Ranging from the categories of Agriculture Mechanics, Swine, to Horticulture, the Future Farmers of America chapter on campus recently competed in the Collin County Jr. Livestock show. 

The first event in a series of competitions to follow this spring, FFA sponsor Brittney Avant believes students are receiving good practice for future competitions.

“A lot of these students are competing with the same project at the upcoming Fort Worth Stock Show, so seeing their results from this competition can give some insight on what to improve on or how to prepare this next time around,” Avant said. “It’s a good indicator for the amount of work they’ve been putting in and how that will potentially result in their places.”

Placing 7th in the Swine competition, junior Lila Elizondo believes the experience has taught her how to manage her time. 

“We get the pigs in October and we have biweekly practices where we walk the pigs and show them in a practice ring where our advisors can watch and give us critiques. This means divvying up time between school work along with other extracurricular activities,” she said. “Although it may be difficult, showing livestock is definitely worth it and a rewarding experience.”

3rd place winner junior Carsyn Bianchin thinks this first competition in the Swine category has taught her skills she can utilize beyond a farm setting. 

“The biggest challenge for me was not being nervous while getting into the show ring since it was my first show with my pig ever,” Bianchin said. “We had to continuously be practicing walking our pigs so that they are better confident while in front of the judges. It’s an intimidating process, but it has taught me to become more aware of my potential and be confident in myself.”