Meet Makayla Rodriguez, a hardworking exhibitor from Fowler FFA!
"Hi, I’m Makayla Rodriguez, and this is my third year in FFA
and my second year showing swine. I first joined FFA my freshman year because I
wanted to try something new, take on a new challenge, get more involved in
agriculture, and learn more about working with animals. Joining FFA was a
decision I made for myself, but knowing that agriculture was already a part of
my family’s history made me even more excited about the choice I had made. My
grandma was involved in 4-H when she was a child, and my great-grandpa had his
own ranch with almond tree orchards. Knowing that my grandparents had their own
connections to agriculture made me curious and excited to find my own way to be
a part of it and make my own memories and experiences. After joining FFA, I
realized it was so much more than I thought it would be. I’ve grown to really
enjoy working with my animals, being involved in committees and CDE teams, and
helping my chapter whenever I can. FFA has given me opportunities to meet new
people, learn new skills, and become more responsible. I’ve gained a better
understanding of what it takes to work hard toward something I’m truly
passionate about. I’m grateful for everything FFA has taught me and all the
opportunities, memories, and experiences it has given me.
This year, my animal project is a Hampshire gilt named Jolene. She has been a really fun animal to work with and has a great personality. I spend time with her every day by feeding, walking, and washing her and making sure she is well taken care of. She works really well with me and has a great temperament, which makes her easy and enjoyable to work with. Through this project, I’ve learned a lot about responsibility, patience, and the time and effort it takes to raise and prepare an animal for the show."