Coming from all corners of the world with a variety of plans for the future, members of the Corps of Cadets represent a diverse group of students. Regardless of their background or dreams for the future, many cadets’ interest in developing themselves as leaders began well before their college careers.
Among the many high school programs that cadets were involved in, the FFA is one organization that aligns closely with the core values of the Corps, as indicated through the motto for FFA:
“Learning to do, Doing to learn, Earning to live, Living to serve”
Though their similarities may not be immediately apparent, both the Corps of Cadets and FFA experiences closely mirror each other in preparing young leaders for continued success. For two current cadets, Matthew Marquez ‘24 and Julianna Ramirez ‘25, their time in both organizations has greatly prepared them to achieve their future goals.
A former member of the Detroit FFA Chapter (TX), Matthew Marquez ‘24 is currently a senior geology major, a member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band and a Ross Volunteer. With his sights set on pursuing a career with NASA, Matthew credits both the Corps of Cadets and FFA for making the path toward this dream more attainable.
“In the future, I hope to aid in humanity’s quest to become a multi-planetary species, specifically through growing crops in space with NASA, on the moon and on Mars. During my time in the FFA, I had the privilege of meeting then NASA Administrator, Jim Bridenstine, at the 2019 National Convention. He advised me to pursue geosciences in college. I have since studied geology and plan to specialize in soil and crop sciences post graduation,” Marquez said.
An FFA Ford Leadership Scholar, Matthew’s time in the organization included stints as his chapter’s Vice President, the Area 6 Vice President, and as a Texas State Needs Committee Member at the National level. These leadership positions inspired him to join the Corps in search of similar opportunities.
“Through the Corps, I met Aggie Astronaut, Colonel Michael Fossom ‘80, and made a connection with a former B-Company Streetfighter who is currently a Flight Lead in Mission Control. His commitment to giving me sound advice is so indicative of the timeless community fostered here in the Corps. Both organizations have taught me this: you get out what you put in.”
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Julianna Ramirez ‘25 is a junior agricultural systems management major from Pearland, Texas. During her time as a member of the Shadow Creek FFA Chapter (TX), Julianna participated on a number of teams, to include livestock judging and Spanish creed. Within the Corps, Julianna is a member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band.
Julianna says that her time in the FFA and the Corps have both contributed to her solid leadership foundation.
“The FFA helped prepare me for the Corps by teaching me that it is okay to be uncomfortable in unfamiliar situations. Pushing yourself to do things that you have never done before is not a bad thing, it's an opportunity for growth,” Ramirez said.
After serving as a Gulf District Officer and as her chapter’s President throughout the 2020-2021 school year, Julianna has come to recognize the similarities between the Corps and the FFA.
“The Corps and The FFA are both student led organizations focused on the development and growth of their members as leaders of tomorrow. Both organizations allow their members to guide their experiences in a way that will benefit them the most.”
Through an emphasis on characteristics like selfless service, the experiences provided by both the FFA and the Corps of Cadets propel students toward success. Regardless of their participants’ goals for the future, one thing is certain:
Together, We Make Leaders.
Story By: Robin Nelson '22