My Biggest Takeaway

This past weekend, I went home and milked cows at the dairy farm I used to work at in

high school. I loved working there, not just because I genuinely enjoyed my job but because of

the family that owned the farm. They were excited to see me when I showed up to work, and

they ask me what the biggest takeaway from state office has been so far. I took a few seconds to

think on how I wanted to word my answer, but I already knew exactly what I wanted to say.

Let’s rewind back to state fair. I knew exactly why I ran for state office. I wanted to

connect with members that felt like they didn’t belong in agriculture. State fair was the perfect

opportunity to do this. I met so many members that had different backgrounds and experiences. I

loved talking to members that a background in agriculture, but the members who did not really

touched my heart. I heard their stories of joining FFA without any knowledge of agriculture, but

now their lives are encompassed by it. I talked to members who had joined FFA chapters that

had just recently started and discussed what they were actively doing to build up FFA in their

own school. I thoroughly believe this is what FFA is all about. I was overjoyed to see all the

work that is being done by members to advocate for FFA and agriculture.

When it came time it came time for Premier Leadership Training, there were hardly any

members that I hadn’t met before. I was so excited to see all of the district officers and section

directors that I was able to build connections with during state fair. This has been my biggest

takeaway from state office. Connection. Meaningful connections with members from across the

state. At PLT, the state officers were able to share a few reflective thoughts with the district

officers. I feel what I said reflects my biggest takeaway. I am not big into romance, but I have

fallen in love with this organization and the members. These connections help me remember why

I ran for state office on the hard days and make the meaningful moments so much more

memorable. I am so appreciative of meeting and building relationships with members that have

the same passion for agriculture that I do, and I am looking forward to meeting so many more.

Living to Serve,

Jaden Maze