Adriana Rasberry

Hometown: Jones, AL

SAE:

I have five Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs) ranging from Diversified Livestock to Landscape Management. The two I am most passionate about are Agricultural Education and Swine Production. In my Agricultural Education SAE, I began as a teaching assistant for my FFA advisor in classes where I wasn’t enrolled. That experience has grown into teaching elementary students about agriculture through lessons that connect directly to their current science curriculum. In my Swine Production SAE, I operate a feeder pig enterprise. I currently have three Duroc barrows that I plan to send to processing this fall before marketing the pork directly to consumers in my community.

Favorite FFA memory:

My favorite FFA memory happened during my second year serving as a National Delegate. My committee was just minutes away from beginning deliberations, while one of my best friends, Abby Longcrier, was representing Alabama in the National Creed Speaking CDE that same day. We had just received the five-minute warning when my phone buzzed, it was Abby. Without thinking, I sent her to voicemail because our meeting was about to begin. Then it hit me: she had just competed and was probably about to receive her results. I quickly asked my committee chair, Chloe, if I could step out to return the call, and she graciously said yes. The moment Abby answered, she excitedly told me she had advanced to the second round. For the next five minutes, I sat in the hallway celebrating with her over the phone as we both cried tears of joy. It remains one of my favorite memories because I was able to share such a special moment with one of my closest friends.

Favorite book:

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is my favorite book. I first became interested after listening to the Broadway musical inspired by the novel, then read the entire book on a plane ride before finally watching the movie a few months later.

Favorite movie:

My dad convinced me to watch O Brother, Where Art Thou?, and it has been one of my favorite movies ever since. I never get tired of rewatching it!

Favorite food:

In honor of my trio’s Wednesday sushi outings, sushi has become my favorite food. Whether it’s a crunch roll, spicy crab roll, or something completely new, I’m always excited to try it.

Favorite quote:

“I would suggest to you that when you look up here, you’re not looking at us. We are a mirror reflecting you. And if you like what you see, then just look a little deeper. This is you.” — Jeremy Hansen, Artemis II Astronaut

Future plans:

I plan to major in Agricultural Education and earn my bachelor’s degree, with hopes of continuing on to a master’s and eventually a doctorate. My dream is to serve as an agriculture educator and FFA advisor, helping students discover the same opportunities that shaped my life. I also plan to stay involved in the swine industry and hope to one day own an Angus cattle herd.

Hobby:

Drawing, playing volleyball, baking, listening to podcasts and audiobooks, public speaking, attending livestock shows, and playing video games.

What are you most excited about during your year of service?:

I am most excited about traveling across Alabama and experiencing parts of the state I’ve never had the opportunity to visit. Until fifth grade, I traveled the country with my parents and loved every minute of it. Since settling back down in Alabama, I’ve spent most of my time in the central part of the state. This year, I’m excited not only to see new places but also to learn about the unique agriculture and communities that make each region special. After all, agriculture may be the foundation of our association, but our members are what truly bring it to life.