At the end of the Leadership ELR experience, students submit a capstone reflection paper. These reflections capture meaningful insights, personal growth, and lessons learned through their leadership journey. Below are excerpts that highlight the impact of their experience in their own words.
“Overall, this leadership experience has been transformative. It helped me see leadership not as a position, but as a responsibility to foster collaboration, uphold standards, and adapt to challenges with integrity. I’ve become more confident, more self-aware, and more reflective. I now understand leadership as a deeply relational process – one that evolves with feedback, tension, and shared goals.” Mason Esworthy, Spring 2025 Participant
“My leadership philosophy now is that even a hierarchical structure can be collaborative in nature, especially when making significant decisions. Leadership entails making space and time for others and delegating tasks even with essential responsibilities. My overall self-efficacy as a leader has increased, and I am more confident in all leadership experiences, including simple projects or teams in an academic setting.” Katrina Papierman, Spring 2025 Participant
“My experience in this role stretched my skills in conflict resolution, event coordination, and relationship-building. My role directly impacted the group by creating a culture of support and belonging. My philosophy of leadership centers on shared purpose and empowerment, viewing leadership as a learning process where leaders and members collaborate to kickstart change.” Ela Pease, Fall 2024 L-ELR Participant
“My self-efficacy has grown significantly. I’ve gained more confidence in my ability to lead by realizing that leadership is a dynamic, collaborative process where adaptability, communication, and empathy are key. As I’ve taken on more responsibility and seen the impact of my actions on others, I’ve become more confident in my decision-making and problem-solving skills, knowing I can inspire and empower others to achieve shared goals.” Chloe Capone, Fall 2024 L-ELR Participant
“Knowing one’s strengths and weaknesses can be a blessing, knowledge that you are stronger suited in one area of your life, while in another you need help and support. Being a leader does not mean you have to do it all on your own, asking for help is always ok. That is something that has taken me a while in my life to accept that help from others makes you a stronger leader altogether.” Caroline Morin, Fall 2023 Leadership ELR Participant
“This experience has had a profound impact on my development as a leader. The understanding of leadership as a relational process has deepened, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, diversity, and constant improvement.” Brendan Gallagher, Fall 2023 Leadership ELR Participant
“My direct involvement in guiding and motivating a team fosters an appreciation for the importance of relationships, effective communication, and collaboration. Learning to navigate interpersonal dynamics, provide support, and make decisions that consider the well-being of the team were integral aspects of my leadership development.” Maya Phinney, Fall 2023 Leadership ELR Participant