By Andi Anderson
The National FFA Convention & Expo is a big deal for students, offering a chance to check out more than 300 colleges and agricultural businesses. For one student from Nipomo, California, this event four years ago turned out to be a game-changer, leading her all the way to Purdue University in Indiana, a journey of nearly 2,220 miles.
Kayla Zalesny, currently a senior majoring in Ag Business Marketing at Purdue, thinks this opportunity is pretty special. "Every year, I look forward to this chance to talk to students that were in a place that I was four years ago."
Back then, Kayla was a state officer with California FFA and was thinking about staying on the West Coast for college, eyeing Cal Poly, a college near her hometown.
But her ag teacher saw potential beyond the West Coast and suggested she look into Purdue. Kayla wasn't too sure at first. She says, "I just kept on shrugging her off."
It was during a visit to the National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis that Kayla's view changed. She remembers, "We happened to come across the Purdue University College of Agriculture booth, and she said, 'Just go talk to them and have a conversation.' It really was within that ten-minute chat that I changed my mind, and I ended up applying the next day."
Kayla is really grateful for FFA and the National Convention and Expo because they opened doors for her to discover her passion and explore new possibilities. As a Purdue Ambassador representing the College of Agriculture, Kayla is getting ready to graduate next May with a job lined up at Corteva Agriscience.
She highlights the welcoming atmosphere in Purdue's College of Agriculture, especially for students from out of state like her. "Coming from out of state, you might not know anyone before you get to Purdue and set foot on campus. But your advisors are quick to help you get in the right classes and make you feel at home."
Kayla also talks about the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone during college, making new connections and having new experiences. Her journey from her small hometown to Purdue has already opened doors to exciting opportunities and meaningful relationships.
The story of Kayla Zalesny shows how the FFA can change lives and how college education can have a huge impact. Her journey, from California to Purdue, is proof that amazing opportunities are out there for those willing to explore and embrace new horizons.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pixdeluxe.
Categories: Indiana, Business, Education