LeADERS at Old Dominion University is a professional development and leadership program made to help students grow beyond the classroom by intentionally developing career building skills. Through a combination of coursework, experiential learning, reflection, and engagement opportunities. LeADERS focuses on things like leadership, ethical decision making, communication, teamwork, and self-awareness. The program encourages students to connect their academic experiences with real world professional expectations.

My experience in LeADERS has been significant to my professional development because it pushed me to reflect on how I learn, lead, and contribute in team and professional environments. Through the classes I had to take for the LeADERS program I strengthened skills like critical thinking, written and verbal communication, time management, and accountability. Cybersecurity professionals must not only understand technical systems, but also communicate risk clearly, work collaboratively, and make ethical decisions that impact a lot of people.