Growing up around livestock, Empire High School freshman Kylie Lemons found the transition into her school’s FFA chapter to be an easy transition.

“I first got involved in FFA in seventh grade. My dad got me involved in FFA,” Lemons said. “My dad has been my biggest influence because he is always there when I need help and he is my ag teacher, which means he can teach me even more in the classroom or at home when I’m working with my show cattle.”

Lemons was a natural at showing livestock, starting with swine, and moving into cattle. It’s just one of many activities Lemons is involved in with FFA.

“I show cattle and I used to show pigs. I enjoy the livestock shows and all the public speaking contests I attend, too. I am involved in public speaking, horticulture, livestock judging, livestock showing [and] shop work,” said Lemons.

Also a member of the basketball, track, and softball teams, Lemons said she loves playing sports for Empire.

“I love being in the athletic program because I can do what I love on the court or on the fields and even though there are some tough times I can still push through it. What I love the most about my teammates and team is that we work good as a family and we have good team chemistry,” Lemons said.

The freshman has big plans for her high school and college career in the future.

“My future plans are to graduate from college and become a large animal veterinarian,” Lemons said. “I would tell the younger kids that FFA is fun and it’s a good learning experience. As long as you are involved and have fun then you should like it and want to keep doing it.”