Alumni Scholarship 10

Reflecting on my journey through high school, one of the most impactful experiences was participating in the 20/20 Leadership program. It opened my eyes to what it truly means to be a leader, helping me grow in ways I hadn’t expected. From managing my role as Senior Class President to founding and leading the Media Club, the leadership lessons I gained from 20/20 have shaped the way I approach challenges, teamwork, and personal growth. I know these lessons will continue to guide me as I move into the next chapter of my life, both in college and in my career.

One of the biggest takeaways from the 20/20 program was the importance of empathy in leadership. Before joining, I thought leadership was mostly about giving direction and making decisions. But I quickly realized it’s much more about understanding and connecting with people. As Senior Class President, I faced the challenge of managing a group of peers with varying perspectives and ideas. I had to learn how to listen deeply to others, acknowledge their concerns, and find ways to bring everyone together. This was a tough balance to strike, but the lessons I learned from the 20/20 program helped me approach it with patience and understanding. I’ll carry this focus on empathy with me into the future, especially in my academic and professional life, where collaboration and communication are key.

In addition to empathy, I learned a lot about adaptability. When I founded the Media Club at my school, I faced numerous challenges, from recruiting members to figuring out how to get the club off the ground. There were times when things didn’t go according to plan, and I felt unsure about how to move forward. But the 20/20 Leadership program taught me to embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth, and to be resourceful in finding solutions. This mindset was crucial in turning the Media Club into a successful and supportive space for creative expression. I also realized that adaptability isn’t just about bouncing back from failure—it’s about being flexible in how you approach problems and recognizing when it’s time to change direction. Whether I’m coding or working with a team in the future, I know that being able to adapt will be one of my greatest strengths.

Looking ahead, I know the skills I’ve developed in the 20/20 Leadership program will be valuable no matter where I go. Whether I’m tackling challenges in college, working on a project, or starting a career, I’m confident that the leadership principles I’ve learned will guide me in making meaningful contributions. In the field of computer science, where teamwork, innovation, and problem-solving are essential, I’ll continue to rely on empathy, adaptability, and open communication to collaborate effectively and drive progress.

To me, leaving a legacy isn’t about achieving fame or recognition. It’s about creating a lasting, positive impact on the people around you. It’s about making a difference, whether through the projects you lead, the relationships you build, or the way you inspire others to act. As Senior Class President, I wanted to leave behind something that would remind my peers of the strength that comes from unity, even when we disagreed. One of my proudest moments was working on the yearbook project, ensuring that everyone’s voice was represented. I wanted that yearbook to be a reflection of the diversity of our experiences, and I hope it serves as a reminder that we were all part of something bigger than ourselves.

In conclusion, the 20/20 Leadership program taught me invaluable lessons about leadership, empathy, and resilience. These lessons have already shaped my journey, and they will continue to guide me as I pursue my academic and professional goals. For me, leaving a legacy means leaving behind a positive mark on the world—one that encourages others to embrace challenges and lead with heart. I’m excited to see how these lessons will continue to shape my future and help me contribute to the communities I’m a part of.