To Lead, Or Not To Lead? That Is The Question. by Katherine

To Lead, Or Not To Lead? That Is The Question. by Katherine - March 2015 Scholarship Essay

Leadership skills are essential in the work place. While developing leadership skills to prepare for the working world is important, it is not necessary while in college. The skills one needs to be successful in college are managerial skills. This is not to say that acquiring leadership skills during the years of schooling is not important. Leadership is important; however, it is not necessary for success in college.

To lead is to inspire others to do their best work. Leading is being a visionary who promotes a mission for the greater good. While these are important skills to have, the everyday minutiae of college days are what students need to master. By utilizing a strong managerial skill set, one can learn to manage time wisely, follow directions and focus on day-to-day assignments. This is how a person becomes a successful college student.

Focusing and committing to excellence in the classroom is the main goal for students in higher education. Of course participation in student life is beneficial because it creates a well-rounded individual, but making the grade is most important in college. Participating in class, studying, and performing well on assessments are necessary for learning and growth. The best way to ensure that this happens is to organize a daily, weekly, and monthly routine. Scheduling time wisely and balancing academics with social life are keys to success. These skills fall into the task oriented realm and reflect good self- regulation and management.

Above all, it is important to acknowledge that not everyone is cut out for leadership. The world is full of successful people who are not leaders. As the saying goes, it is hard to have “too many chiefs and not enough Indians”. College is meant to develop and enhance the person that you are. The experience is intended to promote and develop individuals. One person may be cut out to be a leader, while another may assume a different role. Therefore, not everyone needs to develop and rely on leadership skills to experience a sense of accomplishment.

Leadership skills are important, but they are not necessary to thrive while in the college setting. What it takes for achievement is a strong managerial skill set. Being productive, working well with others, and possessing knowledge of the academic discipline are all abilities that are required to thrive in an academic setting. Utilizing these skills while attending college will aid in student achievement.