I started my college career proudly telling the board of the club I was a member of that I was a follower, not a leader. I felt that my role was to support from the crowd, while someone else did the leadership and organizing.
And then, something changed at the end of my sophomore year. At the same time, I applied to be the internal PR of that club, and to be an orientation leader the next fall. I don’t know why, but I had suddenly decided that if these things terrified me, then I needed to do them.
Thank goodness I did, because both experiences turned me into the person I am today. I became a leader, with big ideas, learned about serving those around me, and felt the adrenaline rush every time I put my natural talents to work. These are the experiences that got me my first job right out of college. These are the experiences that taught me what it feels like to be so passionate about a group of people and an institution. I look back now with a heart that might burst at all the beautiful things I got to be a part of.
But on the other hand: I learned when to say NO to opportunities as well. The year after, I ran for Vice President of the club and won the race. Friends of mine from the Commuting Students Association asked me to join their team too. I was flattered and genuinely considered it. In the end, I decided that my heart was with the club I was already serving, and that if I tried to do both, I couldn’t give my all to either organization. My friends were upset, but I had to stick to my decision. I had learned that I did my best work when I was focused on one project, not spread out. My year as Vice President was difficult, but it was also the most enjoyable stress I have ever experienced. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
The moral of the story is that if it scares you, do it. BUT, don’t be afraid to say no, so you can focus on a few important parts of your life.
Guess what? This story and others like it will be in our upcoming book, First Year Student to First Year Success! Sign up below to receive updates about when it comes out 🙂
