3 Semester Review

Below is a summary of my experience in the Public Leadership cohort of College Park Scholars. I talk about how the definition of leadership has changed for me over the past 3 semesters and how my own personal leadership styles has been influenced.

How has your understanding of leadership changed over your time in PL? What do you think of leadership now/What does leadership mean to you now?

During my time in PL, my understanding of leadership has grown immensely. I understand now that leadership goes beyond boundaries and formal titles. Leadership can be found in every aspect of our lives and days, and can be seen on small and large scales. I now view leadership as more of a continuum than a moment. Leadership is something that can be brought about in anyone at any time, it doesn’t need a distinctive moment.

Describe your leadership style referencing Strengths, leadership theories/styles, etc from class.

I would describe myself as a servant leader. When I act as a leader, I do so in a manner that involves others in the situation. I feel that outcomes are best produced when others voices are heard and valued.

What facilitated the change in your understanding of leadership?

I chose to upload my Leadership Philosophy paper from CPPL200. This paper encompasses my approach to leading myself and others. I feel like this paper helped me to fully understand what steps it takes to lead and what tools are needed to lead effectively.

How have you used an element of leadership learned through PL in your life? (either a formal leadership role or a personal interaction).

I have definitely refined my servant leadership skills through this program and used them in the real world. Though I have formal leadership positions, I find myself using these skills learned in PL in informal situations. Whether it be in situations with roommates or friends, I feel like I assume positions of serving others in my daily life.