Senior Alyssa Farley has built her high school career around two constants: competing hard on the field and serving others through agricultural leadership. “My involvement in agriculture began at a young age through 4-H, where I started showing animals as soon as I was eligible,” Farley said. “When I reached sixth grade, I had the opportunity to join FFA, which felt like a natural next step. My prior livestock experience motivated me to continue growing my knowledge and involvement through FFA.”
Farley has become a key part of her chapter’s leadership and contest entries. “I am currently involved in the Ag Communications team and Turf Grass Judging,” she said. “In addition, I am highly active within our chapter’s officer team, where I contribute to planning events, supporting members, and strengthening our chapter as a whole.”
The organization, she said, has pushed her to grow. “FFA has encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone by taking on new opportunities, improving my public speaking skills, and leading by example,” Farley said. “It has also strengthened my desire to support and encourage other members to become more involved and confident within the organization.”
Farley credits both family and teachers for guiding her. “My sister has been my greatest influence throughout my FFA journey,” she said. “She was deeply involved in agriculture and encouraged me during challenging times while helping me build foundational knowledge. Additionally, my agricultural teachers have had a significant impact by teaching me the discipline, dedication, and commitment required to succeed in FFA.”
Some of the toughest work has come in preparing speeches. “One of my most difficult challenges has been memorizing a speech, as memorization does not come easily to me,” Farley said. “Overcoming this required perseverance and dedication, spending countless hours repeatedly writing and practicing the material. Although exhausting, the effort has been rewarding and has strengthened my confidence and resilience.”
Those lessons, she added, show up far beyond contests and classrooms. “The values of leadership, responsibility, and strong character that I have gained through FFA influence how I approach everyday situations,” she said. “FFA has helped shape my mindset, guiding me to approach life with a more mature, responsible, and thoughtful perspective.”
Farley hopes her impact on the chapter will last long after she graduates. “My goal is to leave behind a chapter knowing that I made a positive and lasting impact,” she said. “I hope to be remembered for bringing joy, spirit, and encouragement to the chapter while inspiring younger members to grow and stay involved.”
“I plan to attend the University of Central Arkansas to study physical therapy. After earning my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, I plan to return home to work at a local clinic to gain valuable professional experience. Ultimately, my goal is to open my own physical therapy practice and serve my community.”
