Royals 11

Leadership experiences have always been present, but one has stayed with me long. While I’ve always had trouble speaking in front of others, I worked up the bravery to join Link Crew, little realizing that it would forever alter the way I see public speaking. Joining Link Crew was an excellent choice as a sophomore because I wanted to accomplish more, be more involved in my school, and demonstrate my pride in being a leader. I’ve been part of the Link Crew program for two years and have shown the most leadership. It has also really helped me with public speaking and assisting others. Helping students, from freshmen to seniors, I’ve gotten so much. As a senior, I have gained a deeper understanding of leadership, such as how putting yourself out of your comfort zone can lead to something great.

I, as a freshman, was intimidated by high school, embarrassed about getting involved in activities I liked, embarrassed of being seen, and felt like someone would judge or humiliate me if I were to do what I truly wanted. I now understand it was an irrational fear; I always feared involvement, however. I took a leap of faith once I realized how much fun it seemed. I wanted to be a part of a group of like-minded people, so I joined Student Council as a sophomore after my friend had recommended it to me the year prior. I participated independently, still afraid; however, I felt empowered and happy to be a part of something. The end of the sophomore year approached, and I received an email it stated, “We are beginning the process of recruiting Link Crew Leaders for the 2021-2022 school year.” I was interested! I decided to join, and to my surprise, I got accepted!

As I mentioned before, public speaking was a struggle for me. My first day was no exception; I stumbled over my words and could hardly explain the activities, although I had looked over the notes hundreds of times to prepare. I am now a senior who stills struggles but does her best. I have enough confidence to continue to do this fantastic activity. I could not be prouder of myself, and I know my freshman-year self would be too! Continuing to stay active in school activities, stayed persistent even if I was not good, remained consistent in what I believed, and had the confidence to keep going despite what other people thought. Because it all made me into the strong, confident, independent woman I am today!

Link crew was not just an activity for me but a learning curve. As my journey continued as a link crew leader, it taught me to be confident, take risks, be myself, never give up, and try new things. Learning these things was difficult, but I realized it as I grew! Of course, I still need to improve and know, but I am ready for what is to come. I am sad to say goodbye to this chapter of my life, but I will forever be grateful for the beautiful experience it gave me, making me the person I am today. I will continue to do school activities even in college, and I undoubtedly took the opportunities when I could, just as I did as a sophomore.

The inspiration this experience has given me to continue in school was tremendous! I am entirely grateful to continue to help people “out in the real world.” The school has always been a privilege, and the opportunity to continue my education with these earned skills is beyond thrilling. I plan to make my degree in biochemistry and continue my path to becoming an orthodontist. I would love to study abroad and gain hands-on experience in this field. I have the newfound confidence to continue to learn and become involved in my passions. As a first-generation college student, I am determined to do what it takes to achieve my goals and aspirations. I was not only inspired but encouraged to continue to be a leader. I have become someone who works hard and has the determination and willpower to continue to reach my full potential.

The inspiration this experience has given me to continue in school was tremendous! I am entirely grateful to continue to help people “out in the real world.” As I grow, I want to be an inspiration in my field! I have always seen school as a privilege and the opportunity to continue my education. I plan to complete my degree in biochemistry and continue my path to becoming an orthodontist. I would love to study abroad and gain hands-on experience in this field. With this newfound confidence, I was inspired and encouraged to continue to be a leader, learn, and become involved in my passions. As a first-generation college student, I am determined to do what it takes to achieve my goals and aspirations. I have become someone who works hard and has the determination and willpower to continue to reach my full potential.

As a leader, I have become more confident in myself, my abilities, and what I can do to succeed; I have learned many valuable skills. I know now better than ever that I can accomplish anything I want. Link crew was not just an activity for me but a learning curve. As my journey continued as a link crew leader, it taught me to be confident, take risks, be myself, never give up, and try new things. Learning these things take work, but as I grew, I gained experience! Of course, I still need to improve and know, but I am ready for what is to come. I will forever be grateful for the beautiful experience it gave me, making me the person I am today. I undoubtedly will take future opportunities, just as I did as a sophomore, and I do now.