Current Elk City High School sophomore Jill Meador is in her second year of FFA after spending time in the 4-H Club. While in 4-H, Meador said she always looked forward to being in FFA.
“Both of my parents greatly influenced the importance of this organization and how much it would help me communicate with all sorts of people and make decisions that would impact my future after high school. Another person who has influenced me and shown me everything that FFA offers, is our current FFA chapter President, Mason Smith. When I first joined FFA, he immediately started to invest in me and mentored me for all kinds of competitions and improvements. He’s shown me how much FFA can support my future goals,” said Meador.
As a member, Meador shows cattle (Angus heifers) that she has bred and owned from her families Angus herd. She’s also shown a few Herefords from Vanderwork Herefords in Taloga, OK. There are many things Meador enjoys about FFA including the people and the number of activities you can be involved in.
“What I enjoy the most is probably the diversity of it all. FFA doesn’t just offer one thing. There are tons of opportunities that vary on a large scale. This makes FFA perfect for anyone to join and feel like they fit in, because they have something for everyone,” said Meador.
The sophomore said FFA is preparing her for a future in college and a career beyond school.
“I think it has helped prepare me for any future career that I decide to achieve. The great thing about FFA it’s not just preparing you for just a career in agriculture. It’s preparing you for any career that’s out there. I’ve learned that nothing is just given to you, you have to work for the outcome that you desire. It’s also taught me that you can’t achieve all of your goals alone. Being involved with people who can help me achieve my future goals, I better understand that having people help you get to where you’re supposed to go is better than walking the path alone,” said Meador. “I’m looking to apply to several colleges but hope to be accepted to Oklahoma State University. It’s been a dream of mine for a long time to attend school there. They offer a wide range of degrees and careers to pursue. I have not quite figured what career path I want to take yet. I think I would like to explore my options wherever I end up going to school and pursue any opportunities that could help me achieve my goals.”
Meador has spent most of her time involved in school activities from competing with the softball and basketball teams to FFA and more.
“My freshman year I was a part of our chapter’s Opening and Closing Ceremonies team that advanced to state. I’ve been to several CDE competitions in the past. I enjoy the horticulture side of FFA as well. I’m also a class representative for student council, a member of Key Club, NHS, FCA, and Spanish club. I play fastpitch softball and basketball. I very much enjoy playing sports and being a part of a team,” said Meador.
