Leadership by Micaela

Leadership by Micaela - November 2020 Scholarship Essay

When I was a sophomore, I decided to join my school's Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. The first day, I waited outside the building filled with nervousness. I thought I was not prepared to be a part of such a rigorous and challenging organization. I counted to three and entered the building. The first thing we did was go around the room and introduce ourselves. At this point in my life I had not had many public speaking opportunities, so, once it was my turn, I stuttered out my name and favorite color. A wave of embarrassment then came over me. After a few weeks passed I began to feel more comfortable and made some friends. The organization participated in many events, such as community service and drill. I attended every community service event and even started to plan our events. I eventually was promoted to squad leader of our platoon. As a squad leader, I oversaw cadets in my squad and relayed all important information to them. By junior year I earned three awards from the program and the rank of Lance Corporal. Also, in my junior year, I was the community service representative for the program. This role included calling different organizations to see how our program could help. Now that I am in my senior year, I am a platoon commander. This is the highest position in the organization that a student can hold. I am extremely grateful that I was chosen for the position.
Joining JROTC has taught me more about myself than any other organization. I have learned that I have greater leadership potential. Being a leader in the program has helped me gain an extensive amount of public speaking. In addition, I have also had the opportunity to build on my leadership skills. The organization has influenced me to continue being a leader in the future. Leadership means so much more to me than directing someone else. It means having the courage to be yourself, inspiring others, and learning from your mistakes.