Learning About Leadership
FIU's 21st Annual Student Leadership Summit:
Insights into Leadership and Self-Awareness
Attending the FIU Student Leadership Summit was a valuable experience in both my leadership and personal growth. A workshop on apathy was particularly eye-opening, challenging me to reflect on how disengagement can impact decision-making and group dynamics. I realized that while I had viewed my apathy as a strength — helping me make logical, unemotional decisions — it could also prevent me from addressing challenges head-on or initiating difficult conversations.
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This experience taught me the importance of aligning my actions with my values and staying proactive, especially in high-pressure situations. It also enhanced my communication skills and deepened my understanding of how self-awareness plays a key role in leadership. Since then, I’ve made a conscious effort to stay engaged and improve my ability to lead and collaborate effectively with others.
Academy of Leaders:
Understanding What it Takes to Lead
Participating in the Academy of Leaders (AOL) during the 2023 Fall semester was a transformative experience that deepened my understanding of leadership and self-awareness. AOL focused on building key leadership skills, such as personality awareness, group dynamics, conflict resolution, and effective meeting facilitation, using the Leadership Challenge model by Kouzes & Posner.
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Throughout the program, I gained valuable insights into my leadership style and how it impacts my approach to teamwork and decision-making. The workshops on conflict resolution and group development were particularly eye-opening, as they helped me recognize the importance of empathy, clear communication, and adaptability in leadership.
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The experience also encouraged me to reflect on how I engage with others and manage group dynamics, particularly in challenging situations. I learned how to navigate different leadership styles, foster collaboration, and lead with confidence, all while staying true to my values.
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AOL strengthened my leadership skills, and the lessons I gained will guide my approach to future leadership opportunities, both in academics and in my professional career.
Leadership in Action
Breakthrough Tech Winter Guild:
Getting Inspiration to Inspire Others​​
My involvement with Break Through Tech (BTT) began as a participant, where I gained exposure to technology, innovation, and industry mentorship in a supportive, inclusive environment. What caught my interest was how it was aimed to involve women and underrepresented minorities more in the tech community. That initial experience not only sparked my interest in tech but also inspired me to return as a mentor — this time helping others find their footing in the same space that empowered me.
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As a BTT mentor, I supported students who were exploring their first steps in the tech world. I helped them prepare for career conversations, offered advice on technical and professional development, and created a welcoming space where they could grow their confidence. I also guided them through workshops and events focused on design thinking, prototyping, and networking.
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This mentorship experience helped me understand the importance of representation in tech and the impact of accessible, inclusive learning environments. It strengthened my leadership and communication skills while reinforcing my belief that diversity fuels innovation. Through BTT, I saw firsthand how mentorship can transform someone’s outlook and I’m proud to have been a part of that transformation.
Sino-US Language and Culture Salon:
Handling Financial Responsibilities as Treasurer
Serving on the executive board of the Sino-US Language & Culture Salon was one of my most impactful leadership experiences at FIU. The club’s mission to promote Chinese language and culture while creating an inclusive space for international exchange aligned perfectly with my passion for cross-cultural communication.
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In my role, I helped plan and coordinate events such as cultural festivals, language exchange nights, and discussion panels that brought together students from diverse backgrounds. One of the most memorable events was our Lunar New Year celebration, which featured traditional performances, food, and games that introduced Chinese culture to the broader FIU community.
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Beyond event planning, I also worked closely with Chinese international students to help them adapt to campus life and improve their English skills. This mentorship experience deepened my appreciation for the challenges international students face and allowed me to grow as a more empathetic and globally minded leader.
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Through this role, I developed valuable skills in intercultural communication, team coordination, and inclusive leadership — all of which I plan to carry forward into my academic and professional journey.
