Senior Essay 23

Leading by Example
Being a leader is not just about having a title nor being in charge. To me, leadership means showing up, taking responsibility, and being someone others can depend on, even when it is difficult. Throughout high school, I have demonstrated leadership through my role as a drum major, my involvement in service organizations, and the responsibilities I carry as the oldest sister in my family. These experiences have taught me that leadership is about accountability, consistency, and caring about the people you are leading.
One of the biggest leadership roles I have had was serving as a drum major in the band. I was responsible for leading rehearsals, keeping everyone focused, and setting the tone for the group. However, one moment during concert band rehearsals challenged me and helped me grow. That day, I was extremely tired, not feeling well, and mentally drained. When our director stepped out to take a call, everyone started yelling for me to get up and lead. I froze. I told them there was another drum major and that I was not the only one who could do it. Later, I got in trouble for not stepping up when I was needed. At the time, it was super hard to hear, but I did end up taking accountability for my actions. I realized then that leadership is not really about stepping up only when you feel ready or comfortable. Being a leader is much more about being reliable, even on your worst days. After that experience, I made a personal promise that I would make sure to always show up and lead when my group needed me, no matter how I felt. That moment helped me grow into a stronger and more dependable leader.
Outside of the band, I make sure to show leadership through service and involvement in my community. As a member of the National Honor Society, I have participated in volunteer work with Harvesters where I help sort and distribute food to families who are in need. I have also volunteered with KidZone, which helped create a positive and supportive mentoring space for younger children. These experiences showed me that leadership is not just about leading a group—it is also about serving others and using your time to make a difference.
Through Pep Club, I have helped support school events and encouraged school spirit. In addition to school, my most important leadership role is being the oldest sister in my family. My younger siblings look up to me, and I try to set a positive example through my actions, work ethic, and attitude. Whether I am helping them with school, giving advice, or just being someone they can count on, I have learned that leadership starts at home.
In the future, I want to continue to grow as a leader by staying involved in service opportunities and taking initiative wherever I go. As I grow older, I want to lead with honesty, accountability, and also sympathy. I really hope to mentor others, step into leadership roles, and continue making a positive impact in my community. Most importantly, I want to always lead by example and show others that leadership is about effort, growth, and being willing to learn from your mistakes.
Through the many experiences that I’ve had, I’ve learned that leadership is not at all about being perfect. Being a leader is showing up, taking responsibility, and doing your best for yourself and the people who are depending on you. These lessons will be with me as I continue my education and work toward becoming a leader who makes a big difference.