Be A Leader at ISU

Jessica Robertson, Junior

Q: How did you first get involved in leadership activities at ISU?
A: My freshman year I was a Sammie for the Student Government Association. Through this experience, I became oriented with the opportunities Student Government and ISU offered and had the opportunity to meet many active student leaders. This experience opened the door for my future involvement within the Student Government Association. My freshman year I also joined a sorority. I made this decision after experiencing my first Homecoming as an independent. (I quickly learned that it was hard to participate in many ISU traditions as an independent.) Also, as a freshman I was searching for another opportunity of leadership and I was driven by a desire to involve myself in something that would have continuity after I left ISU ñ something that held a bigger picture than the small glimpse I could see. As far as involving myself in the sorority, I was approached by members of that chapter, but made the first step towards joining on my own.

Q: How easy was it for you to get involved at ISU?
A: It was extremely easy to become involved at ISU. My freshman year, on top of all the activities mentioned above, I also was chosen to be a member of Alpha Lambda Delta and was given the opportunity to be a Knowing Sycamore for the future incoming freshman ñ a task which I enjoy and have done for two years in a row.

Q: What have you learned from your leadership opportunities?
A: As with any ìhands-onî experiences, being involved in campus opportunities has taught me invaluable lessons. I have grown not only as leader, but as a person. One tool in particular that I will take with me upon graduation is my ability to view issues from different angles. I credit this to serving on the ISU Board of Trustees while being a student. There are times when I only see the student perspective, but need to see a broader picture of an issue in order to be an effective leader. This ability demands a high level of understanding of the issues related to the University and it is one of many skills that have been developed through my involvement at ISU.

Q: Was there a person or instance that sparked your interest in becoming a leader?
A: I have always been highly motivated, which is the main cause for my high level of involvement. My parents and sister are quite encouraging, and it is always nice to have that support system, especially since they all are ISU alumni. Now my whole family has a common interest of seeing Indiana State succeed.

Q: What advice would you give to prospective students on the importance of leadership or on being a leader at ISU?
A: It is extremely important for new students to become involved. Involvement leads to satisfaction and gives students an outlet outside of the academic arena. Involvement in anything will lead to content collegiate years. Also, involving yourself with an organization gives you a sense of pride of your University and the time you spent here.