Elgin High School junior Laela Begley is a member of the FFA chapter at school and she is involved in many of the activities FFA has to offer. Begley got involved in FFA when she was a freshman showing pigs.

“I started the summer before high school, and I was hooked by August on being in FFA. My parents were very involved in the Elgin FFA when they were in high school and encouraged me to do everything I could possibly do. The three ag teachers at Elgin also pushed me to step out of my comfort zone. They have made a lasting impact on my life,” said Begley.

At present, Begley serves as chapter secretary along with being a member of several teams.

“I am involved in many contest teams. I participate in Senior Prepared Public Speaking, I was a part of the State Runner-Up Agricultural Sales Team at the Oklahoma State FFA contest, and I collect research for my Agriscience Research projects. I also build projects to compete with at OYE in my Ag Mechanics class,” said Begley.

Showing livestock and meeting new people are two things Begley said she loves about being in FFA.

“I enjoy meeting new people across the state at every event I attend. I have made some lifelong friendships that I hold very dearly. I have shown for three years and absolutely love it. I work with my animals every day for at least two hours to ensure they are ready for show time. I have learned how to administer medications to treat my pigs for sickness.”

FFA isn’t the only group Begley is involved in at EHS. She is a member of National Honor Society and is an officer in FCCLA. Begley plans to attend OSU and major in agricultural education and minor in animal science. Begley said being in FFA has been life changing.

“The memories, friends, and lessons you can experience during your time in FFA will last a lifetime time. It is worth it to join,” said Begley.