Image courtesy of Kansas FFA Association
Ah, the frenzy of FFA judging season! It’s a time when the tension is as thick as the dust on the boots of every aspiring agricultural aficionado.
While there are plenty of things to do to ensure success, we asked some advisors what not to do during this season. So, have a chuckle at the don’ts — particularly when it comes to what an FFA student should absolutely not do, according to their advisors during this critical time:
- Don’t hide advisors’ caffeine: Advisors are like majestic creatures fueled by caffeine, wandering the halls of the FFA chapter room in search of that sacred elixir. If you value your safety during judging season, do not, under any circumstances, tamper with their coffee (or Redbull) stash. Hiding it in the feed bin might seem funny, but you’ll soon find yourself dodging pitchforks in the hay barn.
- Don’t show up to practice unprepared: Contest practice sessions are valuable opportunities to hone skills, learn new techniques, and collaborate. Advisors and members dedicate their time and effort to making them happen, and success in these activities requires a certain level of confidence and preparedness. Trust us when we say that nobody has the time or patience for your lack of preparation, so do everyone a favor and show up ready to practice.
- Don’t give oral reasons during a contest without practicing: Nothing is more painful for an FFA member or the judge than listening to or giving a set of unprepared oral reasons. Take notes, write them down, and practice, practice, practice before you present.
- Don’t lose or damage your scantron: Losing or damaging your Scantron during an FFA contest is like forgetting to bring your tractor to a plowing competition — you’re just not going to get very far! Also, your FFA advisor’s random, angry vein and eye twitch may resurface paired with a long, sad sigh.
- Don’t mismark your scantron: Same category as above. But if you need a little more of a visual, imagine this scene: You’ve confidently filled out your scantron, proud as a peacock … yet you turn it in and realize you’ve marked the wrong bubbles. It’s a recipe for disaster and a good way to give away any possibility of a win. And let’s not forget the aftermath. When the results come in, and it’s revealed that your scantron misstep led the team astray, cue the awkward stares and sheepish apologies! It’s like explaining why the cows escaped the barn — there’s no good excuse!
- Don’t forget to eat before your contest: This one’s pretty self-explanatory, but nobody likes a hangry FFA member (not to mention a hangry FFA advisor). Don’t forget to eat!
- Don’t be late for the bus: The rest of your chapter is already loaded up and ready to go well ahead of time. So, set those alarms, pull on your boots (or pumps), and don’t be late for the bus!
- Don’t forget to take medications: Obviously, this is a topic to make sure you’ve lined up with your parents and your medical professionals, but FFA contest season is not the time to find yourself with itchy eyes and a runny nose.
- Don’t leave your trash on the bus: Your advisor loves you. But not as much as your mom. Pick up after yourselves, and don’t leave
- Don’t bring a bad attitude: Seriously, check it at the door. Everyone at the contest is doing the best that they can. If you’re going to bring any attitude, make it a winning attitude and one that works well with others.
- Don’t mess with your napping advisor on the bus: Everyone’s tired, but nobody’s as exhausted as your advisor during contest season. Save your pranks and annoyance for later and let them sleep.
Keep some of these tips in mind, and may your contest season be a successful one!