Melody Rodriguez-Capellan

How did you get involved in campus life? What advice would you give to students who haven’t yet found their place on campus?
I got involved in campus life at Club Kickoff my freshman year. I joined the Cheer Team alongside other clubs on campus. Into my second semester as a first-year student, my professor extended the invitation to become an Orientation Leader. This was the start to many of my leadership roles on and off campus. From that role, I have been a tour guide, a Zeemee Influencer, a peer mentor with the first-year seminar program, and volunteer for campus events.

My advice to students who have yet found their “people/place” is do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Whether that means asking someone to join them eating lunch, joining a club’s weekly meeting, or apply for a role on campus, all of these actions open doors to endless opportunities.

How do you think you’ve changed as a leader throughout your time at WSU, and what aspects of your experience most influenced this change?
When I first came to ӣ����Ƶ, I believed that leadership meant having the right answers and doing everything well. Starting college at sixteen made me feel as if I had something to prove, and I focused on being prepared. However, this mindset made me realize that leadership is not about standing out; it is about standing with others. I learned quickly that instead of leading by control, I lead by example and encouragement. It is not about being the strongest voice in the room; it is all about making sure everyone else feels confident using their voice.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned when it comes to leadership?
The biggest lesson I have learned about leadership is that is leadership is not always the definition you find in the dictionary. Leadership is truly about how you show up in different roles and for different people. It is not about the highest position you hold, or the authority you have over others, but about supporting those around you, creating spaces where people feel welcomed and heard, and being a meaningful part of a team.

What would you say has been your best experience here at WSU?
One of my best experiences at ӣ����Ƶ so far has been speaking up at the Fall 2025 Open House, not once, but twice. Both times, I was able to show my involvement across campus, my personal journey, and how ӣ����Ƶ has positively impacted my growth in both my professional and personal life. This was meaningful to me, as not only was I able to represent the university but also inspire prospective students the endless opportunities each student can have across campus.

What advice would you give to students who are just beginning to explore the type of leader, or the type of person, they hope to become?
My advice to students who are just beginning to explore the type of leader/ person they want to become is to get involved and say yes to the opportunities offered on campus. Apply for leadership programs, attend workshops and step into the leadership roles, even when you do not feel 100% ready. Every opportunity is an open door to experiences that shape your growth and impact on and off campus.

What are your current plans for the next few years?
My plans after graduation are to launch a brick-and-mortar location for Mel’s Bakery, a fast-casual dessert concept designed for customers looking to grab high-quality sweet treats late at night. The first location will serve as the foundation for building a both recognizable and trusted brand. As Mel’s Bakery grows, I plan to expand into multiple locations and eventually franchise the business, allowing the brand to reach new communities and develop into a global dessert destination for all to enjoy.

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Becky Maher
Class of 2025

“Anyone can be a leader; it’s all about stepping up and inspiring others to do good. The characteristics that define me as an individual are deeply reflected in my leadership style. I value close relationships, always trying to build meaningful connections with those around me. I believe in the potential of every person, focusing on their strengths and constantly working to lift them up. I put myself in others’ shoes, to understand their perspectives and emotions.

Being a leader is not about being superior to others; it’s about serving as a source of inspiration, encouraging others to be their best selves. Leadership is a responsibility that requires guidance and mutual respect. I believe in keeping a positive attitude in hopes that it is contagious, as my goal is to create an atmosphere where optimism thrives. Ultimately, being a leader is about setting a strong example, knowing your actions influence those around you. By leading with integrity, compassion and enthusiasm, I aim to empower others to realize their full potential.”

Claire Rondeau
Class of 2026

“Leaders should be the backbone of their groups, role models, and positive influencers- this can all be measured through productivity and effectiveness. Everyone has a part to play, and leaders help people learn how to play their part well. Leaders help individuals grow in their role by showing empathy, and being supportive, compassionate, and caring. 

I value dependability, mutual trust, a sense of purposefulness, and productivity. I’m a dependable and responsible person, and I expect the same from others. My personal values include honesty, communication, dependability ( showing up for someone ), and empathy ( putting yourself in another person’s shoes ). As highly as I value these traits, I would not expect them from someone else if I wasn’t already demonstrating those qualities to the people around me. Through this program I have found that I have a need to contribute, encourage, care for, and empathize with others. I like to work with others to build relationships, motivate, connect and prioritize growth within the group. 

My strengths include relationship building and discipline. I’ve learned that through learning about people, relating to them on an interpersonal level, recognizing their potential, and through showing empathy I am able to relate to people and grow connections. As a leader, these skills alongside creating structure and keeping organized help me to work with individuals and keep everything in line. One of my other themes mentioned, strategic, helps when things don’t go according to plan. One downfall of being structured and organized is that when something goes differently than expected, being strategic and keeping other options in mind can help reorient the task at hand. The strength that makes me such a strong leader is discipline. Being a planner, coordinating times and events, and dependability help me lead the group in the direction best fit for those individuals. Discipline helps me to stay organized, while also giving me the opportunity to help others to organize their lives.   

My goal in my leadership position is to support others through offering guidance and support, to make them feel more comfortable and confident in their roles. I have this goal with the hope that the results would show a more comfortable and tight knit community where everyone can depend on one another. I want to work to grow other people’s confidence through experience so that if they are recommended for a leadership position they can accept it and feel confident in their own abilities.”

Maxwell Passarelli
Class of 2026

“Throughout my time at Worcester State and as a student in general I have learned incressly more about my personal leadership style. I consider myself a well informed leader. I try to fully understand whatever issues and group dynamics are present before addressing them. This includes asking questions or just listening. The ability to listen is such an undervalued skill in today’s world. In my time working at The Overlook (my part time job) I have encountered many challenges that can be solved by just hearing people out. Listening is important, but it is just as important to have the courage to act on this new knowledge. I feel I do this well.”

We would also like to congratulate Brandol Ogando-Saladin, Eduarda Luiza Braga, John Beford, Kody Osborne, Maria Delia, Riley Flipp, and Sarahie Pierre!

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Emma Davis
Class of 2024

“After reflecting on my leadership philosophy from Emerge, I decided that it needed one major change.  In my initial philosophy I talked about my time as a  track and field coach where I was able to give one of the members of my team the confidence to join in our activities when all she needed was a push from her leader.  I said that I wanted to be a resource for people who are too scared to reach out for help by giving them the guidance and support they need to be successful.  The part of my original philosophy thatI would like to change is the fact that Iit is not only the leader of the team that is capable of accomplishing this goal.  All members of a team can check in with each other to make sure that everyone has the capability to succeed.  As a leader, it is important to remind your team that they are there to support their teammates if they start to fall behind , or lack the confidence to finish a task.  Asking for help can be difficult for many people, so creating an environment where they do not feel judged or inferior when asking for help is extremely important in pushing people to their full potential.  One of the main takeaways that I have learned from Engage is that everyone had different set of strengths that allow them to bring value to a team, and combining these strengths can make it much more successful in the end. My goal as a leader is to lead with integrity while fostering these traits in the members of my team.“

Eve Donatelli
Class of 2026

“The core to being a leader is feeling the need to help others, and acting on that need. The most important thing in any decision you make as a leader is that you have good intentions behind everything you do. Your community may not agree with everything you do, and that’s okay. Different parts of you will present as a role model to different people to create a diverse team. And as we have learned, leadership has just as much to do with working as a team as it does leading one.

A key point to anything is good communication. Upcoming problems, events, and situations can usually be solved through proper and effective communication. Not every issue can be solved with conversation, and a leader knows when to communicate, and when to stay silent. Language is everything.

Mistakes may and will be made. Leadership is a learning process in itself, and all leaders are students to the philosophy of life. If you are willing to commit to learning everyday and use that knowledge to step forward and help others, taking criticism and appreciation, through breakthroughs and mistakes, fighting fear with bravery, then you are a leader. Do not take this role lightly, as no matter what kind of situation it is, a team is only as strong and serious as its leader.

As an aspiring leader myself, I hope to listen to my own advice and do my best to assist others. I have and will grow from my experiences and work with others to achieve a successful outcome. I cannot wait to help make the world a better place, whether it is just one life at a time, or many.“

Celia Germain
Class of 2024

“Being a leader is not necessarily defined by our comfort to speak in front of a group or to show the world our own accomplishments. Being a leader is defined by showing hard work and attempting to lead by example. Putting in time, effort, patience, and care can impact the people we surround ourselves with much more than any other calculated attempts at leading. Personally, my leadership abilities are best defined by my ability to listen carefully to my peers, to digest what they are saying to better understand each perspective brought to the table. Playing to the strengths of others is vital to creating a successful team, our world is diverse and our leadership styles should reflect that. Show the world kindness and compassion to better lead. Be patient and be a good listener. Leading is about observation as much as it is about participation.”

Kelsey Harris
Class of 2025

“Here I am again writing a guiding poem about leadership.
This timeI’ve got a few new tools for my belt I need to equip.
Emerge was amateur hour,
Engage is where you start to embrace your own power.
Here are some tips to ensure that the thought of leadership doesn’t make you cower.

Understand that others have different qualifications.
With this, it is crucial to make unique correlations.
Most of all, you need patience.
We all have distinct experiences and beliefs despite our shared relations.

Let your words flow like butter.
Wait a second, did I stutter?
No, because leaders can carry a crowd and be proud.
Just know if you’re not there yet, one day you’ll speak loud
And others will make you feel renowned.

Know your leadership place.
Taking a septa back can be hard to face.
However, we all need a break to delegate.
This hill takes many brave souls to embrace and dictate. 

Know that you’re not the boss,
Leadership is a shared responsibility almost as perfect as Rachel and Ross.
When we come together we become enriched
Faster than a light can be switched.

Remember your roots,
Once you lose sight of your values, you ability to lead will rot like fruit.
We are not all the same.
We all have different beliefs to reclaim.
Be true to your name.

If there is anything to take away from what  I have to say,
Don’t lose sight of yourself today.
We are leaders who did not come here to play.
Instead, we will rise like smoke that is grey.
None of us have all the guiding answers, and that’s okay.
I know that this might sound cliche,
But walk the walk and slay.
For you become a better leader day by day.

You set your own limit,
So make every action count, every minute.”

Vina Le
Class of 2024

“I found myself in a very vulnerable position last year during Emerge. I was burned out, exhausted, and struggling to figure out my place at Worcester State. Will I continue to be like this next year? Who am I if I don’t push myself to the limit? Am I enough if I don’t push myself to the limit? I came to the conclusion then that even though I found a lot of happiness in my group and our mission, I can’t continue on if it meant destroying myself. To be a leader, you must understand your limits, and that growing doesn’t mean destroying your own boundaries, they’re there for a reason. Being a leader doesn’t mean that you’re by yourself or have to take on everything, it means letting yourself be open towards help from others and having the ability to trust that they won’t let you down. It means being proud of and growing your strengths and not just being hung up on your shortcomings. 

As a leader, I will continue spreading empathy in order to connect and restore the communities in my life. I will try my best to help people in my own style , instead of pretending that every problem can be solved the same way. I will be open to help from others and receiving criticism in order to become the best leader I can be. I will work hard to educate myself in order to better understand the community we live in and how to make it a more equal and accepting place, while also nurturing myself.“

Zachary Trudell
Class of 2024

“Throughout my time as a leader, as a collaborator, and as someone who takes on the role of bringing a bunch of unique people towards a common goal, I have learned quite a few important things about the person I am and the person I strive to be. Since Emerge, I have been both the cause of failure and the catalyst for success for multiple goals and events, and I have found myself in a unique position where I both loathe my own failure and yet glorify and appreciate it all the same for everything that I learned from it. It can be a heavy burden having so many people rely on you – so many people that look to you for guidance and support. And yet all the same, even when you hold such a high, prestigious role as a leader, you still have to realize that at the end of the day you are not the only cog in this machine. What I have learned as a leader is that a leader is only as strong as the people behind them. The best of leaders have a group that helps them and makes sure that everything can run smoothly.

Sometimes leadership stems from circumstance; from necessity. When a leader is needed, someone will rise to the occasion and answer the call. Someone will do whatever they can to make sure that something happens, or else the group will cease whatever it is they are trying to do. The word leader really does feel like an umbrella term. A leader could be someone who gives a single command to a single person. A leader could bring together a small group or multiple groups. A leader could lead a large group – a massive group – a group that is important and whose results are important. Or a leader could simply be someone who decides they will take the first step. The same word that is used to describe the President of The United States is also used to describe the elementary school child at the front of a line. The same word that is used to describe a military general or the CEO of a Fortune 500 company is also used to describe a normal, everyday person that rose to the occasion and did something that was needed regardless of the perceived importance of it. And yet, throughout all of these different circumstances, these different responsibilities, and the variability of the importance and implications of the outcomes, all leaders share similar traits and similar things which I feel allow them to all stand under the umbrella which is the term leader.

I knew of certain strengths and weaknesses that I possessed as a person: the positives and negatives, the pros and cons, the shortcomings and successes of my character, these were all amplified anytime I took on the role of leader. It is easy to count your blessings and take note of the strong parts of your character, but it is more difficult, although in my opinion just as important, to take note of your weaker traits and to make sure that you understand where the most beneficial of improvements could be made. That is not to say though, of course, that having flaws is necessarily bad. I feel that the most important thing to remember about anyleader is that they are, at the end of the day, human. No one is perfect, and therefore no leader ought to be expected to be so. Striving for perfection never hurt anyone, but focusing on honing your own perfection might just begin to overshadow your goals as a leader and your ability to play that role. The leader, then, ought not to expect perfection in themselves lest they let this unattainable goal get in the way of what is really important, which is leading to the best of their human ability and doing what is needed.

That phrase: “doing what is needed.” That is another one which gets thrown around. I don’t believe that just anyone can be a successful leader. However, I do believe that is successful leader can come from anywhere and be just about anyone. Whoever is capable of, ready, and willing to do what is needed – anyone like that could be a successful leader. There is no one single trait that makes one person or another more or less capable of leading, just simply inclined towards different ways of doing it. As they say, “there’s more than one way to skin a cat” “there’s more than one way to cook an egg.” Regardless of your preferred way, there is no right or wrong. There is only what works and what doesn’t. And unfortunately, you have to fail sometimes in order to learn that. Do not be afraid of failure. Be open to it and let it teach you a lesson so that you can come back and do it better. No one wants to fail, but when you inevitably make a mistake, make sure you at least know why and come back better. I believe that, as a leader, that is the most important thing to remember.“

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Class of 2023, Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health Services, minor in Public Health
Hometown | Shrewsbury, MA
Campus Involvement | Student Senate, Women’s Cross Country Team, Women’s Track Team, 2023 Class Committee, Resident Assistant, Circles of Leadership, Orientation Leader

Erica Hanlon, SGA President

Can you describe the role of the SGA President? What do they do for the student body
The SGA President collaborates with the student senate and the rest of the student body to represent our student population and advocate for student needs. The SGA President attends various meetings with administration, alumni, and students to be a voice for the student body.

What are some of the goals you hope to accomplish while in this position?
One of my goals is to add a new aspect to the student senate in which each senator will have a focus group on campus to receive feedback from and offer support to. Another goal I have is to increase community outreach through creating opportunities for students to donate to and support the greater Worcester area. Overall, I aim to be an approachable and helpful person for all WSU students.

What do you foresee as some of the challenges you could face in this position?
A challenge I foresee in this position is not being able to please everyone, as there will be many different opinions among our student body, and I will need to do my best to represent as many students as possible as well as my own beliefs.

At the end of the year, looking back, what do you hope your fellow students remember about you?
At the end of the year, I hope my fellow students will remember me as someone who was genuine, welcoming, helpful, and action-oriented.

What advice would you give to students who are just beginning to explore the type of leader, or the type of person, they hope to become?
My key piece of advice is to push yourself to follow what interests you regardless of anyone else’s opinion. If you are thinking about trying something new or stepping up to be in a leadership position, just try for it! No one is judging you and any endeavor for your own personal growth is well worth any potential nerves.

What are your current plans for the next few years?
After graduation, I hope to work as a Resident Director at a university while taking graduate classes for my Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. I also hope to adopt a dog and travel

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Grace Adams
Class of 2024

“At the core of every human being lies their sense of humor, regardless of if it is good or not, and it is nearly impossible to say that laughter does not act as a natural pick-me-up. With that being said, humor not only lies in my core, but also within the way I view leadership, as well as life. An important aspect to being any type of leader is the ability to develop some sort of connection with individuals, while also opening them up to new ideas and perspectives. This idea also goes in the opposite direction, where leaders are open minded and altering their own perspectives. Humor ties into the development of connectivity between leaders and those around them by acting as a bridge, linking the two together. A sense of humor can also be thought of as a form of creativity, another other important value in my leadership ideology. A world without creativity is a world that always follows the rule of “coloring within the lines;” however, a leader that fosters an environment that goes beyond those lines often brings out passion, innovation, and most importantly the creativity of others. The act of coloring outside the lines does not necessarily mean to break the rules, whereas it means to go beyond what was considered the only way to do or view something. The final value that springs from the connection created by humor is authenticity, where the relationship between leaders and individuals is easy-going, genuine, but professional all at the same time. My leadership philosophy is characterized by these values, and by embracing the innate qualities, such as humor, creativity, and authenticity, relationships are created, regardless of if that relationship’s foundation is the laughter shared between two individuals.”

Ashley Barratt
Class of 2022

“Wow, it’s getting to that time where I have to be a real adult. Man, who would’ve known that you could close your eyes one day and then wake up in a time four years later being months away from shaking good ole Barry’s hand for my diploma. Definitely not this 5 foot 4 mediocre athlete with an aspiration to become a nurse. At this point, it's not even an aspiration, it’s going to happen. I am months away from starting my first nursing class, but it doesn’t stop there. I’m probably less than 3 years away from being settled into my own place. I could never do all of this on my own, or could I? Becoming a leader isn’t just about taking on a group of people and mentoring them. Becoming a leader isn’t about being the most mature one of them all. Becoming a leader is certainly not about being the oldest and the wisest among others. Becoming a leader is about being able to step up to the plate with confidence. Becoming a leader is being able to look at something you have done and say “I did that!”, and I don’t mean the gas prices. Being a leader is the ability to have enough confidence in yourself to see that you are able to achieve something and gain the acceptance that it comes from you. Most importantly of all, being a leader is about being yourself. You don’t need to be someone like MLK to be amazing, never let a single person tell you differently.”

Amanda Brodeur
Class of 2022

“No two people in this room can define the term leader in the exact same way. You see, our definition to this broad term develops from our experiences, our challenges, and our perspectives on the world. While this may be true, there are so many words that one can use to differentiate it from a follower, yet all of them mean the same thing in one way or another. How is it that we know what those words mean so well, yet we cannot give the verbatim definition?

So, the question lies, what is a leader? What does it take to become a leader? Am I a leader, and if so, am I a good one? To answer this bundle of questions in one small swoop, I am a leader. I possess qualities and strengths that no other person around shares to the exact extent as mine. I persevere, I watch, I judge, and I change. I am not always the first to throw out an idea, but if it is in my field of interest I will fight to be heard. I am quiet, but my mind stays loud, throwing out ideas, information, anything of use to battle the task at hand. I am different, and that is okay. I add humor to situations that most often don’t need them, I sit back and listen to those that beg to be heard. I bring support and confidence to whoever in my team is lacking it and strive to have everybody on the same page of whichever chapter we land on. I will always stand as an ally for those around me.

So..yes, I am a leader. But I am more than that. I am a great leader, a passionate leader, and one who strives to inspire the other leaders around me, whether present or future.”

Briana Chang
Class of 2023

“Being a leader has different meanings to every individual. As I am writing this revised version of my leadership philosophy, I took the time to reflect on my past leadership philosophy. As I was reading the paper, I highlighted the points that I wanted to relay. Key points like leaders are imperfect humans. Leaders are able to take charge of situations to solve any problems that arise. They are able to generate a positive environment that encourages growth. Ensuring that all are heard, and none are neglected. These key points are essentially the pillars to my leadership philosophy. The pillars of my leadership philosophy allow me to create a trusting relationship between by coworkers and clients. As a leader, one constantly learns, grows, end evolves to become better. Within the past semester, I can stand here and genuinely say that I have evolved past where I was when I originally wrote my first leadership philosophy. I have started to alter my attention from strictly those around me to now include myself in view. I never took into consideration how I was dealing with all my own responsibilities until this point. Everything that I normally did somehow holds additional weight within this semester forcing me to take a slight decrease on my leadership roles. If I was a leader that couldn’t adapt to new situations and environment, then I would never progress to my full potential. Within this academic year alone, I have taken a giant step in changing how I was a leader from fall semester to now. I have taken a step back from being a hands-on leader to being a leader that those can reply on when they need help. No longer being the teacher, but now more of an observer. My alterations as a leader have even caught the attention of my coworkers that know me well. Worried that I am upset with them since I was less vocal when instead I was simply giving them space to do their own thing. No longer delegating tasks like I was in training but catching the items that were overlooked. Majority of my coworkers have only been exposed to me as a hands-on as a leader, but that was only because I was placed within that position. When I had to be there to physically train people. That type of just being there to work and catch anything that may have been forgotten. I only do this with coworkers that are comfortable to take more incentive and it confused them. I had to explain that I was in no means upset and was just leading from a different aspect than normal. My leadership pillars may be different than your own. Which is amazing. There is no correct way to be a leader. Everyone and anyone can be a leader in their own way. I have been able to see this within every one of you here today. Majority of us have been together for a year and I can say that I have genuinely learned from each and every one of you. You all have your own individual way of leading whether it be right away or after trial and error. We are all leaders when we needed. Coming together to work as one and listening to one another. Knowing the best time to come forth while also knowing the best time to stand back and let someone else take control. I love being able to see everyone’s individual strengths come into play weekly. Allowing me to gain different viewpoints and learn additional strategies that I can implement into my own leadership philosophy. I plan to only have my leadership philosophy to continue to evolve just as grow as a human.”

Caitlin Kincaid
Class of 2023

“Leadership is defined as “the action of leading a group of people or an organization and being in the state or position of being a leader.” Everyone for the most part knows what some aspect of leadership is, and if I asked, we could list off names of individuals we would consider to be leaders; the majority of that list would include individuals who have already gained their position or have already achieved or accomplished something. Personally, I think that far too often we view leadership skills as something someone either has or doesn’t; and as something that is achieved. This quote from John Maxwell encompasses what I mean by this, he said “Leadership is not about the titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.” For me, impacting others and the community I am apart is the key principle of why I consider myself a leader; and I think it is also the most predominant aspect of leadership in addition to personal development.

Since I was young whenever someone would ask me what I wanted to do in the future, I would always answer “I’m not really sure but I know that I want to be in a position where I can help others.” For so long, I thought that I needed a career to live up to this purpose of positively impact others; it was not until recently where I realized that I’m already doing this in my everyday life. Living in this truth has made me realize that I am constantly impacting others even in the smallest ways that I have taken for granted in the past. In short, this improved sense of purpose and passion has not only improved my capabilities to show up as a leader, but also as a sister, friend, a student, and most importantly for myself.

So yes, I think that the leadership skills of effective communication, active listening, vulnerability, self- awareness, humility, integrity, vision, authenticity, as well as values of inclusion and diversity are all critical to be an effective leader. But like the popular saying says, “you cannot pour from an empty cup”, and when you fill up your own cup and own your greatness you impact others in the process. At the end of the day, it all starts with you.”

Michael Letendre
Class of 2023

“I wasn’t always the person you see here today. Back in High School and leading up to my first year at Worcester State, I’ve always been one of the quiet and kind of awkward guys; someone who wasn’t involved in a whole lot – only a few things here and there. It wasn’t until my sophomore year that I decided to do something about this, using the skills and experiences I gained from my past and building on them to break the ice some more. In just over a year, through starting my own club, being an Orientation Leader, and being a role model for the freshman as an RA, I have grown tremendously and have put myself out there more than I have ever been before. I am not the person I was before.

Fast forward to today: Every leader faces some kind of challenge in their lives, whether it be managing your time or making tough decisions. Decision making is one of the skills that I believe a leader should possess. It really isn’t the easiest thing in the world to do depending on the situation. However, you can get a lot better at it by looking at their pros/cons, advantages/disadvantages, and at the reason for having to make the decision. What is going to benefit us in the long run? What do I feel is the right choice to make?

Peter Parker once said “It’s the choices that make us who we are, and we can always choose to do what’s right.” It doesn’t mean you have to like or agree with the choice you made. We have the ability to make the choice that we feel is the right one to make. We always have a choice.

It’s never easy making choices. While they do come with advantages that could benefit your future, there can be some consequences to them, such as losing friends. Being a leader, I always want to make sure that I am a friend first and foremost, someone you can trust and someone you can approach. There will be times where the decisions you make will lead to a loss of friendships. But then again, if your friends leave you for making the right decision, were they even your friends to begin with?

It’s not a great feeling, but I like to remember that I will never truly be alone, even if it may feel like it at that time. There’s a famous song that is played at every Liverpool FC soccer match, titled “You’ll never walk alone”. You’ll always have someone supporting you and your decisions, no matter where they are. You’ll never truly walk alone, and you’ll never truly be alone.”

Devin Lyden
Class of 2023

“In the position of a leader, the goal is to inspire others to put their best foot forward, and to bring the best out of them to achieve a common goal.
A leaders goal is to both care about their team members and helping them achieve their personal goals, While also challenging them to be the best version of themselves that they can be.

I personally believe it’s extremely important to be able to learn from the past and use it as the stepping stone for the future. As best said by Lars Fält, “Knowledge is learning from the mistakes of others, experience is learning from one’s own mistake”. Without learning from oneself own mistakes through experience how is someone supposed to evolve in their role within a team?

The biggest thing in my opinion that keeps a team strong is trust. Putting trust into your team members to accomplish tasks and being hands off on them, while focusing on your own tasks not only creates a more optimal efficiency, but shows to the team you trust them to do the right thing, and very often that trust is reciprocated back to you.”

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Holly Eppenstein
Class of 2024

“As I continue to grow in who I am as a leader I’ve taken the time to reflect on my values and who I truly am as a leader. Leadership to me is to be able to help others achieve their goals and successes while also making sure they have fun while doing so. A leader is someone who is willing to step up to the plate and become the driving force in motivating others and being able to encourage others while also following my passions. I’ve had the opportunity to work with others from different cultures and with other styles of leadership. I think that this is such an eye opening experience to see how no matter our differences we can still work together and see eachother just for how we are in this moment. I think a large part of my growth as a leader is having people push me as a leader and really get me to be the best leader I can. Without the push and all the advice I wouldn’t be the leader I am today and all the growth I have achieved. Before these programs I didn’t think I could become a leader. I was a shy freshman and someone who could never be in such a position. But being in these positions and these programs I’ve become someone who is more confident and flexible in being me.“

Tyler LaComfora
Class of 2023

“I’d like to begin my speech with just a small poem I created titled “He Who Leads.”

He who leads, leads not for himself, but for others
He who leads, leads not just for today or tomorrow, but for the future
He who leads must do so with respect, for if he doesn’t he will not connect
He who leads can lead from afar, allowing others to shine like a shooting star

Leading is in a way an improv act. Oftentimes we must work against the clock. I only gave myself a few minutes to write that poem and look at what I created, a classic piece of modern American Literature.

As a fan of comedy I like to be in situations where I can rely on quick wits to navigate high pressure environments. I view leadership in many ways as my own improv act. So many things go into leadership and while you should always be prepared there is no way you can plan for everything.

This works in much the same way as a comedian. You can write the jokes and practice them in front of your mirror for hours, but the audience determines how funny you really are.

It’s like Grafton High School JV football coach Ryan “Baby Gap” Jack used to say

“It’s all about response. And when I say response I mean responding to the stuff that happens when stuff ‘happening’. Someone who’s in touch with their roots, like a tree but not actually you gotta know you are not a tree. People who stay out in the cold may experience pain, but they also gain a lesson. And one guy was cold at first, then everyone was cold after that individual.”

I have been friends with Baby Gap for a very long time but I swear ever since he became the coach of that team he’s started speaking very oddly, it’s a conversation we need to have.

I had to include that in there just because of the magnitude of his conceptualization.

Point is, we had a good time eh? 

Listen, I want to make sure that everyone is having a good time, and being put in roles where we can be ourselves and see the value of our contributions. Let’s have some fun, while respecting one another, and the work will be enjoyed. Thank you everyone!”

Avery LeBlanc
Class of 2024

“In a room full of many I may appear small
I know I can’t place myself in a box when I have the potential to lead all
I was once a follower, now a leader
What I can promise you now is I am a completer
Trust me in the journey to be our best selves
Taking advantage of our individuality is how we excel
I want people to trust me,
As no task is too small or far I promise you will see
In this world, not a single person is not able
The title perfect may be desired but I don’t have all the answers to give me that label
I promise I lead not for power but for growth
As a leader, your success is under my oath.”

Kyle Powers
Class of 2022

“I was a loser in high school.
I was an even bigger loser before that.
Then again, I was basing that off of
Everything I saw on TV.
Being a leader was never even on my radar.
I never thought I had what it took.
I wasn’t strong, or confident.
I thought my best trait was cracking a joke.
I realized that cracking jokes was self-defense.
I mean, for being above average in height,
I felt pretty small.
And I thought this for a long time.
Yet none of those things define a leader.
A leader doesn’t have to be the center of attention.
They don’t have to be the smartest person in the room.
That all changed when I actually took risks for myself.
I did Emerge with an energy drink-fueled Linzy,
I became an orientation leader for an electric freshman class,
And now I’m here in Engage, having Sarah deal with me outside of the office.
It was through this that I realized what a real leader is.
A real leader doesn’t try to do everything,
They know when to let others take over.
A real leader doesn’t hide when things get hectic,
They unite and comfort in times of disarray.
Most importantly, a leader isn’t just one person.
There is a leader in every single person.
Everyone has strengths, everyone has weaknesses.
When a person learns to work with others and adapt,
That is when they know they’re a leader.
At least, that’s what happened to me.”

Imane Samari
Class of 2022

“Behind every great leader is a set of unwavering morals and values. Your morals not only make up who you are as a person, but how you interact with the world around you. These morals create a set of guidelines for how you go about life and making decisions. In a way, your morals lead your decision-making. One cannot simply make decisions without thinking whether they are right or wrong without thinking about how these decisions will impact their lives in any way, shape, or form. We, as humans, are guided by our morals and values. Without them, we are lost. Think of it like this, we grow up with the presence of a shadow. This shadow is constantly holding our hand and leading us to make certain decisions. We can’t form our own thoughts or choices without it. We rely so heavily on this shadow, that if something happens to it and we’re asked to make a decision, we would be frozen in place; not knowing what to do because we don’t have our decision-making helper guiding us. If you think of that shadow as representative of your morals, then wouldn’t our values personify leadership? If so, if you are unable to lead yourself, then how will you be able to lead others?”

The post Engage Leadership Philosophies Fall 2021 appeared first on Campus Life.

How do you think you’ve changed as a leader throughout your time at WSU, and what aspects of your experience most influenced this change?
At WSU, I have definitely become a  more active, involved, and confident leader. When I started, I was really quiet and super nervous! Meeting new people, student leaders, and staff here has really made me come out of my shell. The people around me have shown me what it takes to be a leader, and most importantly, they showed me that I have what it takes. I have been met with kindness and open minds who want to hear what I have to say and help me to reach my goals. 

What is the biggest lesson you have learned when it comes to leadership? 
The biggest lesson I have learned when it comes to leadership is that it’s okay to ask for help! I wouldn’t be the person I am if it weren’t for the help of the people around me. I used to be really afraid to ask for help but through being involved on campus I have gotten so much better at this.

We really want to highlight the intersection of identity, culture, and leadership development. Can you share how your identity has shaped your leadership style throughout the years?
As I’ve gotten more involved on campus I have felt so much more comfortable being myself. Coming out was a huge part of this. It was so scary, but in the end I felt so accepted by the community around me and found that it was just another thing that I can use to help make me a better leader. Since I have come out, I have become a part of the team behind the LGBTQ+ Alliance on campus. I found that I can contribute to the wonderful safe space that they create. I have even become a safe space for others who need someone to talk to when it is too scary to talk to anyone else. I have come to appreciate the unique experience I have as someone in he LGBTQ+ community, especially since I can use it to help others who are working through it. 

What would you say has been your best experience here at WSU?
My best experience has been working with OSILD through the leadership programs. And I’m not just saying this because they gave me the opportunity to talk about myself! They really do give so many opportunities. They have really helped me to work on myself and my leadership. They gave me opportunities to meet leaders like myself to share and hear ideas. They also stick with you- checking in, and helping out.

What was your most meaningful experience while at WSU?
When I was in freshman seminar my first year, it was required for us to participate in a “mock interview.” I didn’t think much of it- it was just an assignment that I needed to get done. However, I actually met some really amazing people in my interview, and since it wasn’t real, I felt really calm, and every interview since then has been a breeze. I really recommend this program.

However, the people I met were the most important part.  They opened up a door I didn’t even know existed. Before I knew it, I had a real interview for a summer job. I worked with individuals with disabilities and I learned so much that summer. I even learned that this is a population that I want to work with in the future as a therapist. It’s a really great feeling. And this job opened up so many other opportunities for me. 

What has been your biggest accomplishment since beginning your journey at WSU?
Honestly, I think my biggest accomplishment has been becoming more me. As a teenager I was really shy and hid who I was. The community at WSU has shown me that there is a place for me- a lot of them actually. After coming out I have made so many connections with people and learned to embrace who I am.

What advice would you give to students who are just beginning to explore the type of leader, or the type of person, they hope to become?
Don’t doubt yourself! This was something that was really hard to learn. I used to be really focused on my mistakes and setbacks, but you can’t do that to yourself. You have to learn from these and move on. Don’t let yourself be your biggest barrier. When in doubt- ask for help. An outside perspective can change your own

What are your current plans for the next few years?
I hope to study and receive my masters after graduation. I want to continue working with others and helping people.

Ari is a graduate of the Circles of Leadership program.

The post Student Spotlight | Ari Giasson appeared first on Campus Life.

Many of the things that describe Memphis can also describe Jess, both as a leader and an individual. Her leadership style is positive, energetic, and motivating, welcoming to those around her. Coming to Worcester State has allowed her to break out of her shell and grow while learning to be the best leader she can be.

Leading with Soul

Jess credits the experience of working as an Orientation Leader between her freshman and sophomore year as the start of her leadership journey. The position allowed her to get to know campus faculty and staff members, interact with students, and learn everything she could about campus. 

“That feeling I felt, being on stage, talking to people, and having someone look up to you in a way…I’ve never had that feeling. I think my favorite thing was just being around people, and learning and growing; I just felt on top of the world for that summer. I had friends who were like ‘Jess, you were so different when you were an Orientation Leader.’ I don’t know if that’s a good thing or a bad thing, but to me it’s a good thing that I was on top of the world. I was doing something I loved and I made connections.”

Spending time talking with small groups of first-year students gave Jess the opportunity to build relationships with them, and some of her students later joined her in club meetings or became her residents. They’ve become friends, supporting one another through the ups and downs of college student life.

“I love being around people, I love helping people, that’s one thing about me. Just being around people is my ideal…being that friend for someone, has really helped me in my leadership style. Because yes, I’m here to lead and give you direction, but I’m also here to build that friendship with you and really be that mentor, that peer for you, to help you grow.”

Relying on Energy & Spirit

Holding leadership positions on the Orientation and Residence Life require more than just practical skill; they require a type of energy and determination that helps during even the most difficult and demanding of times. These positions have taught Jess the importance of having a strong team around her, made up of people who can provide support and help.

“You don’t have to do it all. It’s okay to do one thing, to have two things that you’re good at, you don’t have to take on like, ten things at a time. I feel like that’s the best lesson that I’ve learned. And I think just as a leader, do what you can handle. And just be the best you can at that.”

A spirit of determination to forge a new path has also followed Jess from back home. The first time she applied to work as a Resident Assistant, she wasn’t offered the position. But instead of becoming frustrated, she threw herself into her Orientation Leader role and opportunities rippled from there. To a student who isn’t sure about applying for a role or job they want? She recommends they just go for it.

“Just do it. What do you have to lose? I applied for RA, but I didn’t get it that year, but you know, OL was the thing I got and I will forever be thankful for that because it was the start of something. It’s a ripple effect. Different programs open up different opportunities. Just go for it, you won’t regret it.”

Jess describes a great leader as someone who is open and honest, a good listener, and willing to take criticism and advice from others. But most importantly, they should be themselves.

“Don’t try to be like any other type of leader that you see; I wouldn’t want anyone to try and be like me. Of course you can like some of my characteristics, but [you should] truly be yourself. I think a lot of leaders aim to be just like a certain person, but you kind of screw yourself over in the end. But if you truly be yourself and just be open and honest, then that’s the best type of leader that you can be; that’s what makes you unique.”

“The Life of the Two Lands”

Ever since her first year, Jess has been a familiar face on campus. She is an Orientation Leader, Resident Assistant in Sheehan Hall, current secretary and former chair of Third World Alliance, and a member of the Circles of Leadership program and Student Support Network. She has naturally stepped into a variety of student leadership roles. Reflecting on this, Jess shared that one of her biggest accomplishments has been stepping out of her comfort zone and taking advantage of all the leadership opportunities that Worcester State has to offer. 

“Believe it or not, in high school and middle school, I was never in a leadership role. I was just in class, I never did anything after school. My school life here [at Worcester State] and the way I’m around other people is different. People back home in Memphis, if they see this type of Jess they’re like ‘what, she does this?’ They have the basics to know that I’m very sweet, and I’m very kind, and I’m a people person, but my involvement and just seeing me really owning everything I do and being the best I can be, they’re probably shocked. So it’s two different environments and the biggest accomplishment has been to step out of my comfort zone.”

Students coming to college and taking the opportunity to be someone different or try something new is not uncommon. Jess spoke about the realization that her college experience could be less about fitting the mold of how others saw her and more about trying different things. 

“Coming here no one knew me, so if I fell on my face or whatever, oh well. They’re not going to remember that. It’s a different environment from high school. I decided to come here because I wanted a change. And coming to Worcester State was the best choice. I was like, okay, I’ll start new. Even though I didn’t know anyone, I was just like ‘hey, I gotta make the best of it.‘”

Established & Everlasting

With the hope of someday becoming a motivational speaker or working behind the scenes on theater productions, Jess is studying communications with a concentration in media production, and minors in both art and theater. 

“I had a thing for arts, and all of this just came from being at Worcester State, all this interest in creating things, I was able to put things into words being here. Seeing the people and all, that’s a great feeling. That’s why I love behind the scenes.”

Now entering the second semester of her junior year, Jess has only grown more confident in the leader she is becoming and the relationships she is building.

“[Every year] my friends do a Friendgiving. My group of friends, we’re all different, from different backgrounds, no one is the same, which is so crazy but I love it, because we’re all together. Just eating and laughing.”

And her final thoughts on her Worcester State experience and her leadership journey? 

“A lot of times when I’m around a group of people, or with a lot of people, I go into a daze. You may think I’m distracted. But what I’m doing is taking in the moment because it’s almost too good of a moment, and I’m trying to take a picture in my mind to remember it. It’s like, I’m living a dream in that moment, I’m leading others. I wanted to come to Worcester State to start new, and I actually came to Worcester State to start new. It’s a crazy feeling.” 

The post Jess Wicks Brings Memphis to WSU appeared first on Campus Life.

Lyndsey Broxton
Class of 2022

“Personal growth is defined as the ongoing process of understanding and developing oneself in order to achieve one’s fullest potential and it is a vital part of a person’s growth, maturity, success and happiness. I grew up in the house that taught me to do everything and anything that I do to my best ability and I truly believe that has had a major effect on me throughout my entire life and within this program. I learned in a credible amount about myself during this program, and I am finally becoming the person I wanted to be forming my leadership identity. Your leadership identity is as unique as your own fingerprint, meaning your style of leadership is like no other. My mission as a leader is to encourage people to be the best they can be. Everyone has potential to do something great, sometimes it takes someone to tap into their potential and make them aware. Over the past couple of weeks many of you have challenged me and helped me tap into my untapped potential and I cannot thank you enough. The program is office puts on every year has shaped me into the person I am today, and I cannot thank the staff enough for giving me a chance and believing in me. My biggest takeaway from all the programs is that your passion drives your vision and mission. All of you in this room have something that you’re passionate about, I encourage you to continue to take the risks to make your life more fulfilling, as well as tap into your untapped potential. I believe all of us in this room had the ability to make an incredible impact, and I will be here to applaud all of your past and future success.”

Michael Cardoza
Class of 2022

“As leaders, we all face unique challenges that helped us to be put in the positions we are in now. Personally, I’ve always admired those who are able to lead groups without seeming mean or angry. One of my first opportunities to be in a leadership position is when I became a an OL (orientation leader) at WSU. My first time hearing of the news I was nervous to be in such a position. “Do I have the social skills to lead?” “Would I be able to maintain the personality I thought I needed to do a good job?” As time in training went on, I began to realize that I can still be myself in these environments. This was like discovering fire for me. Playing on sports teams growing up I was never the most gifted or skilled athlete. But, like leadership, some are blessed with natural abilities and others have to use their talents and hard work to keep up with the team. Although I wasn’t gifted like my teammates, my input and ideas were acknowledged and accepted. That was my talent. My knowledge and appreciation for the game was not something I shied away from, I embraced it. I bring this up to say in life, we are all put into “unwritten” leadership roles and being the captain of the team or the best player doesn’t make you a leader. A leader is someone who understands there is no “I” in team but there is a “me” in it. ӣ����Ƶ a week before my first session, a rapper radar podcast interview had been released with rapper Jim jones. When discussing his role in the diplomats, a famous rap group of the early 2000s, one statement truly stuck out to me. Jones was going from the group’s “runner” to arguably one of the best in the whole group, along with a successful and growing solo rap career.  Jones states “you are a solider with the ability to be a leader”. So, I leave you with this, some of the greatest leaders were once soldiers on the battlefield, and some of the most brilliant and powerful people still see themselves as soldiers fighting battles greater than them. Are you ready to go in as a solider and grow as a true leader?”

Sarah Deslauriers
Class of 2022

“I believe that as a leader you should respect everyone and treat the group like you want them to treat you. I believe a leader should be passionate about what they do, show empathy towards others and be kind to all. A leader should never give a task to a group member that they would not do themselves. A leader should be a good communicator and be reliable. A leader should be able to listen to others and ask for help when needed. A leader should also be a problem-solver and be easily approachable. A leader should be able to use and know their strengths while also
improving their weaknesses. I believe that a leader can learn the skills necessary but can also be born with many of these traits. Anyone can be a leader but it takes these skills in order to be an exceptional and outstanding leader.”

Julie Erickson
Class of 2022

“A leader is one who knows the way, the way, shows the way. When a leader knows the way, they are conscientious and knowledgeable. Using the past experiences and techniques they have learned helps the leader know the way. As a leader I hope to pass on what I have learned and what I value in a positive influential way. Being a leader who goes the way is a leader who demonstrates their values and morals. I want to be a leader who goes the way through doing their best to help those surrounding them by being inclusive and supportive of others. Being a leader who shows the way is what I value most about being leader. Showing the way as a leader means you are a good example and confident in yourself and your peers. One who shows the way extends their confidence and knowledge during an effort to help others succeed. Knowing the way, going the way, and showing the way are the three ways one can be an influential leader and extend their leadership qualities to others.”

Arianna Giasson
Class of 2022

“My personal leadership has always come from a place of striving for growth. While there are so many different groups to lead with different ideals, goals and structures, what they have in common is room to grow.

A lot of the time, I think we get stuck in this idea that we need to be perfect. I know that especially when I became an RA, I immediately wanted to be perfect at the job. Obviously now, I can look back and see that this was an impossible standard for myself. Once I realized I wasn’t going to be flawlessly solving disagreements and shutting down parties while still being the chill RA that everyone likes, I realized that one thing I could surely do, was grow. I learned from mistakes, like this time when I walked by a clear-cut party and me and my fellow new RA stood outside the door whispering nervously until one of the residents came to the door and we had to pull it together. As time went on, I could see myself growing, as well as my residents growing relationships, with each other, with me, and towards their goals. And that is what being a leader is to me. Accepting mistakes, as lessons to grow from, and growing yourself so that you can better help others in your groups grow. And I have Sarah to thank for helping me grow.”

Erica Hanlon
Class of 2023

“As a leader I believe strongly in individuality and community. I feel that every person should be encouraged to express themselves and to be welcomed in every environment. As a leader, I strive to be an ally to everyone including groups like the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, and people with disabilities. Over the past year of attending WSU, I have learned so much about different groups of people as well as inequity that exists in society. When I entered College, I wanted to challenge myself to embrace the uncomfortable and see New Perspectives. I wanted to step outside my own personal world and learn about bigger issues than those that directly affect only myself. I have made efforts to become involved and make a difference on campus. Whether it be through small means like being friendly and open-minded with the people I meet, or through larger means like going to Washington DC to Advocate on behalf of WSU students or supporting the WSU stand against hate rally. I know these efforts are just the beginning steps in making a true difference, but I am determined to continue these efforts in the next three years I have here. I will continue to support members of the WSU community and try to make everyone feel welcome. I want to help in the fight for equal opportunities and treatment for all people. I hope to carry these goals with me far beyond graduation; for instance, in my future career as an occupational therapist where I can Advocate on behalf of my clients and support them for who they are. Above all I want to make even the slightest different and others lives as a leader. I want to spread positivity and encouragement, and have others know they can rely on me to be there as a friend and to always stand up for what is fair.”

Jaylene Hurley
Class of 2022

“Growing up, I was a shy girl that just tried to flow with the crowd, but I never quite fit in. I went from school to school, constantly being an outsider, until I settle down in Hudson for most of my life, but I still had this lingering feeling of not fitting in. I never really felt like my voice mattered I let this feeling consume me and bring me down for too much of my life.

When I got accepted to Worcester State, Mark Wagner was calling me over and over trying to get me to join his civic engagement program before I even chose to attend the school. It greatly impacted my decision and my current outlook on the school; people believed in me and made me feel like I had a place before I even made the choice to go here. It opened up a door for me to learn more about myself and my uniqueness. I decided I was going to push myself out of my comfort zone. I was going to take advantage of opportunities that came my way that started with accepting Mark’s offer. Upon getting to college, I kept doing things out of my comfort zone. Like joining emerge leadership, or talking to all kinds of new people, or checking out clubs that came my way. I realize I had a lot more potential than I previously believed.

Because I know what it feels like to get overlooked, I noticed when other people are getting overshadowed so I reach out to them to hear their ideas. I listen to people. I make them feel heard. I told you what I believe in them because I really do. Everyone has the potential to accomplish ambitions and do great things – all it takes is one to cheer them on. Lastly, I tried to embrace people for who they are. Everyone has great things to offer… And maybe some things that will get under our skin too, but everyone deserves to be heard, accepted, and supported, just like I did. Because of my experiences, I’ve become a leader that works to make people feel like their voices are heard and included. That’s the lead I needed growing up and that’s the leader I am today.”

Jacob Labonte
Class of 2022

“A leader may not always be the obvious person. Many people have this vision that a leader is someone who has no flaws and are incapable of making any mistakes. However, this is not the case. To be a leader does not require being Flawless in fact the best leaders are those who are perfectly imperfect. They are not only confident in their strengths but also acknowledge and secure and their weaknesses. These weaknesses are what makes us human and what makes us relatable. A leader being conscious their weaknesses allows them to work well with others who compliment their strengths and weaknesses. This provides opportunity for others to step up and emerge as leaders themselves. A leader is capable of taking a step back in allowing others to take lead when there is someone else better suited for the position. Leaders don’t suppress others from growing and becoming leaders themselves, instead they discover the untapped potential in people and encourage and assist others in their develop in growth as a leader.”

Marissa Luchini
Class of 2022

“I want to be a leader who grows outside of her comfort zone (and inspires others to do the same) in order to grow both as a person and as a leader.

I believe that a leader should be:

Reliable – be someone people can trust and rely on to get the job done.

Open-minded – willing to accept a diverse range of both people and ideas.

Approachable – make people feel comfortable coming to them.

Confident – in themselves and their capabilities.

Creative – think outside of the box to create a new and inventive solutions to problems.

Team-oriented – take initiative and do whatever is best for the group as a whole.

Positive – bring a positive energy to the group.

Lighthearted – always try to bring a smile to people’s faces.

Kind – be compassionate, caring and willing to lend a helping hand.

Passionate – show interest, excitement, motivation and motivate others as well.”

Cayce Pappas
Class of 2021

“What defines a leader? It is a question that has been floating around in my head for the past two semesters. Is it the individual who stands in front of a crowd to deliver a powerful message? Is it a person who is committed to their beliefs, and represents them with full integrity? Can everybody be a leader? Who am I as a leader?

I stand behind two beliefs; that anybody can be a leader and that everybody was put on the world for a reason, no matter the fact that they may be more reserved or outspoken. A leader can come in all shapes and sizes, you just might be confident in your purpose. I doesn’t matter if other people don’t believe in you, the most important thing is that you believe in yourself. That makes you a powerful leader, because sometimes the hardest person to convince to believe in you is in fact yourself.

Being in Engage and Emerge has taught me a very important lesson, that I’m privileged to have a voice, and not using it would be a disservice to those who may not realize their views matter. It’s important to remember that a leader is not a stand alone individual; they encompass the ideas and voices of so many others. This is why a significant characteristic of a leader is, not only being able to look back on who guided them down their path, but also looking ahead to people they hope to reach out to. A leader doesn’t have to stand behind something large, but if you’re going to stand for something stand tall and proud.

It is essential to remember that not everything will go as planned, it doesn’t have to. It’s okay if your thoughts don’t line up with the person who is next to you. How a person reacts to the situation, is how their leadership skills are defined. I want to make as many positive impacts on this Earth while I have the chance. Hopefully my actions will have an influence on others to take a stand for what they believe. Finally, if you were to take away anything, recognize that a leader doesn’t necessarily look for someone to stand behind them but next to them in order to guide one another.”

The post Engage Leadership Philosophies Spring 2020 appeared first on Campus Life.

These philosophies also build on those they shared in their Emerge program. We believe every student should develop their own unique philosophy.  And so we wanted to share with you just a few of the great philosophies that our leaders have created for themselves. Trisha Cheever | Class of 2020

As I sat here thinking of how to describe myself as a leader, I keep referring back to myself as quiet, and using listening as my number one tool of engagement and focus. Although I may not be physically engaged, my silence is my way of evaluating or trying to solve the situation using restorative techniques.

To put a metaphor to it, I would consider myself to be a sponge. I absorb a lot of information and filter, distinguish and sort the information I obtain by priority within the situation.

The information I retain, factors into why I love to learn. When given the chance, and when I feel it is a good opportunity, I will share all the information I have obtained. I want everyone to be included in what is achieved. 

Alba Diaz | Class of 2019

Leadership is important to make change. Everyone should have the opportunity to become a leader. Being a business major I have a lot of interest in leadership. I also have an opportunity to work with other individuals who have the same goals.

Being able to participate in the Engage Leadership program has helped me developed more skills that I could use while working with the President and the fellow Presidential Student Ambassador’s (PSAs). I was able to use my leadership skills to also land a marketing internship for the upcoming semester. So, being able to have all these skills, I should be successful in any opportunity I get in the future.

Jasmine Fouracre | Class of 2020

To me being a leader is all about realizing the important things that may be left unsaid and including the whole group instead of just  those who are upfront with ideas.  It is so important to get every person involved in creating and finishing a presented task.

The words left unspoken often convey the loudest messages. Every person plays a part, and it is important to encourage those who often stay quiet to voice their ideas. There is also deep intelligence hiding behind those who may seem otherwise un-involved or distracted.

Those who are loud and are often seen as “disruptive” may not be given the credit they deserve. To be a great leader is to be one who nurtures every facet of a group. In letting those who are not always seen as intelligent speak their truth, or by listening closely to the silence emitted by those who chose not to speak; a great leader shows both their their strength and the strength that can be built up by their followers.

Taylor Hutchings | Class of 2020

Everyone has their own definition of a leader. Mine is someone who can take charge of a situation and guide others to produce the best outcome. Leaders have to know how to deal with conflicts, work with a variety of different types of people and know how to bring out the best qualities in everyone.

Leaders need to be able to communicate and be creative. Lastly, leaders need to inspire others. If a leader isn’t able to inspire, then the people working with them aren’t going to make a strong team.

Teamwork is important in leadership because everyone has different strengths and weaknesses, and the team works together to make a complete group.

I believe that a leader never stops learning how to become a good leader, there are so many qualities that leaders possess, but there is no leader with the exact same qualities. Leaders also can learn from other leaders and I feel as though this program Engage Leadership Circle was a good example of that.

We are all different kinds of leaders, and when we do activities, we learn different qualities that leaders possess. That being said, I believe that leaders will never stop learning how to be a better leader.

We believe every student walks through their leadership journey different.

And therefore, everyone eventually develops their own unique philosophy. If you would like help developing yours, visit the Office of Student Involvement staff on the 2nd floor of the Student Center.

Sincerely,

The Office of Student Involvement & Leadership Development 

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