For Jadyn Kaufman, competing on an FFA team has “helped me put myself out there,” she said. “It’s been a boost to my self-confidence to learn how to speak in front of strangers at the competitions. They’re also fun because you get to meet lots of students from other schools.”
Jadyn participates on the chapter’s parliamentary procedures team along with five other students. She also does livestock and dairy judging.
A junior at Iola High School, Jadyn serves as the chapter’s secretary. About 35 students belong to FFA.
Jadyn is the daughter of Jason and Jodie Kaufman.
Living on a farm was a natural lead-in to joining FFA.
Jadyn said she enjoys “helping my father out,” raising crops and tending to cattle.
Jadyn, age 17, credits FFA for exposing students to possible careers in agriculture.
“Some will take it into their future, like my brother,” she said. Josh Kaufman is now a student at Kansas State University studying agri-business.
Her younger brother, Jordan, also belongs to FFA. He’s a freshman at IHS.
As for Jadyn, she’s thinking of pursuing a marketing degree at the University of Kansas.
“We’re a ‘house divided.’ Dad went to K-State; mom went to KU,” she said. As for her dad’s opinion on her choices, she’s confident “He’ll be proud of me no matter what I do.”
Jadyn said her favorite subjects in school this year are horticulture and media tech and workplace training.
She’s also a cheerleader, played volleyball last fall, is looking forward to playing second base in softball this summer, and is a member of Miss Chelsea’s Dance Academy.
Jadyn encourages other students to join FFA.
“It’s for everyone, whether you live in the country or not.”
