As someone who has been involved in a variety of teams, clubs, and organizations from childhood, I have held varying leadership positions from sports captain to president of an organization. Each of these experiences, whether more hands on or laid back, have taught me valuable lessons about the different degrees and ways to handle being a leader. However, I have found that the one common theme I exhibit across all roles is being encouraging and involved with the project/outcome/team. I always make the effort to get to know all of my team members and ensure that we are working as a cohesive unit.

One of my first experiences as a team leader was as a 13 year old, when I was captain of my middle school basketball team. Although relatively insignificant, this role taught me so much about how to manage a team and maintain relationships, and has served as the foundation for my leadership style now as a college student. Two of our best players had been fighting throughout the season, for both personal and basketball related reasons. At the end of a practice in the middle of our season, this culminated in a shouting match, and one of the girls quitting, which was incredibly detrimental for our team’s playoff chances. I went to talk to each girl individually to listen to their experience and issues, and then went on to resolve their altercation so that our team was able to finish the season with both girls. At the end of the season, I was awarded with the Coach’s Award for my sportsmanship and ability to connect and motivate all of my teammates. I learned how to be a clear communicator and how to mitigate and resolve conflicts.

I am motivated by human connection and the ability to learn. In all situations, whether personal, academic, or professional, I love being surrounded by people. One of the main things that I look forward to is spending time with people I care about. I also love to get to know new people and learn about their interests, backgrounds, and pursuits. In organizations, I always make the effort to get to know the people around me and their visions for the organization and community. Additionally, I love to learn. This ranges from learning about other people and their interests to academic knowledge and application. I hope that I am able to continue my appreciation for acquiring knowledge, regardless of significance, for the rest of my life. In leadership positions, this looks like me both getting to know people, and also doing research for the best outcome for our team and our path.

My expectations are that everyone fulfills their respective duties and responsibilities, and treats everyone with respect. I can understand that people have various priorities and other situations in their life that demand attention, but clear communication is paramount. For myself, I must do the same, as well as doing the research necessary to make sure I am being the best leader possible. I would define success as personal fulfillment, which can vary depending on circumstances. In a leadership position, I would see it as working together as a team to complete whatever our shared objective is. As a LEAD Scholar, I have learned important lessons about how to be an effective leader by integrating oneself, and also when to take a step back. When in an organization, such as LEAD scholars, with many proficient, capable leaders, there cannot always be 30 students fighting for the same top role. I have been able to recognize when I would do better in the backseat, fulfilling my duty and supporting the main drivers behind an objective.

When applied to the social change model, I make sure to incorporate aspects of commitment, common purpose, collaboration, and citizenship for the entire team. When focusing on myself, I always try to avoid cognitive dissonance, and aim for congruence, while also being conscious of myself and my perspectives. While this is easier said than done, it is helpful to reflect on my experiences and inner thoughts when feeling conflicted. Overall, as a leader, I make the effort to get along with all members of my team and to do additional research and work to bring my team together, focused on a common objective.