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INSTITUTE, W.Va. -- Blennerhassett FFA Member and Parkersburg South High School student Michelle Sampson, earned 1st place recognition in the Social Science Division of the West Virginia FFA Agriscience Fair. Her research titled "Agriculture State of Mind" evaluated the mental health of individuals in the agriculture industry, with the intent of increasing awareness of the mental health challenges within the Ag community.
The research project follows strict adherence and completion on the scientific method and industry standards for scientific reporting. Sampson completed a Literature Review of the existing research and data on the subject; developed a methodical survey tool; collected and analyzed data and drew conclusions from those results. Her research process and methods were reported and she presented her finding and answered questions with industry professionals.
West Virginia State University hosted the West Virginia FFA Agriscience Fair on June 2. The event, held in collaboration with other state Career and Leadership Development Events hosted FFA Members from around West Virginia. The Agriscience Fair gives students an opportunity to gain real-world, hands on experiences in the various disciplines of agriculture. Students use scientific principles to solve complex problems that face the industry.
As a state winner in the event, Sampson has earned the opportunity to compete in the National Agriscience Fair this fall. Michelle will submit her research electronically for review by national judges. Finalists will be chosen from the submissions with online interviews of finalists being held in September. National FFA Agriscience Finalists will then present their research and engage/network with universities and sponsors during National FFA Convention in November.
The Blennerhassett FFA is a school-based youth organization of students in agriculture education classes at the Wood County Technical Center. The chapter is one of 8,995 local FFA Chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. For more, visit Blennerhassett FFA on Facebook, Instagram or at their website blennerhassettffa.theaet.com.