During my Freshman year at WMHS, a school shooting occurred in Parkland,
Florida in February. This event sparked a massive movement across the country for gun
control and student safety. As a result, many schools participated in a nation-wide
walkout to stand in silence and solidarity for the victims of the Parkland shooting, and
our school was one of them. Our Student Senate decided that the walkout should be
taken a step further, and also have letters sent to our legislators to advocate for a change
in our gun laws. My role in this event was not only to encourage other students to
participate, but to also collect information regarding the legislators who helped to
change laws in Lansing. Although it was only a one time event, It was the first time I
ever contributed to something that was bigger than myself; that had a purpose beyond
just our school and our community. I was able to help bring my school together to bring
awareness to an issue. I was able to educate myself and others on current issues that our
society faces, and also become an activist for change.
When I learned that I was capable of having an impact in the world I live in
despite my age, I was much more motivated to become active and use my voice in
society, and to become more educated on the issues that affect me. I was confident in
my abilities as a leader because I saw myself take charge in a situation when it was
needed, and I learned that although leadership does require correct actions, it also
requires the correct attitudes. You have to have a positive mindset--a mindset willing to
make mistakes and learn from them, to take your circumstances and use them to your
advantage. Because of my experience, I learned that there is no specific age
requirements or credentials to be a leader. It’s all about whether or not you choose to be
one.