I participated in 4-H and later on FFA for many years, competing in livestock shows, national agriscience projects, state fair projects, and public speaking. Although each event benefited me in some way, public speaking was the one that has made the biggest impact on my life. Growing up, I was very shy and quiet. I would not speak unless spoken to and I would never dream of speaking in front of a crowd. That changed, however when I began speaking through 4-H. Even though my speeches were as simple as “How to Bake Cookies,” it helped form me into the confident and profound speaker I am today. As I entered FFA in high school, the speeches I wrote were much more complex, covering anything from the production of crops like cotton, to the benefits of buying organic products. Those speeches had to be a minimum of three pages, and it had to be fully memorized and performed perfectly. When preparing the speech, three printed and bound manuscripts were required; one for each judge. They must be typed in a certain font, with certain margins, and a cover letter. As I enter the room to give my speech, I pass one out to each judge, shake their hand firmly, ask their name, and smile brightly. I then back away, fold my hands politely in front of me and begin speaking, just like I had rehearsed a million times. There is a different type of speaking when involved in FFA, it is called your “speech voice.” The speech voice is loud, steady, slow and emphasized. This sounds easy but it actually takes a lot of practice to master, trust me. Today I still catch myself doing my “speech voice” when talking to anyone professionally. At the end of the three to four minute speech, I ask the judges if they have any questions. They can ask anything they chose, which means I have to not only memorize my speech, but also memorize every little fact and detail about my subject to ensure that I will be able to answer any questions that are given.
These speeches may seem silly to some, but because of my many years of experience, I know that I am prepared for any speaking event that may come my way. I enjoy talking to people; it does not bother me to make phone calls or talk in front of large audiences, and I know that I am one step ahead because I have had the practice that many have not yet received. Because of my FFA background, I know that I will be able to excel in the career path I choose.
These speeches may seem silly to some, but because of my many years of experience, I know that I am prepared for any speaking event that may come my way. I enjoy talking to people; it does not bother me to make phone calls or talk in front of large audiences, and I know that I am one step ahead because I have had the practice that many have not yet received. Because of my FFA background, I know that I will be able to excel in the career path I choose.
