By Ghizlane Akourim, YES 2015-2016, Morocco, hosted by FLAG in Shelbyville, IN

Being an exchange student from a big city, studying in Shelbyville, IN next to a corn field was so different to me. I never thought I would enjoy the countryside this much: the peacefulness of the region, the nice people, and the beautiful landscapes make me feel so connected to nature.

In my Agribusiness class, I heard about The FFA (Future Farmers of America) and was interested in their motto, “Learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, living to serve.” My experience wouldn't be complete without joining the FFA .

Two Months In Indiana, two months at Triton Central HS, and only two months in FFA has made me aware of the importance of agriculture. It especially relates to the more than 50 hours of volunteer work I have already completed in a greenhouse.

In the beginning of October, I completed a long application to assist at the biggest FFA event in the country, the National FFA Convention in Louisville, KY. I was selected as one of the ten leaders in my high school that care about the future of agriculture and that would make a difference in their community.

In Louisville, I got to meet representatives from all over the U.S. and talk about the country’s diversity. I also heard powerful speakers that motivated me to relay their positive messages to our chapter and to take initiative to teach others about what we learned. At the National FFA Convention, it was easy to make friends from all over the U.S. because we felt united by the same passions and values.

After three incredible days in Louisville, I saw that FFA is important as a national organization and that anything is possible. With our work and determination we can make the world a better place! I will never forget all the things we did at the convention, including assisting at workshops, participating in a scavenger hunt, and wearing the official dress. We may have suffered from sleep deprivation, but that was totally worth it!

Since the conference, we have begun preparing for FFA competitions and career development events. We plan to participate in Agricultural Sales, Parliamentary Procedure, Prepared Public Speaking, and Horse Evaluation. I am so happy to be actively involved in my high school and community. My exchange year is full of surprises and challenges. I have experienced new things, jumped on opportunities, and acquired a love for the world, its cultures and its diversity!