Week One

    I registered for this course for a variety of reasons. First of all, I am a public affairs major with a leadership studies minor. It is pretty clear that I enjoy learning about leadership. This class fulfills the Team & Organizational Leadership component for the Leadership Studies minor. I am intrigued by all of the different theories, studies, thoughts, etc. pertaining to leadership. I am also currently taking ESHESA 3573 which is the Senior Capstone Leadership Course with Dr. Barnes. It has been an absolutely incredible experience. It has been a very helpful, engaging class for me this semester. I am very excited to be able to add another leadership course to my schedule as I finish off my undergraduate college career. 
     At this time, I understand leadership as being able to guide other people by your actions, thoughts, and words (setting an example for others to follow). As we all know, this can happen in a variety of ways. Whether it be in a student organization, classroom, or family- there are leaders everywhere. Leadership happens everyday in a variety ways, but we don't necessarily always recognize it. I have been grateful to hold a variety of leadership positions throughout my time in high school and college. I have been able to not only learn a lot about myself, but also the people around me. These opportunities have been very life changing and eye opening for me. I wouldn't trade them for anything. 
     My expectations for myself in this class include: keeping an open mind and listening to other people's points of view (not with the intention to answer, but to understand), learning more about myself in terms of a leader, and finding ways to continue being a leader once I enter the workforce (whether that be directly in my job, volunteer work, etc.). I am a firm believer in that famous old saying- you get out of it what you put into it. I plan to put a lot of effort in this class, so in turn I can get a lot out of it. I am very excited to be a part of this class!