Senior 6

Being a leader has much more meaning than just guiding someone in the right direction. To me, a leader is someone willing to sacrifice and drive for what’s right. “You have to help others no matter what, where, and when” that’s what I told myself freshman year. Starting high school only knowing a few people and being around a new environment was pretty scary. In high school, every student is going through their own path trying to find their passions. Little did I know my passion was softball. I remember going to my first softball practice terrified, I was shaking. I was trying to learn new skills and try to blend in with the other girls. Throughout the practice, the girls helped me feel welcomed. They helped me bring out a spark that I didn’t know I had. Skipping into junior year of high school I saw myself in my new teammates. I saw how scared they were and how they felt missed placed.

Looking back on how valiant I was during my freshman year, it inspired me to want other students to feel comfortable when trying new things. I wanted to help them to break their shell and have confidence in themselves. Personally, I had never done anything out of my comfort zone. I had always been the little girl that avoided meeting new people and crowds. I hid behind my parents at gatherings, even at family gatherings I avoided people. It wasn’t because I didn’t like them, it was because I was shy. I wanted to make a change.

I was honored to be co-captain of the Ruskin softball team. I was able to help the girls become confident when playing and most importantly help them play as a team. I was the teammate and a friend on and off the field that anyone could go up to. Having this experience will help me with my future career. I plan to take these skills I’ve gained in my future career. Growing up I always admired having to go visit the dentist. I loved how every visit they treated me with such happiness and care. As if their job was not an obligation. I soon realized that becoming a dentist will be my future career. I want patients to have a good experience when visiting the dentist and help patients feel comfortable and confident with their smiles. These skills will help me have great communication between my future coworkers and future patients.

20/20 Leadership has offered me great opportunities and connections that I could not be more grateful for. Not only did I grow as a leader, but I also grew as an individual. I’m hoping the softball team takes this on and off the field. I’m also very grateful for having wonderful girls to guide during the season. Now that I only have a few more weeks with the program I’m going to enjoy and capture these moments and memories with my class. Furthermore I hope the best for everyone.