How to Apply Leadership Philosophy in College
Sometimes individuals are thrown into a leadership role with a new job promotion or as an elder family member. Other times, however, individuals seek leadership roles in order to guide, influence and support the people around them. College leadership roles may come in the academic setting, through leading classroom discussions or helping classmates with course work. Other leadership roles may be more social, such as the campus ball organizer or the head of an intramural sports team. Different people have different leadership philosophies, but within those philosophies certain people skills are consistent.
Instructions
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Academic Leadership
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Participate during seminars, lectures, labs and tutorials in a way that speaks for your quieter classmates. For example, if you do not think your professor has made a clear point, ask him to explain it further so that you and the rest of the class can understand. Many students may simply let the topic rest and accept their confusion, but you can lead as an advocate for your fellow classmates.
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Bring unique ideas to class discussions. Some of your classmates may tend to stay strictly in the confines of the professor's lecture and viewpoint, but you can add to the discussion by challenging the topic from a different angle. Your professor will likely appreciate the fact that you've instigated a multifaceted intellectual discussion. Your classmates will likely learn more and be more inspired to participate. Make sure you are always respectful in the way you communicate in the classroom. According to the University of Texas at Brownsville website's section on leadership philosophy, good verbal communication skills are an essential quality of a strong leader.
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Organize academic events or groups that represent the area of study you're passionate about. For example, if you are passionate about politics, work with the head of your department and/or the school events organizer to bring a local politician to your college to speak. Or, if you are passionate about Russian literature, start an official Russian literature club.
Social Leadership
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Seek out new friends in all opportunities. For example, sit by somebody new in the campus dining hall or start up a conversation with someone that sits by you in class. Leaders tend to enjoy meeting and exchanging ideas with a wide range of people. Do not confine yourself to a certain group of friends or campus clique such as a fraternity or a sorority.
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Approach all activities with optimism. According to eCampusTours.com, leaders must be optimistic in order to show others you're reliable even during tough times. Optimism can be spread easily in as simple a way as smiling at others during group activities. For example, if you are organizing a charity event for your school and the band arrives late, an optimistic attitude will keep the spirits of the event staff up and focused on the successful aspects of the event.
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Say "yes" to almost every opportunity that comes your way. Get as involved in campus life as possible. This will greatly increase your chances of falling into leadership roles where you can thrive. Also, the more you participate in campus activities the more qualified you'll become to lead the activities in the future.
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References
- Photo Credit LEADER UOMO image by Marco from Fotolia.com
