Agricultural education.

On a breezy Tuesday evening in Washington, DC, I was in the basement of St. Peter’s Catholic Church. In the few minutes before class started, the few of us at our table sat and exchanged pleasantries. With the revelation that I was a Texan spending the semester in DC, one of the ladies across from my starting asking about what my plans were. I delved in further and explain that I was a senior education major at Texas Tech University. The norm in this town was for people to assume I was going into government or history teaching, but I politely corrected her to say I was going to teach agriculture.


The confusion I saw on her face was similar to what I had begun to regularly see, but she asked more questions—what level I would teach and what I would teach.

For students pursuing a career in agricultural education across the nation, there is a stock answer. We always answer it plainly and simply, but that night was different. The passion I held so close to my heart decided it needed to shine. So I spoke truly, honestly and most likely fervently about the career I was choosing. I explained the widened scope of agriculture and the infinitely possibilities of what I would teach my students. I recognized a light in my voice, an excitement that I was afraid I had lost. The conversation wasn’t long, but it opened my eyes.

On the night of October 5, 2010, I was reminded of who I really am—in regards to the major I am pursing in college. I was blessed to be reunited with a passion that has been huddled away inside. I was shown that no matter how far I am away from my home or my chosen profession, I will always have a true and deep passion for agricultural education and the National FFA Organization.