Alumni {sequence}

Being a part of the 20/20 Leadership program has opened so many doors for my future that allows me to be successful. This program has given me the tools, knowledge, resources, and perspectives necessary to be the best leader I can be. This program has allowed me to grow closer to my peers and other students in this program.

One of the key benefits of the 20/20 Leadership program is the resources and connections that I have been able to get in touch with. Being able to meet so many adults and mentors that give great advice on how to navigate my life as an adult has been so helpful. An example is when we had the financial literacy day and I got to learn all about spending and what are necessities and wants when it comes to saving and spending. During this field trip I also learned how to invest my money properly and why it is important. I’ve also met 20/20 mentors such as Ms. Heather and Ms. Nicole has helped me become the best version of myself as well as taught me how to be a great leader.

Additionally, this program has provided me with valuable leadership skills that I can apply in real life. From public speaking and teamwork to open mindedness and communication. I learned most of these skills when I presented in the 20/20 Olympics. I was never fond of speaking in front of large audiences but I had to overcome my fear in order to sell our project as well as to prove to my team that I wouldn’t let them down. I also had to practice teamwork when working with my team on the 20/20 Olympics project by hearing everyone out and implementing everyone’s ideas into our presentation all while making sure everyone felt included.

Leaving a legacy to me means that you have influenced your community for the better and they are able to take inspiration from what you’ve done to not only better themselves but the community as a whole. I hope that my team and I have left a legacy full of compassion and understanding that other students want to help their peers succeed and feel supported. Through our olympics project, Hope and Harmony, the students will mentor one another and inspire them to be the best students they can be.

In the future, I will use everything I’ve learned from this program. I will spend and invest my money wisely, be compassionate to my peers, be comfortable in my own voice while speaking to large groups, and most importantly be the best leader I can be and prove to others that this program has shaped me into the person I am today. Through this program I have learned that leadership can take many different forms. Leadership is not only telling people what to do, but also seeing things from all perspectives as well as creating an environment in which everyone feels comfortable and supported. I will make sure I use every single thing I’ve learned through this program in order to better myself and my community.