Andrew Curtis Szalach gives his retiring address at New York’s 100th FFA convention in May 2025.

State Office Gives Lifelong Impacts

FFA members have a different high school experience than students who aren’t involved in agriculture or FFA. FFA members are offered a unique perspective compared to their peers, and serving in state office is no different.

FFA state office is a life-changing experience for those who serve yearlong on an officer team. Officers learn skills, make lifelong connections and friendships, and learn more about themselves in the process. The direction after state office can differ for everyone, and the way the experience shapes individuals varies from person to person. New York FFA has had several phenomenal state officer teams, and the 2024-25 team was no different.

Andrew Curtis Szalach served as the 2024-25 New York State FFA Treasurer and gave his insight on the life of a past state officer. State office provided a broader view of agriculture in New York. Officers spent time with state legislators at the state Capitol discussing agricultural education and saw new agricultural innovations in Long Island and New York City. State officers have the opportunity to travel across the state and nation, making lasting connections with FFA members from all walks of life.

Doing to Learn in State Office, Beyond Agriculture

Officers gain valuable life skills, and Szalach learned about traveling on the road for extended periods during tours of New York. Adapting to different environments and situations is a craft that benefited officers during their term, and Szalach knows he will continue to reap their benefits long past his term.

These opportunities teach officers not only about agriculture but also about themselves. For Szalach, he learned that confidence was a struggle and, during his term, worked to build a sense of self-assurance and pride. Being confident in oneself is a trait that will benefit individuals throughout their lives. The experience helped him take the personal leap to attend college out of state.

State Office Takes Those Who Serve Far

Szalach is currently attending the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, studying agricultural engineering technology with a minor in agribusiness. He believes his time in state office has significantly helped him pursue a career in agriculture, as he plans to become a precision ag specialist helping farmers master efficiency using GPS systems.