18 Principles of Floral Design Beyond high school, programs in fl oral design are offered at the junior and community college level with an associate’s degree or certifi cate of completion. Basic principles are strengthened with an in-depth view into areas of focus, such as bridal designs or sympathy designs. At the four-year university level, students can receive a bachelor’s degree. Depending on the university’s curriculum, a degree may be available in fi ne arts (bachelor of fi ne arts, or B.F.A.), fl oral management, or fl oral design. Because fl oral design is a hands-on occupation, both practical and theoretical coursework is required. Student Organizations The National FFA Organization focuses on preparing students for leadership, personal growth, and career success. The FFA offers many opportunities for students interested in fl oriculture and fl oral design to strengthen their skills and gain relevant experience. A major component of the FFA is the supervised agricultural experience (SAE). An SAE is a student-led project that involves hands-on learning. An SAE takes place outside of the classroom and helps students develop real-world skills. There are two SAE levels: foundational and immersion. Students often begin with a foundational SAE, which involves exploring a career of interest and gaining knowledge and experience in that career area. For instance, a student may job shadow a fl oral designer at a local fl ower shop. Immersion SAEs provide more in-depth experience in specifi c areas and prepare students for their chosen career. Students develop a project in one of the following areas: • Entrepreneurship/ownership. • Placement/internship. • Research (experimental, analytical, invention). • School business enterprise. • Service learning. For example, a student may develop and run a business growing and selling fl owers as an entrepreneurship SAE. There are many possibilities for students to pursue their interests and gain work experience through SAEs. Another component of the FFA is career development events (CDEs). Participation in CDEs provides opportunities for self-assessment and strengthens skills. CDE team leaders can develop planning, communication, and critical thinking skills while helping teammates work together effectively. The fl oriculture CDE is a four-person team event that includes identifying plants and equipment, creating and evaluating fl oral arrangements, and creating fl oral products for sale. In addition, team members may complete a problem-solving exercise and a mock job interview. Competitions One of the best ways to become a better designer is through practice. Showing your work in competitions provides you with an opportunity to practice, design, compose, and produce arrangements that help you grow and refi ne your skills. Participating in competitions also offers you the opportunity to analyze your own design skills as well as those of your peers. As you study Pro Tip Silence your cell phone before your event begins. Do not use your phone during a competition because it suggests dishonesty and is unprofessional. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.