Leadership is the Foundation for Success by Victoria

Leadership is the Foundation for Success by Victoria - March 2015 Scholarship Essay

Leadership skills are an essential foundation for success. In any career, leadership is essential to work efficiently with others. A strong leader should motivate their team members by both encouragement and example. A leader should be focused, passionate, and committed to the goals of the group. As an undergraduate student, I am dedicated to preparing myself for my ultimate goal as a woman in leadership at a non-profit company.

My studies in the International Baccalaureate program at Suncoast High School, along with my extracurricular activities and communication skills, have enabled me to realize my passion for leadership. In my studies in the IB program, I thrived amongst my peers during presentations and found myself able to articulate and organize my thoughts naturally during my speech. With each written assignment, I grew as a student and was able to take on more difficult academic challenges. My involvement in acting and theatre began at a very young age and developed me early on as a public speaker, writer, and team member. Over time, I became particularly interested in the production and business aspects of the theatre. I initially became involved in theatre by volunteering at a local non-profit business, when I accepted an unpaid internship with the managing director of the Maltz Jupiter Theatre in Jupiter, Florida. I interacted with donors, helped organize fundraising events, and became involved in business development and marketing. Eventually, I became the marketing director and produced their high school shows each summer.

Most importantly, at the Maltz Jupiter Theatre, I developed skills such as efficiency, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic, which has enabled me to take on leadership positions within my own high school. These skills have become the building blocks of who I am today. With hard work and dedication, I became the assistant director for two full length musicals, the president of Big Brother/Big Sister at Bethune Elementary in Riviera Beach, FL and the president and founder of Suncoast Secret Shepherds, a club that volunteers with local kids in foster care. I quickly realized that I had strong leadership skills, and was able to organize tasks and think critically under pressure. As a result, my peers and teachers entrusted me and supported me in every position I achieved. I have undertaken every activity with zeal. Whether it's my clubs or the theatre, I am always working towards developing myself, my peers, and my community. As I expand upon my leadership skills in college, I will become a more qualified and effective businesswoman in the corporate, non-profit, world.

Good leadership skills provide students, like myself, with the foundation they need to thrive in the workplace. During my senior year of high school, I have continually worked toward my goal of becoming a successful businesswoman. When touring colleges, I was inspired by many school's dedication to civic service. Community service is something that I am passionate about, and want to integrate into my career. For me, my leadership skills with help me impact my college and the surrounding community in a meaningful and successful way.