Dylan Bailey is a senior at Montague High School whose involvement in the National FFA Organization has shaped his high school years. But it’s not just about his FFA involvement – Dylan is someone who thrives in community, leadership, and hard work.
Photo courtesy of Dylan Bailey
A Journey Into FFA
Dylan’s story with FFA started in seventh grade, where he first found a sense of belonging and responsibility. Although he admits that he wasn’t the most confident student at the time, FFA quickly became more than just an extracurricular activity; it became a community. “What really kept me in FFA was the relationships I built,” Dylan shared. “It’s a place where everyone has a role, and everyone’s voice matters.”
As Dylan rose through the ranks, his passion for FFA grew. From his first competition in eighth grade, where he made it to state, to his role as the Chapter President this year, his involvement has expanded. His leadership in FFA includes serving as the Building Communities Chair and the Reporter before becoming the president. His peers even elected him to these positions through an interview process, a testament to the trust they place in him.
Beyond FFA
When he’s not immersed in FFA activities, Dylan enjoys hiking, skiing, and spending time with friends. He’s also an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a group focused on faith and community. Whether it’s hunting, fishing, or just hanging out, Dylan cherishes the balance between school, his extracurricular activities, and the relationships he’s built with his friends and family.
Dylan’s parents have played an essential role in shaping his work ethic and communication skills. “My mom works at Grand Valley State University, and my dad’s an English teacher,” Dylan explained. “They’ve taught me so much about professionalism and how to properly express myself.”
FFA’s Impact on Dylan’s Future
Looking ahead, Dylan plans to attend Grand Valley State University to study mechanical engineering. He believes that FFA has set him up for success in the workforce, offering practical lessons in responsibility, time management, and leadership. “FFA pushes you outside your comfort zone, but it also prepares you for life after school. It gives you the skills needed for a job, whether it’s in agriculture or any other field,” he said.
Dylan’s involvement in FFA has also led him to become a state star finalist in placement, a recognition for his supervised agricultural experience, which includes a variety of jobs he’s had over the years. Whether working at Larsen Farms or Silver Lake Chicken Shack, Dylan’s work experience has taught him valuable life lessons. “I learned a lot about hard work, but I also learned that if you want something in life, you have to separate yourself from the crowd and make your own path,” Dylan reflected.
A Commitment to Giving Back
As he prepares for his final state convention in March, Dylan is excited for the opportunity to give back to the FFA community. “I want to help the younger members, just like others have helped me along the way,” he said. Dylan’s leadership doesn’t end with his time in high school; he plans to continue supporting FFA after graduation by helping students prepare for contests and events.
The FFA’s Lasting Impact
Dylan’s story is a testament to the power of FFA in shaping young leaders. It’s more than just a club; it’s a place where students can develop valuable life skills, build lasting relationships, and prepare for successful futures. Dylan’s journey, from a shy middle schooler to a confident leader, shows the profound impact that FFA can have on a person. As he reflects on his time in FFA, Dylan encourages younger students to stick with it, “It gets better, and you’ll be so glad you did.”
Montague FFA and Alumni Facebook Page
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