Leadership in Action by Madison

Leadership in Action by Madison - March 2015 Scholarship Essay

As hundreds of thousands of high school seniors in the nation travel to college this year, everyone knows one thing: some will succeed, and others will fail. It’s the ugly truth we all like to ignore during the leaving home bliss; while we pick out the perfect bedspread and try to bond with our roommates, we close our eyes to the fact that so many young freshmen just like us will be going back home the same year. Several factors can determine the difference between passing freshmen year and returning home, one of which is leadership. Leadership is a basic skill that will allow college freshmen to flourish in many ways. Making the most out of a fresh start, taking control of their lives, and choosing their future all begin with leadership.

One of the things most college freshmen look forward to is that promised fresh start. Speaking as a young woman who grew up in a small town, new people and scenery sounds different and exciting! Leadership makes the transition easier—individuals with sound leadership skills will be able to build friendships and develop a sense of individuality, where some people without these skills will be isolated and find it harder to be happy in their new environment. This sense of belonging and security fostered by leadership will contribute to academic success; happiness will be one less thing to worry about!

Taking control is another vital ingredient in college freshmen success. Many of these new students will be without parents and family for the very first time! Simple things like doing the laundry, making healthy eating choices, and choosing when to study will be new; parents usually make these decisions for their children. Taking charge of their lives is something leadership is sorely needed for; many a freshmen has been lost to excess partying or the dubious freshmen fifteen. Healthy choices like developing good study habits and choosing to attend classes will definitely determine which freshmen will become sophomores.

One of the things I always heard growing up was that I didn’t have to decide what I wanted to be “right now.” But the time has come; I only have a few months, maybe a year before I need to get serious about my chosen career (which at the moment is nursing). I’m not alone; several college freshmen will enter school with an undecided major. Leadership will aid students in keeping a clear head and making a serious life decision: what we choose to get an education for. Without leadership, years and classes could be wasted without an optimal result.

Leadership is something every college freshmen needs to pack before leaving home for the first time. This valuable trait will not only make the college experience better, but improve the end result: a fantastic education that adequately prepares a student for their life ahead.