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Alena Bates

@alena_bates_

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Welp it was a good one. On to the next adventure!

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This semester came with lessons, growth, and moments that stretched me in every direction. I’m so grateful for the people who stayed close, reminded me who I am, and helped guide me toward becoming the best version of myself, always. There were highs, lows, and everything in between. Here’s a little recap:

• August shift: My parents retired and moved to the Philippines, pushing me into a new level of independence 🌏
• Career curveball: Getting let go from Starbucks and shutting down my store left me uncertain financially and schedule-wise, and forced me to pause and reassess. Constantly missing the amazing coworkers that I considered my family ☕️
•Lows: At this point I felt like I hit rock bottom, where I felt little to no structure in my schedule, financially unstable, burned out, and an endless amount of anxiety if I was worthy of going to vet school or not.
• New beginnings: I got hired at Four Paws Veterinary Center as a veterinary assistant. Every patient case I get to learn, grow, and connect. Surrounded by supportive and loving staff.
•Reconnected with my faith and focused on my personal relationship with God. ✝️
•The waiting game: I got accepted into St. George veterinary school at the age of 20, with an interview coming up soon at U of A 🩺
•Every step of the way, I’ve had an incredible partner by my side supporting me in any way he can. He has been so patient, gentle, and loving even when I felt like my world was crumbling. My absolute rock in my life. Couldn’t be more grateful!

My semester wasn’t perfect or easy but I’m proud of myself for how much I’ve grown in the past 5 months. Excited to start my last semester in a few weeks! 🔆

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The longest and most difficult semester so far but we got there in the end🫠

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missin my camp kids and staff buds a little extra this time around!!

every year FFA camp grows an even bigger place in my heart and reminds me exactly why I chose to pursue leadership. although the week consists of some of the earliest mornings, latest nights, and HARDEST goodbyes I wouldn’t trade the memories for another lifetime! heres to year 4 at the best camp with the best people🫂

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home sweet home☀️
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these last two months are exactly what i needed. from seeing friends and family to going back to my ffa roots, i could not have asked for a better summer! see ya in december, az!

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State FFA camp 2025, made some amazing memories and friends!

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To all of our past state officers, we all greatly appreciate you and love you!!!

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AZ FFA State Leadership Conference 2025! 💫
Its always so satisfying to see a successful conference put on through the hard work of so many people coming together. First Green event and 7 generations of State Vice Presidents! 🤯

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Summit Season was one for the books📚
I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to do the summit series with!!
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p.s. ASCEND is on🔝🔥
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#arizonaffa #summit #ffa #ascend

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Congrats Melia, and Brandon wish you the best, looking forward to seeing all the things you two do!!
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#brother #wedding #family

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Corporate girl summer🗣️🗣️

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