By Blake Jackson
A student led livestock show brings together agriculture students who want to learn new skills, gain confidence, and connect with others who enjoy caring for animals. The event offers a hands-on learning experience that helps students understand responsibility, teamwork, and the daily work required in the livestock industry.
Many students enter the show to try a new species, challenge themselves, or build their knowledge in animal care.
Participants choose from beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, goats, or pigs and spend several weeks preparing their animals for the show. Students receive guidance based on their experience level.
Novice showmen are paired with advanced showmen so they can learn helpful techniques and feel comfortable in the ring. This mentoring system supports new students and encourages teamwork between classmates.
Each species is shown in separate categories, and winners then move to a round robin event where they show every species. A livestock professional judges the final round and selects the overall winner.
Judges and advisors often remind students that livestock shows teach more than competitive skills. They help students learn hard work, patience, problem solving, and communication. Many participants say the experience helps them grow personally and build long-lasting friendships.
The livestock show is part of a long tradition that dates back many years. Past student groups have hosted similar events, and current leaders want to bring the tradition back to life. Student organizers hope the show encourages future participation and helps strengthen their agriculture club.
They believe the event shows how dedicated agriculture students are and how much effort they put into learning and improving their skills.
Faculty advisors support the show because it gives students lessons that cannot be learned in a regular classroom. Students learn time management, responsibility, teamwork, and how to handle real world challenges.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-artistgndphotography
Categories: Missouri, Education, Livestock, Hogs, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Goats & Sheep