Machines by Benjamin

Machines by Benjamin - March 2015 Scholarship Essay

Leadership has always been a fuzzy concept to me.

I think that most people’s perception of what leadership is twisted. It’s something that we've made bigger than us, something that is only for the “chosen” few. To me leadership just means doing what’s best to help benefit society. I think that’s truly what the essence of what defines success in college too. Without making strides to help benefit society in whatever way possible, the point of getting a job or gaining an education is truly obsolete.

College success and leadership are dependent on one another. Without being a leader both in and out the classroom, there is truly no success in both aspects. But, that being stated, leadership isn't necessarily taking a “captain” or even leader role in every situation. A great leader doesn't always play the role of a leader, but rather has perfect timing to know which role to play in certain situations. A lot of situations and projects both in education and life parallels the inner workings of a machine. Sure, each cog seems insignificant on it’s own, but putting all those cogs together is what can power engines to achieve something truly remarkable. Being a leader means knowing when to step back in order to help run a well oiled machine, while always being able to take charge when necessary. In college, I think that owning those kinds of skills can not only propel my own career and college success, but rather helps benefits college communities as a whole. Doing the little things right as a leader is the only way to achieve success not only in the classroom, but rather all aspect of college life.

I never really viewed myself as a leader when I was younger. I always believed in working hard and helping others when I could, but didn't think much of it. Everything changed when I was assigned to be captain the cross country team at my high school. I was thrown into the deep end, and was forced to learn how to be a good leader by trial and error. Even through my mistakes, I really do value the experience of being defined as a “leader” because it taught me skills I use every single day. It taught me that pushing people around me to their maximum potential while trying to be successful in my own life is a delicate balance. It taught me that leadership isn't some grandiose gesture that can be achieved by a single effort, but learning those little skills in order to achieve that perfect balance. But, in the end I think that’s what contributed to who I am today, and I think that experience is going to truly help me be successful through my college experience. Without certain leadership skills, I truly believe success in college isn't achievable.