Throughout the MPH program, I have had the pleasure of honing and sharpening my leadership skills.
First, in the two years of studying in the ODU MPH program, I was the team captain for the Old Dominion University NCAA Division I Swim Team. Swimming has been a crucial aspect in my life — it has brought me to Old Dominion and has allowed me to lead in ways I have never imagined I would have been able to. I have been honored to be a member of the team for the six years that I have been at Old Dominion and to lead the team to new / better heights. While in this leadership position, I have learned that everyone responds under different conditions and altering one’s leadership style is paramount in ensuring both the team’s and the individual’s success.
Additionally, I have also been honored to serve as the President and Vice-President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). SAAC serves as the official voice of student-athletes from every represented sport. SAAC is equivalent to a student government association for all of the athletes at Old Dominion. Through SAAC, I have been able to have a say in the majority of proposed changes to the NCAA — including the addition of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) where student-athletes at all levels are able to be compensated and market their brand / name. SAAC has shown me organizational leadership and how multiple facets must collaborate to ensure that progress and agendas move toward success.
Finally, while studying in the MPH program at ODU, I have been working in the hospital as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist, where I administer radioactive materials to patients for diagnostic and therapeutic examinations. This work, unlike the work with the swim team and SAAC, has taught me to work well with others in high stress situations. Every single day, we (as a team at the hospital) work towards bettering the lives of our patients and must ensure we are doing the best we can to pursue the most favorable outcome. This requires patience, diligence, and empathy. This position has allowed me to further understand character roles within a team and how to work successfully for the good of others.
