By Julie Johansen
Eight Emery High FFA students along with advisors Justin and Tisha Thornley left on Oct. 28 for the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Four of the students had previously won first place at the state level and were representing Utah in the national milk quality competition. Those students competing were Josie Gilbert, Korby Christiansen, Ethan Staples and Brianne Benson. The contest consisted of cheese identifications, identifying defects in milk, performing a California mastitis test, a team activity and three written tests.
While these students were competing, the other participants, including Drake Weber, Dani Jo Thatcher, Shaylee Grange and Jessica Fox, toured the agricultural department at Purdue University, learning about the new technology used in today’s agriculture industry.
All six days were very busy and included visiting the home of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs and the Louisville Slugger Museum to see the process of making bats. The students attended the opening sessions of the convention and listened to motivational speakers.
The students celebrated Halloween by attending a Brett Young concert. They also toured a shop and career expo. The students expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to attend the convention, stating it was an opportunity they would never forget as they met new friends and spoke with people from throughout the United States.