Student Teaching: No Better Experience

As a senior in high school, I had no idea where I would be just 3 years later. All I knew was that I was headed to Northeastern Junior College to study agricultural education. As I finish my last semester of college at CSU in just a few short weeks, I am humbled by the student teaching experience I have had for the last 3 months. In high school, being a part of FFA was the highlight of my 4 years. I knew that my future career would be ag-based, and ag education was the path I took. From the moment I walked into the St. Vrain Valley ag program, I felt at home. The students have been wonderful, and my cooperating teacher has become one of my best friends. Last week (Oct. 24th-28th), I had the opportunity to attend the 90th National FFA Convention and Expo as a chaperone for 9 current students and 4 graduates competing in the Floriculture contest. Those four days—no matter how long, cold, and exhausting—were nothing short of great. Seeing MY students excited and passionate about agriculture and being at convention helped me realize that this is the perfect career choice for me. The theme “I can. We will.” stuck with them, and I know they will remember it as they continue their journey through high school or as they head into/through college. In August 2018, students will be walking into class to see my face—a new face, and I can’t wait to educate and inspire them just as I have here at St. Vrain.