The True Definition of Leadership by Emily

The True Definition of Leadership by Emily - February 2017 Scholarship Essay

I opened the mailbox. There it was. The envelope holding my National Honor Society (NHS) acceptance or rejection. I apprehensively opened the letter, hopeful that I would be accepted. All I could think about was the enormous amount of effort I had devoted to my schoolwork and after school activities. I had been working toward this moment my entire high school career. My eyes immediately went to the first sentence. My heart sank. NHS rejected me due to a lack of leadership. Shocked, the letter fell from my fingers and I immediately began to question myself and my abilities as a student. My parents tried to comfort me by proclaiming how proud they were, but I couldn’t believe them. I was devastated.
Quietly confident in my academic achievements, I knew I was not an overt leader. The days following the arrival of my letter, left me pondering the meaning of leadership and how I could apply it to my life. Always an optimistic person, I was determined to learn from this experience. I met with the advisor of NHS to receive advice on expanding my leadership roles, and discovered I could reapply in the fall. With this goal in mind, I began an unexpected journey toward my own personal growth.
I became committed to learning what leadership meant to me by seeking out new opportunities. French Honor Society announced nominations for office for the 2016/2017 school year. Prior to my rejection from NHS, I would never have considered running for office. Challenging myself in a way I never dreamed possible, I ran for French Honor Society office.
When the election results were announced, I breathed a sigh of relief to see my name listed as Vice President. I was well on my way to NHS acceptance.
Searching for more ways to experience leadership, I applied for a job. I began working at Subway and observed first hand through my manager the qualities it takes to be a leader such as commitment and confidence. I learned through customer interaction, that leadership can be as simple as asserting myself. Confidence and assertiveness are key qualities that apply to all areas of life.
As I was considering the important qualities of leadership and what they mean, I witnessed the true definition of leadership. While shadowing an elementary teacher, she was helping two children solve a disagreement. As tears were being shed between two children, I made a monumental discovery, that leadership is a significant component of teaching. Leadership isn’t solely directing others; it means being a role model and mentor. An amazing teacher is an amazing leader. Only at this point did I internalize and comprehend the true meaning and importance of being a leader. It was no longer about just getting accepted into NHS, it was about aspiring to become a positive role model and impactful leader.
Subsequently a position for band captain became available and I enthusiastically jumped at the opportunity. I was dedicated to the music department and just knew I would be a positive role model for younger band members. I eagerly awaited as the band captains were announced and was thrilled to hear my name. I was eager to start a new venture of leadership in the same environment that had fostered my own love of music.
Although extremely disappointed by the initial rejection, this experience forced me to step outside my comfort zone to become a leader. My determination and positive personality allowed me to persevere. These leadership opportunities shaped my personal growth and character, as well as my future as an elementary school teacher. I now have the courage to be a dynamic role model and inspire the minds of my future students. Regardless of the fact that I was accepted to NHS, I am proud of my growth and the skills I have acquired from overcoming this challenge.