Name: Michael Patterson
Family: Parents, Donald Patterson & Brenda Smith; brother, Anthony Patterson
School: Searcy County School District, Marshall, Ark., 12th grade
FFA: Forestry Judging, Treasurer of his FFA Chapter
How do you believe you will grow as an FFA member and develop life skills?
“The main thing I learn is responsibility,” said Michael. “Judging will help me in having experience in raising my own livestock, how and when to sell and how to budget my finances. As a senior, I wanted to be more involved and as treasurer, I could have a positive input with all of my fellow students, not just those in FFA. ”
Why did you choose this field in FFA?
“My brother and I go hunting a lot and judging in the Forestry Division will teach me more about tress and their importance to agriculture and the environment.”
Who is your role model?
“Both of my grandpas, Donald Patterson and Louie Thomas, because they are good at giving me helpful advice on growing up and becoming a responsible person. They both grew up on a farm and have been cattlemen all their lives, and they give me advice on making wise choices about buying and selling my livestock. I have two Quarter Horses of my own and help take care of six other horses. I have two Brangus cows and a commercial beef heifer. I’ve raised and sold two other cows,” explained Michael.
What are your goals for the future?
“I plan to go to college and major in coaching and minor in Parks & Recreation.”
Story and Photo by Jeanie Horn
