How to Start Being a Leader Today

MyCollegeCalendar.org’s last blog post gave encouragement to high school students who aspire to immediately attend a four-year institution after graduation. Steve Sterling noted that large scholarships (merit-based with need-based also on the way) and financial aid are being offered. In addition, he said private universities are carrying out substantial recruitment efforts. His message was encouraging but he also warned students to be ready to position themselves for offers by achieving top grades, participating in extracurricular activities, and taking on leadership roles.

Colleges Look for Leaders
Colleges desire to recruit students who have demonstrated leadership abilities because it is an excellent indicator of what they can expect from them in the classroom, on campus, and as alumni. For example, while universities want to prepare finance majors for financial jobs, it speaks volumes for their reputation when an alumnus becomes a respected and accomplished leader in the financial field. In addition, leadership qualities show your desire to accomplish goals. Colleges do their best to select those who show the most promise, think of it as choosing which cards to keep in your hand. Proof of leadership makes you a higher card and gives colleges better odds. So if leadership qualities are highly sought after by college recruiters and employers, the question is -- how can you become a leader now?

What is a Leader?
Let’s explore what a leader is. Leaders are people who get things done. They not only achieve things but they create pathways for others to succeed as well. Leaders encourage, inspire, and motivate. Effective leaders are focused and find ways to accomplish their goals. True leaders have integrity and the respect of others. Without this they cannot lead. First, though, leadership begins with passion.

How Can a High School Student Show Leadership?
We often tend to think of leaders as people who are “born that way.” They’re just really confident people, right? So if you weren’t born a leader, how can you become one now? Look to the last line of the last paragraph: “Leadership begins with passion.” What are you passionate about? Basketball? Math? Technology? Literature? Art? Helping others? Use your passion as a motivator to take on leadership roles. If you love it, you’re probably good at it (and vice versa), so there’s your confidence! Who cares if you’re not interested or suited for student government! It’s not the only leadership role available to you as a high school student. Join or start a club. Show your leadership qualities on an athletic team. Join or organize volunteering and fundraising activities. Volunteer for your favorite cause. Take a part-time job in your intended career area. Audition for the school play. If you love drama and don’t win an on-stage part, volunteer to be part of the production. Be involved however you can, take your passion and find a way to do something with it! It’s the first step in becoming a leader and you’ll have fun because you’ll love what you’re doing. Remember, leaders motivate others, but they must first motivate themselves. Leaders are do-ers, not watchers.

Develop Leadership Skills and Open Your Options
Once you take your passion and do something with it you will find the more dedicated you are the faster you’ll grow into your leadership role. You will start to envision new ways to do things and inspire those around you to move in new directions. It all happens step-by-step and is absolutely possible even though you’re “only in high school.” Start developing your leadership skills today and you’ll have better options for college. Use your leadership skills in college and you’ll have better options for careers after graduation. Be a leader in your industry and craft a lifestyle that has wonderful benefits and a career you enjoy. It’s all possible when you take your passions to the next level!

Lynn Mattoon, Content Editor & Career Writer for CollegeJobBank.com, FinancialJobBank.com, and other Beyond.com Career Communities