Learning to be a Leader by David

Davidof Farmville's entry into Varsity Tutor's December 2016 scholarship contest

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David of Farmville, VA
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Learning to be a Leader by David - December 2016 Scholarship Essay

All of us gathered Bondurant Auditorium. Dressed alike, in white t-shirts and navy shorts, we had little understanding of what the week at Boys' State would bring. Each of us had been carefully chosen from our schools to attend the model state government program held at Radford University. Some of us would love the experience; others would be home-sick. Some of us would emerge as leaders.

I knew from the time I was selected to attend Boys' State that I wanted a leadership role. Until I got to Radford, however, I didn't understand the strategy and the work it would take to achieve that goal. That lesson came quickly as we immediately were divided up into our cities. From the relationships made within the cities, plans were formed to elect leaders. I was elected to the Boys' State Senate, of the 700+ citizens, one of 28.

As senators, we discussed issues important to the citizens. Some issues were universally concerning. Other issues were more important to various geographic regions. As I discussed and debated the issues, I learned that it was important to balance my firmly held beliefs with openness and compassion for other's views. At times, I was surprised that some of my beliefs weren't so firmly held.

As a senator, I had the power and the responsibility to make various appointments. This required getting to know many of the citizens at Boys' State. We were a diverse group. But, I learned that despite our differences, we could work together to run our state well.

The Boys' State experience opened my eyes to the view points of young men from all over Virginia. It taught me that a diversity of views is important to a well-run government. I was pushed to seek out those who believed as I did, while also required to reach out to those whose opinions were different. These are lessons that will serve me well as I go through life.

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