A skill I have developed over the last few years is leadership, and it has shaped me both personally and professionally. Before starting college, I was a relatively shy and anti-social  person with very little job experience. I often found it difficult to put myself in new or uncomfortable situations, and I didn’t see myself as someone who could step into leadership roles. However, since beginning college, I have had to go out of my shell multiple times. Working different jobs on and off campus has challenged me to grow in ways I never imagined. These experiences taught me how to manage my time effectively, adapt quickly when plans change, and balance multiple responsibilities at once. Most importantly, this gave me the confidence to engage with people no matter the situation, starting that first conversation which was something I used to avoid.

One role that has been especially transformative in developing my leadership skills is being a Resident Advisor in West College. This is my second year in this position, I loved it so much that I chose to return to the role again this year. The RA position is often seen as challenging, and sometimes it has a reputation among students as being strict or unpopular. However, I have always viewed it as an opportunity to create a meaningful impact on my residents’ lives. As an RA, I plan and host events that build community, mediate conflicts between residents, and serve as a resource for students navigating both personal and academic challenges. I am responsible for ensuring that the living environment is welcoming, safe, and supportive, and this has pushed me to think about how my actions and decisions affect those around me.

Through this role, I have learned how to be approachable and empathetic while also maintaining responsibility and professionalism. There have been times when I’ve had to support a student going through a personal struggle or be a resource to a clueless freshman, and those moments taught me how important it is to be a calm, steady presence for others. At the same time, planning programs and events has strengthened my creativity, time management, and organizational skills.

Overall, being a Resident Advisor has allowed me to grow into a more confident and adaptable leader. It has shown me that leadership is not just about giving direction but about listening, supporting others, and building trust. I know the skills I’ve gained in this role will continue to guide me in my academic journey and in my future career in medicine.