What does it take to be a great leader?

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There are countless opportunities for students to lead at SFA. More than 200 dynamic organizations give students the opportunity to stay involved with activities that occur all over campus.

SFA allows students numerous ways to accept the challenges of leadership. "Not only are students given leadership positions, they are allowed to put those skills to use," said Michael Preston, director of student life. "Many students think they simply got stuck here at SFA, but I want them to understand they can bring a lot to this campus."

Leadership is not just fun and games; it's difficult. Individuals in leadership positions must be the voice for their organization, which means taking the good with the bad. Preston said loss of some friendships is a common effect for some campus leaders. "The rewards of leadership rest in your experience while in your position," he said. "It has an immense impact and is something you will remember for all your life. "

Universities incorporate a diverse group of individuals from all cultures and segments of society, a factor that makes college such a special time. "We are a school that allows students to be whoever they want to be-rather conservative Christians, crazy liberals, people with pink hair, or those wearing pants down to their ankles. Everyone can find a home here, and the coolest thing is at the end of a ball game we all know the school song."

He believes the main quality necessary to be a great leader is communication. Students must be able to communicate effectively to be efficient. "Having a vision is another important characteristic," Preston said. "Success can be defined as leaderships taking steps to complete that vision even if it doesn't happen. Failure, in my definition, is a lack of courage to see a project to completion. It is not a failure when you evaluate and plan for a better way of approaching the problem."

Preston understands that most college students will go through four stages as they progress in their leadership development. The first involves students exploring their opportunities for involvement. They test out various organizations and ultimately become members. The second stage is an enrichment or productive time for students. They express their opinions and become key members in their groups. In the third step, students show serious interest in being in a leadership position. They show what they are made of. People receive real impressions and make assumptions about how well an individual will lead.

The last stage is the transitional leader, the leader in charge. As a person leads, he or she seeks to develop other leaders in the organization. The other half of this final stage involves a connection with the real world. All the skills obtained so far will carry the student leader into adulthood.

Preston believes in these steps and knows that he has the power to assistant students in their quest. "I love helping students," he said. "If there is ever a day when I cease to serve students, my day is not complete."He advises student to take advantage of each opportunity at SFA. "Find your passion and commit to developing that skill before you enter into the real world," he said. "Don't underestimate your power to lead. In the classroom, on the court, or within your organization, grab hold of the opportunities that are right in front of you."

aedwards@thepinelog.com