Being selected to represent your state to interview for one of six spots on the National FFA Officer Team is considered a big honor. Candidates go through a series of interviews before a decision is made. South Dakota and Minnesota represented the Red River Farm Network’s coverage area this year. This is Minnesota FFA member Madilyn Smith’s second year competing for the chance to represent Minnesota on the officer team. “The national officers take a year off from college or the workforce and travel thousands of miles across the country to impact students on the local level and host convention.” These candidates are passionate about the FFA. South Dakota FFA member Hunter Eide credits the organization to building confidence and a deeper understanding of agriculture. “It also helped me develop that network of agriculture.” Thirty-seven FFA members from across the country interviewed for the National FFA Officer team. Smith and Eide did not advance, but are both glad they had the honor to interview. The final National FFA Officer team will be announced on Saturday. Hear the story.