Who am I?

Who am I?

People often ask, “What was it like running for a State FFA Office?” And the typical response is, “Well it was pretty tough, but overall very worthwhile.” What most people don’t realize, however, is that some State Officers, including myself, have thought about dropping out of the running.

It never crossed my mind I wanted to run for an office position until the end of my junior year of high school. I had just been elected to my position on the Southeast District officer team and it briefly flickered across my mind, maybe I could run for a state office? Then just as quick as it was there it was gone as I began working on other events and activities.

Several months later, I was halfway through my senior year of high school and it was time to fill out the Intent to Run forms for all those that wished to apply for the candidacy. The form was quite simple, so I filled it out and sent it in. After I sent in that form the doubts came. “Should I go through with this? Is this what I want? Am I worthy of even being a State FFA Officer?” But it was still early in the process and I pushed aside the doubts and moved forward.

Then the first Growth Interviews came. They didn’t count toward the process “scoring,” they were just an opportunity to get a taste of what the process at state convention would be like. The interviews went okay and after everyone finished their interview, we all gathered together for feedback. I looked around at the very prominent and well-known faces and the doubts came rushing back.

Over the next several months I would have more doubts and internal questions. Twice I talked with my Advisor about dropping out. Twice I talked to my family about dropping out. They supported me 110%, so I decided to stick with it.

The week before convention and the beginning of the final stages of the process were the last time that these doubts and insecurities came to me.

“Is this the right thing to do?”

“Am I deserving of this opportunity?”

“Am I capable?”

“Who am I to do this?”

Convention came and went. 13 candidates completed the process. Six were selected and elected to their respective offices. I was one of those six. I was so happy and excited, but after a few days the adrenaline wore off, as did the new, and the doubts came rushing back.

“Can I do this?”

“I’m not prepared.”

“What are those I serve going to think of me?”

It took weeks of training for me to answer a question so simple. The morning after we were elected, we did a reflection. I said during that time, “I am me, and we are we.” I didn’t truly understand what it was that I said at that time.

We all have different strengths, abilities, beliefs, aspirations, connections, and relationships.

Who am I?

I am ME.

You are YOU.

And we, are WE.

We all bring something to the table, and we are all stronger than we realize. It takes time to hone these things and be the best that we can be.

Dig deep. Answer the doubts that you might have with strength. And call upon those you care about to help you when you are struggling.

Who are you?

Dig deep,

Logan Elliott, President