There was no hesitation from Balko High School’s Aspen Freeman to join the FFA chapter when she was in middle school. It was something she knew would be part of her life throughout her time in high school. 

“I became an FFA member as soon as I was old enough to which was my eighth-grade year but I actually started showing swine my third grade year and have shown every year since then,” Freeman said. “My dad encouraged me to get involved in FFA, when he was explaining how he got to show animals and try new things; I thought it was the coolest thing ever and wanted to try it for myself and fell in love with it.” 

Like so many of her peers, being part of FFA means meeting new people; something Freeman loves about the program. 

“I enjoy meeting new people, making new friends, showing swine, and going to some amazing FFA conferences and events,” Freeman said. “Balko is its own FFA chapter. I am the current vice president, and I am on the shooting team, judging team, and show team.” 

Showing swine is one activity Freeman loves doing. She’s also part of NHS, FCA, SWAT and STUCO. In the past she has participated in choir, band, drumline, and cheer. Freeman is a student-athlete as well, participating in sports such as cross country, softball, and track. 

“Showing has taught me so many valuable lessons that I’m not sure I would have ever gotten the opportunity to learn if it wasn’t for showing and would encourage anybody that is thinking about trying it to take the chance and give it a try it might end up changing your life! It sure did for me,” Freeman said. “FFA is an organization that has a spot for anyone, there is numerous activities to do anything from showing animals (my favorite), judging, shooting, to speaking contest.” 

The junior plans to attend college and pursue a degree in physical therapy and cosmetology