Although I will be graduating from the Presidential Leadership Academy this coming May, I am certain that the leadership and critical thinking skills I have gained will not be left behind. The skillset I have acquired through classroom discussions, listening to remarkable speakers, and first hand implementation via clubs and organizations will provide a strong foundation for my journey after Penn State. Indeed, these experiences have prompted me to challenge my way of thinking and step out of my comfort zone. The maturity that has ensued will position me well for continued growth in both my personal and professional life. Taking the initiative, demonstrating care, and getting involved with the local community are just three of the many ways I plan on exhibiting my leadership and critical thinking skills upon graduation from the Academy.
Being present is simply not enough for a leader. A leader goes beyond just showing up, and doing what is asked. A leader takes the initiative, a tendency I will undoubtedly sustain in my future endeavors. One way to do this at my future employer is through broadening my exposure into other areas of the supply chain (and company), beyond the mere scope of my work. Supply chain is an incredibly broad function in a company as it crosses business segments and encompasses everything from procurement of the raw materials to delivery of finished products to the consumer. Taking the initiative to ask questions and learn about cross-functional counterparts will demonstrate my thirst for knowledge, concurrently strengthen my own understanding, and build upon my foundational knowledge. Hearing from these diverse perspectives will also enable me to think critically and consider a variety of different approaches toward my own tasks. As David Shribman, Executive Editor of Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, stated on our PLA trip, there is “nothing more boring than to agree with yourself.” In order to progress as a leader in any company, one must not be afraid to take the initiative, ask relevant questions, and seek out ways to get more involved. In line with involvement, I hope to assist the college recruiting team by returning to the Penn State Career Fair where I will educate others on the company, and help find the next generation of talented employees. I also plan to join supplemental project teams and/or try other roles beyond my assigned scope so that I can develop new skills, challenge myself intellectually, continue building my network, and perhaps even discover a new interest. The summation of these initiatives will position me well for continued growth as a critical thinker and leader.
Among the many highlights of my time in the Presidential Leadership Academy, has been my exposure to distinguished speakers who are leaders in their respective fields. The unique perspectives that each speaker shared toward leadership have collectively enriched my understanding of the topic, while furthering my appreciation for the diversity in leadership styles. One of my favorite presenters was Dimitri Shiry, a Managing Partner at Deloitte who the PLA was fortunate to meet with on the Fall 2015 trip to Pittsburgh, PA. Mr. Shiry expressed that leadership is simple – a leader has followers. He then proceeded to discuss 4 reasons that people follow: (1) out of trust/confidence (2) belief that the leader is going to make them better (3) the leader excels with skills that the follower aspires (4) the leader cares. Although these reasons seem straightforward and simplistic, they appropriately highlight the importance and responsibilities of leaders to develop others. Though I will not be in an official leadership position upon starting my full-time job this August, I can still exhibit the traits that followers seek. Namely, I can share knowledge that I have learned from a class at Penn State or previous co-op/internship when I see that it could really benefit my peers. I can demonstrate trust through meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. And perhaps simplest of all, I can show that I care. Though I do not recall the exact phrasing, Mr. Shiry shared the following powerful statement that continues to resonate with me: “No one will care how you know, until you show them how you care.” In sum, one need not carry an official leadership title to exhibit qualities that provoke followers and build trust.
Finally, I plan to exhibit the qualities of a leader and critical thinker beyond the professional world. Indeed, I aspire to be a leader in my community, especially eager to better the lives of those in need. Given the little familiarity that I have with the new town I will be moving to, I deem it necessary to start off on the right foot by getting involved, and getting involved early. Regardless of what form this takes – volunteering at a food bank, taking part in Habitat for Humanity, supporting a church-sponsored event, or perhaps even serving as a referee for youth sports – I want to immerse myself in the community in which I live. Doing so will allow me to give back, demonstrate my care, and develop my network. Enriching my life outside of work through meaningful service will assist in fulfilling the life I want to live inside of work – one of compassion, collaboration, and inspiration.
As I reflect on my past three years in the Presidential Leadership Academy, I cannot help but feel grateful for the number of opportunities I had to mature as a leader. From the class led by former President, Dr. Rodney Erickson, to the educational immersions in Philadelphia, Puerto Rico, and Pittsburgh, my time in the Academy has been incredibly rewarding. With critical thinking at the core of the Academy, I feel both equipped and encouraged to consider a breadth of perspectives when devising solutions and making decisions. Thanks to the Presidential Leadership Academy and all my endeavors at Penn State, I anticipate a smooth and effective transition into the workplace.
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