Chase Sherburne, the State FFA President of New Jersey, recently captivated students in the Environmental Academy at High Tech High School with his presentation, offering a glimpse into his journey in agriculture and the enriching experiences provided by the FFA program. As he shared insights into the various conventions FFA has to offer, Sherburne left a lasting impact on the students, inspiring them to explore the world of agriculture.
For those unfamiliar with FFA, it is a career and technical education organization that exposes students to interdisciplinary career options within agriculture. Contrary to common perceptions, FFA goes beyond traditional farming, encompassing education, medicine, animal work, business management, and science. The organization serves as a gateway for students to explore various career paths related to agriculture, fostering a holistic understanding of the industry.
Chase Sherburne's presentation focused on showcasing the FFA program's myriad opportunities to its members. He walked the students through his own FFA journey, emphasizing the skills, knowledge, and values he gained along the way.
'One of the most memorable aspects of his presentation was his description of the progression in ranks as an officer from a district to a national level.' - Lara Vicente, an Environmental Science Major at HTHS
Following his presentation, the High Tech's FFA chapter officers gave Chase Sherburne a campus tour, showcasing the school's innovative agricultural projects. The tour included highlights such as the compost rocket, the hydroponics lab, and the beehive. Sherburne learned about the varieties being grown in the hydroponic farm, offering a firsthand look at the cutting-edge methods employed in modern agriculture. The bee hives demonstrated High Tech's commitment to environmental sustainability, while the outdoor garden and composting machine showcased their dedication to hands-on learning and eco-friendly practices.
Chase Sherburne's visit to the Environmental Academy inspired students to pursue their FFA journeys and shed light on the diverse opportunities available within agriculture. From leadership experiences to hands-on projects, FFA continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of students interested in agriculture. High Tech's commitment to innovative and sustainable agricultural practices further exemplifies the potential for growth and exploration in this dynamic field, leaving a lasting impression on students.
By: Alexandra Panfilov
