As I approach my last year in FFA, I've done a lot of thinking; Most in disbelief, because I feel like just yesterday I was a freshman going to my first banquet and thinking "Man, I can't wait so see what the future holds in this organization." And now, I'm preparing myself for my final year in FFA. It's completely bittersweet, and definitely a little crazy.

This organization has taken me places, both figuratively and literally. I've literally traveled across this country with FFA, but figuratively, I've been pushed outside of my comfort zone, and because of that, grown into someone my younger self would be proud of. I remember my first year of FFA, witnessing how many events there were, and noticing the upperclassmen who acted as though they had it all figured out. I told myself I wanted to be just like them, I wanted to own this organization, take every opportunity I could, and looking at it now, that's exactly who I've become. I hope that the underclassmen look at me the same way.

As I continue thinking of all I've accomplished in the few years I've been a member of the FFA, I also think of everything I have to look forward to. The last year that I'm a high school member of FFA, I know I'm going to tackle every competition, fundraiser, and event - and make the absolute best of it. I have faith that the learning experiences will be the best throughout my last year, and the fun I have along the way will be immeasurable. I also look forward to the future in the sense that I am fully aware the FFA has prepared me for life beyond high school.

So, as my last year in FFA flies by, as I'm sure it will, I'll be more prepared for the future than I could've ever imagined myself being. The lessons I've learned, the skills I've obtained, and the obstacles I've passed because of FFA will be so applicable to the real world. I have total belief that my dedication to FFA and all that I learned within the organization will be obvious as I make my way through life. Approaching my last year of FFA is a lot to wrap my head around, but I know that I'm incredibly excited for what is to come, and unfortunately, all good things must come to an end.

I know I'm going to cry when I hang up my FFA jacket for the last time. But, I hope as my jacket is hung up, a younger member slips theirs on for the first time and feels the same ambition, excitement, and certainly what I felt when I first put on my FFA jacket.