College has been a time where I can explore what is important to me, and become my true self.
Before coming to Mason I knew who I was, but it was not until being here for almost two years that I understood who and what I am. As the days go on, I reflect on how I got here to this particular moment in time, and I realize I would not be here without the wonderful opportunities Mason has presented to me. I came in as an excited freshman who just wanted to be involved and share my Mason pride. Fast forward to mid-October freshman year, the LEAD Office presented itself and I have not left since. I realize before LEAD I was just being, and once I got involved I was being and doing things that was important to me, and living in congruence with my personal values.
In the LEAD Office I found my home on campus; somewhere to learn, grow and become a better person. I think the best thing in life is when you realize you do not mind spending all your time in one place, and I found that in LEAD. I love the idea of being empowered and empowering others. I have learned that I can make the most difference by listening to the needs of my peers and providing them with the tools in order to succeed. My favorite thing to do is to lead by example, and the lead office has helped me to do and continue to do so. I have learned the value of not only stating my values but living by them as well. I feel appreciated and heard when I walk into the LEAD office and feel that this is one of the few places I can be my authentic self. As a Leadership Consultant I have been able to look at Mason through a different lens than other students, and have been provided with opportunities to talk to stakeholders, share my experience as a student, and have a voice in the potential change on campus. I have also learned that with my position I also have the power to speak for those who do not the power to do so and serve as an ally. In the LEAD Office I am learning to be a leader that serves others, while also realizing that I do not have to be afraid to ask for help from others. Most importantly I am learning that small instances of positivity and kindness can drastically change someone’s outlook.
From my time as a Leadership Consultant, I have learned a lot about my leadership style and how it affects my daily interactions with others. I love being able to work where everyone cares about their well-being, as well as our commitment to success in any capacity. This support system has allowed me to be able to confidently discuss the topics which are most important to me and articulate why I am so passionate them. Although I have gained different perspective on things, many of my morals and values have been strengthened because of working as a Leadership Consultant. Working in the LEAD Office has given me confidence in all aspect of my life whether it is believing that I have the ability to do something or just be able to stand alone. Here I am able to express what I value, and why it is important to me, but also allow my coworkers to hold me accountable to make sure I am living in congruence.
Working in the LEAD Office I feel that I have been challenged in ways that will help me develop important skills needed to thrive in the work place. Whether it is communicating effectively, being prepared, organized and being cognizant of other people’s time. All of the things that were challenging to me have helped me become a better leader, and taught me ways in which to adapt to situations or look at it from a different perspective. I have learned about work, life, school balance and how to manage to all my commitments; although it has not been an easy task. Every stress-full or low energy moment has been worth the reward of a successful event in the end.
Over all, I would not trade my experiences within LEAD for anything else. They have helped define me, find my passion for leadership and empowerment and commitment to success in any form. They have given me the courage and strength to try new things and have no regrets in the end. They have made me become proud in what I value and try to understand the things I do not. Without LEAD, there would not be a piece of Sasha Pierre- Louis.
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