I'll never forget the day that I received my introductory letter to "Saddle and Sirloin" in the mail prior to my freshman college orientation. Opening the letter, I turned to my mom (who graduated from NDSU), and asked her what the heck "S&S" even meant. She explained it to me about their involvement with livestock, and the importance of all of their annual events. I threw my letter down, thinking there is no way this city girl was ever joining that organization! Well, never say never.
Since officially arriving on campus a few years ago, I am still amazed by the events sponsored by Saddle and Sirloin throughout the academic year. This particular organization is one the largest on campus, and participates in a minimum of ten events annually. These club activities include themed dances for their members, hosting a student-run livestock show, fundraisers and opportunities to teach children of all ages about agriculture programs. One of these events is known as Kiddie Days. Saddle and Sirloin are affiliated with Block and Bridle (their national counterpart) which members attend annual national conventions. Members also are involved in annual competitions with another campus to our south, SDSU in Brookings, South Dakota.
Saddle and Sirloin is actively involved in philanthropic events, such as last spring when they hosted a "dunk tank" to raise funds for Relay For Life. They also put on an event known as "Paddy Drop Raffle". Shepperd Arena is an indoor arena campus, which is where the organization has their weekly meetings and campus events, is measured into a grid, which then students can purchase a "tile" of the arena. The funds collected through student tickets are then donated to an organization of Saddle and Sirloin's choice. Eventually, a cow enters the arena and when it comes time for the cow to do its duty... then wherever the cow "dumps" on the tile, that student wins a cash prize. This is an excellent way to raise money for a cause, involve the student body on campus, and share great fun with the organization
Little International, Little Personal
One of the most popular events that Saddle and Sirloin annually hosts, is their student-sponsored livestock shown know as Little International, or Little I for short. Students from any major and any background (whether you grew up on a farm, or a city) are able to participate in the festivities. Students can show cattle, sheep, pigs and cure a ham - all while earning credits for agriculture. This past weekend, campus celebrated the 90th Little International, which happens to be one of the longest running traditions at NDSU.
"Little I" includes two livestock shows for students to show off their hard work; one Saturday morning and one Saturday evening, followed by a banquet and large celebration.
For some students, participating in a livestock show is very natural and routine. For others (such as myself) Little I was challenging, and put me far outside of my comfort zone. While it was an an incredible learning opportunity, it was overwhelming since I knew nothing about working/showing sheep. Going into Little I with no knowledge was scary, and I was also extremely naive. I signed up for a breed of sheep, known as a Columbia (apparently supposed to be easy) and I honestly expected to walk into the arena and meet my innocent baby lamb.
NOPE. Not even close.
Instead I was introduced to a full-grown female sheep, known as an ewe, which I then named Lola. Lola at first was very sassy and strong-wild, but then I quickly remembered that I am too - and each day, things got better and easier, and we both grew to be more comfortable with each other.
This experience opened my eyes to a world that I had never known before. I have so much more respect than I already did for my fellow peers who can sheer a sheep in under two hours, while it took me two days! I will be forever grateful to the students who helped me with technique, and who helped me better understand and connect with the animals. I am also so grateful for my "student focused, land grant, research university" which allows students to use the research animals for no cost.
Growing up in an urban environment had its perks; great food, close to the mall and frequent concerts and events close by, big schools etc. But the grass in the case IS greener on the other side. I wish that I had been given or grown up with opportunities to be surrounded by animals and agriculture on a regular basis like so many of my fellow students. The only time that I ever went to see livestock was once a year at the State Fair. Looking back now, I wish I had never "written off" Saddle and Sirloin before I had even given the organization and its members a chance - because it is an outstanding organization, with truly inspiring members who inhabit a passion for agriculture. I may not miss smelling like a sheep every day, but I sure do miss Lola and the friends that I met. I will forever cherish the experience, and always respect those who respect and honor agriculture.
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