Becoming a leader

Leadership development during college is a unique journey that doesn’t follow a straight path. I found that staying true to yourself is crucial; trying to fit in with everyone else often dilutes your unique strengths and passions. On my campus, I made it a point to join clubs that genuinely interested me, even those outside my major. This exposure helped me connect with diverse students and broaden my perspective. One of the most impactful experiences was attending leadership conferences and guest speaker events. These opportunities allowed me to listen to authentic stories from successful leaders and ask questions that fueled my curiosity. Taking notes at these events is key because each experience offers unique insights you won’t get to replay. Getting involved in student organizations by becoming an officer was a game changer. It gave me hands-on leadership experience and taught me how to collaborate with others effectively. I also helped organize community service projects alongside multiple clubs, which not only benefited the community but also strengthened my network and leadership confidence. I highly recommend embracing activities that might seem lower stakes at first, like joining committees or participating in small social events on campus. These provide a safe environment to practice leadership skills and understand campus administration and resources. Plus, attending campus events—even those with perks like free merch or food—can be a simple way to meet like-minded individuals. Lastly, stepping away from devices for brief periods during outdoor activities like hiking or paddle boarding helped me recharge and think creatively. Leadership isn’t just about taking charge but also about grounding yourself and staying connected to your values and nature. Overall, leadership development in college is about becoming authentic, building genuine relationships, and taking initiative in ways that resonate with your passions and community.