Leadership Reflection from Ghana:

Studying abroad is something that in a cheesy way, really makes you find out who you are. When a person leaves the confines of their comfortable lifestyle they become forced out of the mold which others have made. In my time in Africa I have found that I have also changed a bit from what others believe I am to be. I am very much a team player and avoid conflict at all costs, but I also hold strong opinions and frustration when things don't get done. With that I believe that the most I have gained on a personal level is a bit more of the ability to be me.

With that is a leadership quality that I never knew I had. I used to be of a timid nature in groups, and now I find myself stepping out more with direction. Elon is a place of leaders, and I have encountered the opposite in my groups here. There is a stronger need for someone to step up, and I have found that it's something I remain comfortable in doing. From that I have taken on the ability to essentially be a leader when there is no one else to do so. I am fine with following and do so often when I'm back home for the fact that it seems people know what they are doing.

However, in the instance where a small group of us were in a village speaking with some elders I was the one in charge. On a trip to Africa where I was the only one who has studied the continent I became the leader with all the answers and questions to pose to the elders of the village. I have never had so much fun in a question and answer session, but at the same time I was glad to have such a background so represent the group. It's not about the fact that I was the talker; it's that I could help the others learn by posing the right questions. Also, the elders were able to see how much people from other places know of and what to help their continent.

Thus, from it all I was able to find my time to step in the leadership role which I've been spending the last 3 years working towards. I became not only a follower in times necessary (like while on safari), but also an educated leader to help through the cultural exchange. In all it was the most rewarding, educational, breathtaking and personal developing month of my life. J