The First of Many Lasts and The Begining to a New Chapter

    Today was my last first day of school and also my eighteenth birthday! Being a senior in high school doesn't seem real right now, I can remember being my younger brother and going to high school as a freshman.

     I remember my Ag One class freshmen year. Overall the class was dreadful, a majority of the class took the course to fill up their schedule and didn't bother to be involved. At first I was not very interested in FFA. I thought; sure I will join, gives me something to do besides sports. So I decided to be in the Fall Public Speaking contest.
     Not having a single idea about how to write a speech my FFA advisor helped me prepare for contest. My speech was about Missouri Cooperatives, and I did learn quite a bit about cooperatives and how they work after that. I studied my speech, thinking that I would not be able to say the first sentence before seizing up with fear.
    The night of the speech came, there were two other FFA members in my speech division. It came time for me to wait outside of the room where I would present my speech. I was walking up and down the hallway, glancing at the green lockers, just trying to remember to introduce myself correctly. Then I went into the room and gave my speech. Even though there where only three people in the room besides myself, I flew through through my note cards, trying to remember to slow down and make eye contact with the judges.
    After I gave my speech I waited for the results. I had placed second, giving me another chance at the District contest at UCM. I was surprised that I had made it to the next round.
    Even though I did not make it to State I was not disappointed. That little speech had ignited a spark that would lead to my passion for FFA and agriculture. After that night I was excited to go to my agriculture class and learn something new. I was excited to get involved in FFA. That speech lead to chapter offices, an area office, and earning my State Degree as a junior.
   Many of those memories have flashed through my mind today as I realize this year will be the last year for me in high school. I will not be able to have another year of ag classes, or be apart of the chapter officer team. I will part of the Cass Career Center FFA Alumni and go advance my education at college.
    I am excited to get a major in Agribusiness and to be on my own. At the same time I am nervous, not really knowing what is ahead. I do know one thing; I would not be the same person today if I did not participate in that first speech contest.