Lead ~ Serve ~ Learn
Mason's Resource For:
L-E-A-D-E-R
Listen
Speaking out and taking stand is one thing, but keeping an open ear is essential. Don't assume what students want. Go out and ask all types of students for feedback, not just friends or fellow organization members.
Enthusiastic
If you are passionate about the job issues, the enthusiasm will radiate to the rest of the community. A positive attitude and optimism will also go a long way to make the task both fun and effective.
Action
Goals are important, but providing a comprehensive plan of action that explains how to reach those goals is even more so. Parking, campus housing and the lack of school spirit and the popular issues, but they are mentioned year after year during the campaigns. Be creative and take risks in order to find new ways of accomplishing those goals.
Dependability
Students should be able to trust a leader to operate ethically and with their best interests at heart. Fulfilling campaign promises and goals in vital in maintaining student loyalty and confidence.
Educated
You should have a good understanding of the dynamics of student government, how the university operates and as much about different student organizations as possible. A leader should also lead by example in the classroom. If you are too busy with student government and neglected your studies, how can you be a representative of the students, who are here to work toward a degree?
Results
The motivation to hold office should not be for an impressive resume or to satisfy the urge for attention - it should be about getting something positive done. There are true leaders, and then there are people who grab a leadership position as a stepping stone in a their career.
Broadside, Spring 1998.
