Senior Leadership Scholarship Essay 45

Leadership is not just about having a specific position, it’s about how you put yourself out there to inspire others, make a difference, and be true to yourself, I have taken on leadership roles in different ways that have contributed to how I perceived the world around me. One of my most important leadership roles has been within my family. As the oldest of 4, I am expected to look after my siblings, be a role model for them, and encourage them to be the best version of themselves. My leadership role within my family has shaped me the way I view the world, it has made me to be more mature and understanding of not only my siblings but of the people around me. It has driven me to think critically and influence my community in a more diverse, unique, and positive way. From a young age, I have understood that leadership is about being a role model, and a mentor, and it’s about having patience, responsibility, and sacrificing even the the little things. My family is my top priority and being there for them and doing my best even in my lowest time has encouraged me to also do that for the people around me. It has shaped my belonging and the way I think and do things because I have to think about the impact it’s going to have on them.

In the future, I want to demonstrate leadership by contributing to my community. Growing up in a country where opportunities are not constantly seen as it is here in America and every day this issue has driven me to be the best version of myself. Pursuing higher education will allow me to help these people by also educating them about their needs and rights, helping them find value in life, and encouraging the younger generations that education is the most powerful weapon you can use to make a change, this is one of my favorite quotes by Nelson Mandela and with this mindset, I hope that passion for educating people become a reality. I would love to use this mindset and contribute to my community by helping the less fortunate, providing care for them physically and mentally, and being someone they can look up to no matter what. I have learned to value and appreciate diversity and I am willing to bring these lessons and contribute to the rich diversity of not only my country but the world. My background in Liberia has given me a deep appreciation for community and resilience which I will carry with me. Whether it’s supporting peers who are navigating their transitions, or sharing stories from my experience, I am committed to a supportive environment where everyone feels valued. I want to be a leader for not only my family but of the world, a leader who values her people’s perspective, cares for their needs and emotional state, and also who is driven to take bigger steps into the real world no matter the consequences I might have to face.