Success can be difficult to define. We all have our own ideas of what true success means to us. I think a good place to start when thinking about what success looks like in our lives is by considering the things we value. At the end of the day, what matters most? My personal answer to this question would be faith, family, friends and being a kind person.  

As individuals involved in the Angus Association, we can all get caught up in the competitiveness in the show ring. Being competitive in life can be good. It can motivate us as individuals to strive for more and work harder. However, as I mentioned before, never lose sight of what is really important in life. When your time comes to an end as a junior member in this association, banners and ribbons will be far from the most valuable thing you get out of the NJAA. The number one thing you stand to gain from being involved in the National Junior Angus Association is quite simple: genuine connections with good people.  

I encourage you, juniors, to make the most of every opportunity the association offers to connect with other members. Two experiences in particular that I encourage all juniors to consider participating in are the LEAD and Raising the Bar conferences. These conferences are unique experiences that are certain to expand on your networking capabilities. Both events change locations every year, making it possible to see various locations across the country. The LEAD conference in particular has been something I’ve looked forward to every summer for many years now. I love reuniting with friends from across the country and coming together for a few days of learning and fun!  

The people we surround ourselves with tend to be a reflection of who we are. If there's any one group I would suggest surrounding yourself with, it would be the members of our association. The people who make up the NJAA and Angus Association are hard-working, intelligent, innovative, strong, passionate and kind people. As you work your way through your junior membership, remember it's ok to have a competitive spirit towards the show ring and contents, but never lose sight of the real prize. The people. The friendships. The memories.