Alumni {sequence}

Having been a part of the 20/20 Leadership program has been a life-changing experience, and it has significantly impacted the way I have grown as a leader. This program has provided me with chances to learn through hands-on projects, leadership site visits, and networking events, all of which have been instrumental in shaping the leader I see myself becoming. The skills I’ve acquired are not only useful to my future but can also be useful to the community around me in a positive manner.

One of the best things about the 20/20 Leadership program was the leadership field trips, which allowed me to see professional environments firsthand. The field trips were excellent at teaching me the importance of professional dress and etiquette. In a world where first impressions matter, I now realize that looking sharp and professional may be the distinction between any two encounters, ranging from a business expo to a job interview. The most use to me was how the program emphasized not just looks, but confidence as well. I now feel much more at ease while moving in formal environments, whether I am attending business expos, networking meetings, or even potential job interviews. These have equipped me with the ability to make a good and lasting impression, and I am certain this will be invaluable as I move forward in my career.

The business fairs and expos were particularly insightful in revealing how important networking is. Before going to these events, I had a concept of networking but did not fully comprehend its possibilities. I learned that effective networking is not about exchanging business cards or contact information—it’s about making genuine connections with professionals. The program taught me how to approach industry professionals, ask smart questions, and present myself as a motivated and capable individual. These skills have helped me become confident in handling professionals from various industries and building relationships that can open doors to mentorship and future opportunities. Networking, I have come to understand, is a valuable resource for professional and personal growth. It’s about building relationships that can offer guidance, cooperation, and support as I progress in my career.

One of the greatest lessons that I gained from this program, perhaps, in one sense, is the meaning of “leaving a legacy.” My perception of legacy is not merely about individual success; it’s about creating a positive impact and lasting impression in the lives of other people. I’ve realized subsequently that leaving a legacy is actually about inspiring other people, creating opportunities for growth, and doing something greater than oneself. A legacy is not measured in terms of personal success, but by the way one’s life has impacted others. I would hope that my legacy will speak to my commitment to leadership, creativity, and innovation. My goal is to inspire others to go after what they want, challenge the status quo, and make a difference on their own terms. I would like to be remembered as an individual who not only achieved personally but also helped others to do the same.