School and year: Penn State University, ’16
Major: Civil Engineering
Leadership position: President of the Student Government Association
How do you define leadership?
Leadership, to me, is being someone that people can go to in a time of need. Being someone that everyone will look up to and strive to be like. Leadership is responsibility, courage, trust, and heart. To be a good leader, you have to have the backbone to stand up for what you believe in and be able to inspire others.
When things in your leadership position get particularly stressful, what helps you through it?
When my leadership role is stressful, thinking of all the good that I can accomplish in this role is what helps me through it all. Helping others and service to others is the true key to being happy. Seeing the smiling faces of those that have been helped, by not just me, but by anyone and everyone makes me smile. I just can’t help it. Making others feel good is the key to making yourself feel good. A new car, a new house, or even a million dollars cant do that.
What’s one experience (any kind!) that you think everyone should have?
One experience that I think everyone should have is, like I previously stated, service to others. Making things happen for people will give such a good feeling about yourself. Looking upon them and seeing the joy that you have brought them will ultimately grant you the same joy that you have given to them.
What is your go-to happy song and why?
My go-to happy song would have to be “Don’t Stop Believing” by journey. Journey is my favorite band. Their music is just so uplifting, and it makes you feel so relaxed. The title, “Don’t Stop Believing”, speaks for itself. You can never stop believing. “Nothing was ever accomplished, if it was not first a dream.” – Jim Valvano
What is your number one take away from DFT?
My number one take way from DFT would have to be, “There are no such things as zero’s.” I learned that everyone has the potential to be involved, and no one can be a zero. Being involved on campus, or whatever you do is very important. If you stay active, it keeps your mind sharp, you’ll meet some amazing people, and most importantly you’ll have loads of fun!
