Response Questions: Sept 13

1. Motive is the central element of the Divine centered Leadership Model. Please describe what motivates you to volunteer as a leader in BYUSA.

When I first joined BYUSA in 2007, I initially intended to volunteer my time and effort in order to contribute my ideas to benefit the students. I also felt it was a great way for me to practice advertising since I intended that to be my future major. In the same sense, when I began volunteering again after my mission, I wanted to be part of a group who also developed creative and effective advertisements to help promote service across campus. I did not join BYUSA intending to be a leader. Becoming the Assistant to the President of Communications was not a position I strongly desired to have, mainly because of the large time and energy commitment required. However, I felt it was the next step for me to grow and contribute my talents by helping communicate to BYU students the opportunities for them to serve and to promote the divine-centered vision of BYUSA. I am grateful for my opportunity to be in a leadership position, but am more grateful for those I associate within the office because of their examples of leadership and service.

2. In the Quote that was a part of last nights discussion, Theodore Roosevelt gives credit in life to those who are “In the Arena.” Describe what you think it means to be in the Arena, and how you plan to be involved this year and throughout your lives.

To be "In the Arena" is to be a fully-invested participant. If you want something done, you cannot be a spectator. You have to get into the situation expecting to give whole heart, mind, and strength; sweat a little, get dirt on your face, and you may get hurt, but you'll get back up and do better.

The way I plan to be "In the Arena" this year in BYUSA, is to be fully focused on my duty and responsibilities in my area. I will remind myself of the vision so that all my projects and efforts reflect the purpose the organization as a whole. I also want to be sure I concentrate my time in the office to the duties expected of me so that project are carried out quickly and efficiently. And as many ideas I have and as much as I would want to take a lot of the credit for the accomplishments this school year in Communications, I also want to allow other student volunteers in the office the same amount of opportunities and growth available.

In applying the concept of being "In the Arena" to the rest of life, when faced with a challenge or an opportunity for growth, I want to put forth my whole heart into it and to not be afraid to get hurt, tired, stumble, or fail. As long as I persevered until I have accomplish what was necessary, I know that I have done what I needed to do.

3. Divine-centered leaders need to know each heart. Describe an experience you have had with a leader who has taken time to know you. How did their efforts improve your experience? How can you reach out to those you lead?

My Young Women's President!! I love her dearly! When I was the Laurel's president, I worked with her closely to understand the needs of the girls in Young Women. She supported me in my calling, but also was interested in my schooling, work, dance, family, and boy life. She was not just a leader, but also a friend for me. I really appreciated her love expressed for me because there were times when I did not feel like anyone else cared about me. I remember one particular time during my senior year of high school that she took me out to lunch. I will always cherish her friendship and Christlike example of knowing individuals and knowing what I needed. Because of her example, it encouraged me to be more focused on the girls I was to focus on and serve in our Young Women, especially in Laurels. She helped me know how to be a good friend, gain trust and respect, and to express love and gratitude for those I was called to serve.

I hope to be the same leader to those I serve in the BYUSA office by not just seeing myself over an area and over people, but to understand each individuals' needs and be their friend. I don't want to just lead, but also follow. I feel that I can learn a lot from those that are in the office, even if they only come into the office once a week as part of a committee. I am excited for those that I will be meet throughout the semester and hope to gain a stronger character because of the examples around me.