Exploring FFA: A Conversation with Harshini from Heritage High School

Harshini, a high school student, discusses her involvement in Future Farmers of America (FFA), an organization promoting agriculture education. She highlights various events, including leadership, public speaking, and animal-related competitions, and explains her interest in veterinary medicine and her experience raising and showing pigs. Harshini also shares her daily routine of caring for her pig, Arthur, including feeding and walking him, and discusses the process of raising market pigs for livestock shows.

FFA, a national organization, offers students opportunities in agriculture, including raising animals and learning about horticulture.  While some students may be uncomfortable with the commercial aspect of raising animals, FFA provides valuable skills and knowledge for future careers in agriculture.  The organization also promotes awareness about the importance of agriculture and the technology used in modern farming practices.

Harsini discusses her experience raising a pig for the FFA, highlighting the financial investment and emotional connection involved. She emphasizes the supportive community within FFA, where members help each other with tasks and chores. Harsini also shares some light-hearted moments, including her pig’s popularity and a friend’s pig learning to sit like a dog.

Students at Heritage High School, including Harshini, slept with pigs for warmth during a two-day event.  Despite the cold, Harshini enjoyed caring for the pigs and found the experience to be cute and memorable.