To Lead or Not to Lead? by Sierra

To Lead or Not to Lead? by Sierra - March 2015 Scholarship Essay

Each and every student worldwide experiences college differently. We are all unique people with different experiences, skill sets, and goals. Experiences eventually come to shape our skills, and in turn these skills are used to achieve the goals we want to reach. Many students enter their college career wondering what skills they need to graduate with honors or what they should know to gain admittance to their dream graduate program. Often times, undergraduates are told they need to be great leaders to attain their goals. Unfortunately, I believe this approach may discourage many pupils who believe they do not have the necessary skills to be leaders.

Now, we must answer the age-old question, “Are you a leader or a follower”. I believe this question is too general and poorly categorizes students. Instead we should ask ourselves if our skill sets are flexible enough to be leaders when necessary or to be led when the occasion calls for it. To realize successful in college, or in our future careers, some may think we need to have the ability to guide our peers to success. However, it is equally important to able to be led and take instruction or criticism well. Being successful does not always mean the student always plays the role of the general in battle. Sometimes, success heavily depends on working well with and respecting teammates or colleagues. Although leadership skills can be learned and honed through activities with classmates, this particular skill is not necessary for success in the college atmosphere.

Sometimes being a so-called “follower” is required for a group to meet their goals. Having the flexibility, or skills, to work as part of a team laboring to achieve a common goal yields much greater success than only possessing the ability to lead. Being successful in college is determined by one’s own state of mind, beliefs, and personal skills. Leadership skills are not necessary for success in college; a well-rounded skill set and the ability to set goals are the best tools for students to accomplish their dreams.