Senior Leadership Scholarship Essay

Throughout high school, leadership has always been something I had to learn through action, context and service. My involvement in athletics and various school organizations has shaped me into a leader who values teamwork, responsibility, and the ability to bring people together. No matter if it’s on the court, field, weight room, or in a classroom, I have learned that leadership is not about having a title but about setting an example, inspiring others to follow.

To me, sports have always been one of the strongest foundations for developing my leadership abilities. Through volleyball, soccer, powerlifting, wrestling, and track, I have learned the importance of discipline and perseverance. Each sport challenged me differently, and those challenges are the reason I have grown into a leader who values effort and encouragement. On my volleyball team, I often found a way to step onto the court and make another teammate laugh when we were down. No matter if that included having a dance break in the middle of a game just to see a smile. On the field, I stepped into trying to help motivate teammates to push through the game with or without rain. In wrestling and powerlifting, it’s more than an individual performance, but creating a supportive team spirit. I have learned how to support others even when I was also pushing up against my own limits. Track has taught me responsibility and that it is okay not to improve on every jump. Showing up early to put in the extra practice before I had to leave for a soccer game and holding myself accountable. All of these moments have strengthened my leadership skills. 

Outside of athletics, my involvement in clubs and organizations has allowed me to demonstrate leadership through service and collaboration. Being a part of the Kay Club and National Honour Society has taught me the importance of giving back to my community. Through volunteering, service projects, and stepping up when extra help was needed, I learned how much impact just one committed person can truly have. In Diversity Ambassadors, I have gained a deeper understanding of inclusion and how to create an environment where everyone feels respected. This experience has helped shape the way I communicate and support others. 
The Student Council and the 20/20 Leadership program have given me opportunities to take on more formal leadership roles. These experiences have given me confidence in speaking, planning events, and problem-solving. Through 20/20 Leadership specifically, I learned that leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room but about listening, understanding each individual’s different ideas, and helping a group move toward a common goal. 

In the future, I hope to continue demonstrating leadership by carrying the lessons I have been taught into every environment I step foot in. I want to be a leader who creates a positive change, whether it’s by mentoring younger athletes, helping my community, or taking a chance in new opportunities. My goal is to model the same encouragement, dedication, and inclusiveness that others have shown me. Most importantly, I want to remain a leader who works. I don’t want to just be someone who says they’ll do something, but someone who proves it. Someone who lifts others, works hard, and leads with integrity. Through every sport, club, and leadership opportunity, I have learned that being a leader is a responsibility and a privilege. These experiences have shaped who I am today and will continue guiding the kind of leader I strive to become in the future.