Ames and Aden advance to district competition

Most people dislike public speaking.

Not St. Joseph FFA member Mallory Ames.

Ames, along with Lindsey Aden and Abby Schlueter competed in the Public Speaking Career Development Event on Jan. 23 at Monticello High School.

Aden placed first in prepared public speaking, Schlueter placed third in extemporaneous speaking and Ames placed second in the job interview section.

Ames and Aden advanced to the district competition.

“Competing at the public speaking CDE was absolute blast,” Ames said.

The job interview CDE consists of a job application, phone interview, in person interview, submission of resume, cover letter and references.

The career development events allows students to participate in situations of real-world activities that are used by employers while using their leadership skills, active listening, problem-solving and decision making skills. The CDE also helps them with their written and communication skills.
Ames said she feels the competition is the most helpful CDE for her life after high school.

“It is teaching me how the real world works and how applying for a job will work in my future,” she said.

Ames said the most challenging part of the job interview CDE is slowing down her speech while participating in the in-person interview.

“It’s easy for me to talk to people but when I get nervous I speed up an insane amount,” she said.

Ames said she was glad she had decided to participate in this unique portion of FFA.

“I feel that through FFA I have developed so many skills that are going to help me in the future,” she said.

Ames said through this CDE she has become a better communicator and leader.

“This is such a good opportunity for students,” she said.