve Endlessly,
Erin Larson
MN FFA State Reporter
Grow Always, Serve Endlessly,
Erin Larson
MN FFA State Reporter
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