Pick something you're passionate about—whether it's animal care, horticulture, mechanics, ag business, or environmental science.
Tie your SAE to a career pathway in your ag class or future profession.
Begin your SAE project in 9th or 10th grade to allow for multiple years of data, growth, and reflection.
Consistency over time is a key indicator of a top-tier SAE.
Use AET (Agricultural Experience Tracker) consistently for time, finances, skills, and journal entries.
Top-tier SAEs show precise tracking of labor hours, income, expenses, and skill development.
Show that your project expands each year: more animals, increased customer base, higher profits, improved methods, or new equipment.
Document how you’ve added responsibilities or changed your approach based on learning.
Participate in a CDE or LDE that aligns with your SAE.
Share your SAE through a fair booth, chapter presentation, or ag literacy day.
Apply for FFA Proficiency Awards in your area (ex: Diversified Livestock, Agriscience Research, Ag Mechanics Repair and Maintenance).
Include soft skills: communication with clients, recordkeeping, project management, and time budgeting.
Take leadership roles in your chapter or community related to your SAE (e.g., lead a workshop, train others, mentor younger members).
Plan a project or outreach initiative that benefits your school or community.
Examples: Building raised beds for a school garden, running a composting program, educating elementary students, or donating eggs/produce.
Earn industry-recognized certifications related to your SAE (e.g., Georgia Ag Ed Certifications, Private Pesticide Applicator, ServSafe, Animal Science pathways).
Compete for state and national proficiency awards or apply for the State Degree.
Maintain a visual timeline of your work (photos, videos, etc.).
Reflect often on what you learned, what went well, and what you’d improve.
Partner with an industry professional or teacher to gain real-world insight.
Attend local events, job-shadow, or intern to add credibility and depth to your project.
Email your agriculture teacher!
Mr. Hembree - cole.hembree@gcpsk12.org
Dr. Settles Livers - carrie.settles.livers@gcpsk12.org