Throughout my life, I have been fortunate enough to have
those figures in my life whom I look up to, respect and can depend on for
guidance and encouragement. I would call these people my confidants, friends,
family members and role models, and in their own way, they are all leaders,
whether they realize it or not. I believe that this is what leadership is all
about- positively impacting others around you. Whether it is helping another
person out with homework or volunteering in your community, leadership is about
carrying yourself in a respectful manner and being positive and respectful towards
others. Leadership is about stepping forward from the crowd and leading your
own path, not following. Leadership is about speaking up for what you believe
in, even if you are alone. Leadership is being confident and passionate, and
having enjoyment in influencing change.
With these beliefs, I was curious as to how my experience would
be at Loyola’s Student Leadership Institute conference. I was eager to learn
new things about leadership and how I could apply my new knowledge to my future
efforts in leadership. I have to say that I definitely enjoyed myself. I was
able to network and meet amazing new people who are passionate about various
subjects and have impressive plans as to how they will make their mark in the
community. I was truly inspired and motivated to search deeper within myself to
discover and develop my own passions and desires.
The workshops I attended were also great, especially “Beginning
with Myself to Change the World.” This particular workshop really hit home for
me, as it spoke to the group about how it is important to make sure that you
focus on taking care of yourself and living a balanced life before you put tons
of energy into reaching out to others. These points definitely resonated with
me, as I have often times found myself putting so much effort and energy into
helping others that I do not always take the necessary steps to care for
myself. However, the workshop taught me that leadership starts with yourself,
as you have to make sure that you are happy and healthy, investing in
self-care, because when you take the time to help yourself, you then have a
strong and stable source from which to help others.
In regards to STARS LEAD, I hope to improve my leadership
abilities and not only teach my mentee new things, but to learn from my mentee
as well. I truly hope that through my encouragement, guidance and tutoring, I
will inspire my mentee and create a relationship and experience that will
positively influence their future.
