Hometown: St. Vincent, Ark.
Age: 10
Parents: Keith and Pamela Hawkins
What is your involvement in agriculture?
“We have 33 head of cattle and six chicken houses, plus the two horses. I help in the chicken houses by setting them up before the birds come. Also, I go around and pick up dead chickens, and sometimes I get to help my dad fix things around the farm. Usually, my siblings and I will feed and water all the animals, too. There is always a job to be done around our farm, so my dad keeps me very busy. I love it, though, because I get to be around all of the animals.”
What is your favorite part about living on a farm?
“I get to help my mom and dad, while also spending a lot of time with them. The most fun part, though, is riding the tractors to feed the cattle. One day, I will get to drive the tractors, but until then, riding with my parents on them is still very fun.
What are your future plans?
“I want to be a chicken farmer just like my parents. Also, I would love to have cows and hogs. After my parents retire, my dream is to take over their farm. I think growing up around the animals will be a huge help when I get older and become ready to do my parents’ do now. Learning everything that goes into my dad and mom’s job is a good starting point for my future.”
What’s the best advice about agriculture you have received from adults?
“To make sure you learn by watching, so you can fix things when they break. Being around a farm, I know that there is always something new that needs fixing, so it is very important to know how to do just that. My dad told me this advice a few years ago, and I have been trying to follow it ever since. I make sure to pay attention to every single thing my parents and siblings do around the farm. You can always learn something new.”
What advice would you give to other young people who want to be involved in agriculture?
“Farming is very hard work, but it can also be really fun. It is important to find excitement while doing your job. It keeps every day interesting.”
