As students learned if they were accepted into leadership positions for the 2015-16 school year at California Baptist University Feb. 27, some of the current leaders shared their stories, motivations and advice for the next wave of leaders.
Lydia Nolen, junior political science and international studies double major, works as an events team intern at the Office of Community Life.
Nolen said her boss, Chris Hofschroer, assistant dean of students, has taught her that leadership is a form of service, and working in Community Life has shown her how to be a servant to her coworkers and the student body.
“Anyone you work with on the professional side of things would (give) phenomenal mentorship,” Nolen said.
Advice she said she offers to upcoming student leaders is to always have the attitude of being a learner and to take constructive criticism to serve others joyfully.
Marie Copak, sophomore exercise science major and commuter representative for the Associated Students of California Baptist University, said she hopes to continue her ASCBU leadership position into her junior year.
“Overall, I think it made me aware as a leader that people do look to you and see what you do, especially on campus and holding a role as a student leader,” Copak said.
Copak said she advises future student leaders to set a goal for themselves and be sure to follow it.
Elizabeth Johnson, senior English major, served as a resident adviser during her junior year and now serves as a FOCUS leader.
“With FOCUS, it will look good on my resume and will give me good experience teaching and leading a classroom, speaking in front of people and just making a difference in the lives of freshmen,” Johnson said.
Through Rory Todd, resident director of The Village Apartments, Johnson said she learned the importance of having spiritual conversations with others.
“Just be yourself and be aware of how fast the time goes because it goes by really fast, so just be really intentional about your time,” Johnson said.
