What is the leADERS program?

The goal of the ODU leADERS program is to connect students and real-world experiences. There are six opportunities in the leADERS program: (L)eadership, (A)cademic Internship, (D)iversity, (E)ntrepreneurship, (R)esearch, and (S)ervice Learning.  Using WordPress® allows me to showcase my experiences and accomplishments that facilitated my personal and professional development throughout the program in my specific areas; Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Academic Internship, Diversity and Research.

Why did I choose to join the leADERS program?

I chose to join the leADERS program as a way to challenge myself and remind myself how far I have come in my academic career. I had heard great experiences from the current members at school information events. I had three areas of the program complete when I was accepted which was a big motivator for me. This program was a great opportunity to explore different disciplines within my major and minors.

What were my challenges?

My challenges were experiences that were outside of my comfort zone. For example, my weakness is public speaking. For my Entrepreneurship experience, French for Business, I was faced with a presentation that involved my unique ideas in building and proposing a business venture. I seized the opportunity to plan and discuss in detail my plans for my future mental retreat facility and received feedback on it in a supportive environment.

Final Thoughts

I am thankful to be a leADERS candidate as I believe that it gave enriching opportunities that boosted my confidence and ambition to succeed further in both my academic and professional career. This program paired perfectly with my leadership trainings through NSLS and I am grateful for the connections that I have made with this opportunity.