Name: Allison Nunes
FFA Chapter: Turlock FFA Chapter
CDEs and LDEs Participated In: Creed, Impromptu Public Speaking, Prepared Public Speaking, Job Interview, Agricultural Sales, Milk Quality and Products, Fruit Tree Pruning, Cotton Judging, Dairy Judging, Floriculture, and Agriscience Fair
What inspired you to get involved in those specific events?
My biggest inspiration for getting involved in these events were my ag teachers. If it weren’t for their encouragement, I wouldn’t have had the confidence to compete in Creed my freshman year, an experience that sparked my interest in public speaking and led me to participate in even more events. Seeing upperclassmen enjoy their CDEs was also a huge motivator, making me want to join different teams. Additionally, coming from a dairy background, I was naturally drawn to Milk Quality and Products and Dairy Judging, which aligned with my interests and knowledge.
How did your experiences in CDEs and LDEs help shape your career interests?
My experiences in CDEs and LDEs played a huge role in shaping my career path. The competitions exposed me to more advanced skills and different aspects of the trade, which made me realize I could do this as a career. These experiences also helped me develop the work ethic, discipline, and teamwork skills necessary to excel in my role. Additionally, FFA allowed me to learn how to advocate for the dairy industry and agriculture as a whole, broadening my understanding of the industry and reinforcing my passion for ag education and communication.
What does your career in ag education and communication involve?
I’m the Tours and Communications Specialist at Hilmar Cheese Company, where I welcome visitors and help them learn about the cheese-making process and the vital role of the dairy industry in California. I engage with school groups, educators, and consumers daily, providing educational tours and hands-on learning experiences. Beyond the visitor center, I also represent Hilmar Cheese Company at community events, helping to promote dairy education and industry awareness.
What skills did you develop through these events that you still use in your job today?
FFA helped me develop numerous skills that I continue to use in my career, including public speaking, verbal and nonverbal communication, teamwork, time management, leadership, and a strong work ethic. Advancing my public speaking skills through competitions, leadership roles, and judging events directly prepared me for my current job, where I confidently speak in front of groups of 100-200 people during tours. These skills allow me to engage with visitors, coordinate tours, and effectively represent the dairy industry in a professional setting.
Can you share a specific moment from a competition that challenged you and helped you grow?
One defining moment for me was competing in the Creed contest my freshman year. I was hesitant to do it, nervous, and convinced that I wasn’t good enough. My advisor saw potential in me and encouraged me to compete, but I didn't put in as much preparation as I should have. When the competition ended, I realized that it wasn’t as scary as I had imagined and if I had worked harder, I could have performed much better. That moment fueled my determination to push myself, work harder, and fully commit to future competitions. It was the turning point that led me to pursue more public speaking, leadership, and judging events throughout my FFA career.
Looking back, what was the most valuable lesson you took from your participation?
The most valuable lesson I learned was that success comes from hard work and dedication. If you want to achieve something, you have to be willing to put in the effort. I also learned that it’s okay to ask for help. There will always be mentors and teammates ready to support you, and taking advantage of that support can make all the difference.
