Steve Rogers and Leadership by Rowan

Steve Rogers and Leadership by Rowan - June 2022 Scholarship Essay

Steve Rogers and Leadership

Steven Rogers is my favorite Avenger. He is the classic underdog, a loyal friend, a good man, and an amazing superhero. He is smart, strong, kind, brave, funny, and an amazing tactician. However, one of his most valuable traits, in my opinion, is his excellent leadership, guiding those around him no matter what situation he is in. His example in leadership has helped me become a better leader by giving me insight and confidence.

One of the first things that makes Steve such a good leader are his skills of observance. He pays attention, even to the minute details that no one else finds important. He scans his surroundings for clues and insight, he reads people and their emotions, he listens to what people say, and he makes sure he understands the information being given to him (for example, he made sure to read the Accords before making an opinion). By paying attention to all the information available to him, he is able to gain a big picture understanding of the situation. This is very important for leadership because if you are going to be directing people and deciding who needs to do what, you need to be able to see where each person’s individual skill set will be most valuable.

Another skill that Steve has that makes him a good leader is his ability to adapt. As his situation changes, he is able to modify his plans and actions so that the goal can still be accomplished. He is also adaptable to different social situations. He knows when to be strong and bold, when to be kind and vulnerable, when to take a stand, and when to let others lead. This ability allows him to cooperate with lots of very different people, in lots of different situations. Adaptable communication is one of a leader’s most necessary skills. If you cannot communicate, you will not be able to get anything done.

The third trait I think makes Steve such an amazing leader is his persistence. He will work until the job is done. No matter how many times he has to adapt his strategy, he never gives up. This hardworking, persistent, patient attitude is essential to a leader who wants those traits exemplified in their team. Leaders must set an example, and be the rallying point, for their team. A strong, persistent, hardworking leader will be successful, not because they do everything for their team, but because they are a strong foundation for their team to build on.

Seeing these different traits exemplified in Steve, and seeing their effectiveness, I have learned their importance to leadership. I have learned that a good leader needs to pay attention, be flexible, and be persistent. I have applied this to my own life especially in the last year as stage crew manager for my school’s theater production. I pay attention to what needs to be done, other people’s ideas, and each person’s specific skills in order to help me create a plan that makes sure we accomplish all of our goals. I adapt when accidents and unforeseen circumstances occur, and I make sure the job gets done. And so, just like Steve leads the Avengers to victory, I was able to lead the stage crew in successfully putting on our fall theater production!