Senior Essay 53

When it comes to leadership, to me, it has never been about titles, awards, or recognitions. It has been about taking responsibility for my actions as a leader and of others while using my voice to make a purposeful change. Throughout high school I have been challenged and even sought out opportunities to lead in ways that do, in order to strengthen me as a leader and impact my school and community in a positive way. Serving as an Officer in HOSA, future health professionals, Company gunny staff member of MCJROTC, and member of Student government has allowed me to develop leadership skills and expanded my growth in discipline and advocacy. Being a staff officer of my school’s MCJROTC program for four years has disciplined me when it came to responsibility and accountability, crucial and necessary factors as a leader. Leadership is all about being able to take the initiative, so when mentoring younger cadets, as a graduating senior, I was responsible for my cadets and ensuring standards were upheld; with that, initiative is critical as it inspires them to take ownership and encourages them to overcome obstacles. Whether that is with leading formations, inspections, or helping cadets improve their performance, I understand the importance of my actions and how it influences the success of the group. Through this role, I developed decision-making skills and learned how to remain composed when under pressure, whether that is holding meetings or organizing our community service events that I assist lead. My leadership experience in JROTC added a push to my role as a HOSA officer, where I learned what it means to lead with a purpose. HOSA’s program mission aligns with my passion in medicine and becoming the leader I aspire to become in my field. In my role, I help organize meetings, coordinate volunteer opportunities, fundraising, and labs. This requires more than just delegating tasks, it means motivating and fostering an environment of growth and service; reminding members of the larger purpose of our task, whether that is in our drug, mental, or alcohol awareness week activities for our school and community. In addition my involvement in Student govt/council has allowed me to showcase these skills when advocating for my peers and collaborating to address concerns and bring up awareness for diverse perspectives. When it comes to my community I assist in organizing and helping during our school’s harvesters, giving out food for those in need and giving out care kits for basic needs. As I continue to grow into adulthood and university, I hope to demonstrate and expand my leadership as a medical student. Medicine demands not only expertise but individuals who are ready to take initiative while providing compassion and responsibility. As a med-student and First gen Mexican American I aspire to break societal stereotypes and take on roles that help promote health equity, hoping to advocate for patients and disadvantaged individuals who may not have a strong voice. My ultimate goal is to lead by example, in order for that to occur I need to become the successful person I see in the future. I strive to use the leadership I cultivated throughout my years as a scholar and transcend it into adulthood and my professional career, giving back to my community and representing those who dreamed through me.