My Experience with Student Leadership in College

This past year I got involved in student leadership at Grand Canyon University. I applied for the club advocate position working alongside the department in a team of 13 people overseeing and accepting more than 100 clubs on campus.

I joined this position hoping to get to know more people on campus. However, what I got was way more than that. Not only was I able to meet people and build relationships, but I also developed practical and professional skills that will be used to further my career. From small (but important) tasks like email etiquette to meticulous planning such as luncheon events or school-wide community fairs, student leadership enhances career competence many people my age struggle to understand.

One of the best parts about this experience is listening to people's stories and connecting with them about their passions. At the end of the day, you may not agree with someone entirely, but you do respect them for their dedication and drive. The feeling of being a part of helping a club or organization execute a successful event is indescribable. The team I operated with was so uplifting and hardworking. It was a pleasure working with them in such a positive environment on a day-to-day basis. Our mentors were always supportive and motivational, so it made the phrase "attitude reflects leadership" all too true at the workplace.

I am grateful for this opportunity to connect and learn from others. Student leadership is one of the best chances to grow and push yourself outside your normal tasks as a college student. I highly encourage you to look further into it because it is an experience you will not regret. It has helped prepare me for my future and the executives above me are to thank for that. My biggest takeaways are:

1. Everyone has a story, it is equally as unique and complex as we are, so listen to it. Everyone deserves to feel heard.
2. Boundaries are essential to respect you and your peers
3. Being punctual is important because people's time is valuable and limited
4. Staying open-minded allows room for growth
5. Be intentional with your work, it has a large impact on others.