By: Edwina Chen/ December 2025

Recently in life I have had many moments of déjà vu. This is a feeling of already experiencing something new. Apparently, after a quick google search it meant that there is something wrong with my brain. However, deja vu or not I know for sure that there are some moments that feel extra familiar for a reason–not because there is a malfunction in my brain. 

I want to share with y’all a moment that took place this summer. For me, summer time as a state officer meant, the Delaware State Fair, State Officer Summit, and Mini COLTs (chapter officer leadership training). Personally, I am a huge fan of Mini COLTs, it’s the perfect opportunity to interact with members unrushed, and get to see a glimpse of their lives outside of the blue jacket. One chapter visit hit home this year. 

This chapter is the farthest away from home, yet I realized that I go visit them more than my home chapter! Laurel HS FFA thank you for always being a wonderful group to work with and get to know–it truly was a full circle moment for me when I facilitated their Mini COLT for the second time. 

It wasn’t just their eagerness to participate in every activity presented to them, it was their eagerness to also bring forth their most authentic selves, and engage in conversations both silly and serious.  As a state officer sometimes you always feel like you have to present yourself with the most poise, and always know the right things to say at the right times. Yet, realistically it’s so emotionally draining to always strive to fit into the perfect cookie cutter state officer.

That is why I am so grateful for full circle moments like the ones I shared with Laurel FFA. I remember the imperfect conversation I shared with some senior members about their futures. I remember the laughter I shared with them during the Mini COLT I facilitated during my first term. Then I had the opportunity to watch the team I helped prepare to retire and then saw the election of the new team. By the time I facilitated the Mini COLT for the 25-26 school year, I realized the beauty of full circle moments. 

You really don’t realize the long-term impact you create until you sit back and unravel the whole time line. It is amazing to realize that when we are creating our own unique stories, we are also a part of the stories of so many others in this world. So I urge us all to take the time to reflect and acknowledge the full circle moments in our lives. Let those memories be a sign for us all to continue to connect and make an impact!

Here to remind you that you are impactful and so worthy,

Edwina Chen

2025-2026 Delaware FFA State Vice President