MATTIE LYNN HAYNES
vividly remember my first livestock judging practice. As a nervous eight-year-old girl, I tried to place a class of market lambs, and then did my best to give the
and riding in the van with any other group of people. Following graduation in May 2020, I plan to attend Oklahoma State University, as an agriculture-business major with an option in pre-law. Being a cowboy, and attending a university of such agricultural prestige has always been a dream. After all, the Lord did say he would lead us by “still-water”. If plans go accordingly, I aspire to attend law school and pursue a career that advocates for the industry that built me. When I opened that steno for my first practice and struggled through a set of Market Lambs, I could not have imagined what was in store. I am a firm believer that the big things in life are the seemingly mundane things, and that could not be more applicable here. It is astonishing to me how livestock judging not only builds long lasting friendships, and instills imperative
set. I grew up in the northeast corner of Oklahoma in a small town named Jay, where roots of agricultural, family, and faith run deep. I was blessed to be raised here, by extremely supportive parents, and a tight knit family that truly cultivated me to who I am today. Just as most kids in
agriculture, I was fortunate enough to be heavily
involved in 4H, FFA, and exhibit
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sheep, hogs, and goats. When the time came to decide where to attend college, it is safe to say that
life skills, but ultimately has a unique way of bettering people. Words cannot express how
God had a place for me at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M in Miami, Oklahoma. Though my parents loved the idea of me being close to home, and I thought I was only going to college for academics and livestock judging. I quickly realized NEO would mean so much more! I found an agriculture department where I am surrounded by people that support and encourage me to pursue my aspirations, and above all feels like home. I also met eleven teammates from across the country who have become some of dearest friends. I cannot imagine sharing trials, triumphs,
gracious I am to have parents who provide unwavering support throughout all of my endeavors, and to serve a God who always prevails and love
unconditionally. To say I am humbled thus far would be a drastic understatement! •
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