I registered for this class for multiple reasons.  Leadership is a very important skill to acquire; it is a tool that I have desired for many years to excel in my personal life and professional career.  Although it is not an easy skill to develop, I believe that with hard work, dedication, and practice, I can master any skill I put my mind into.

I registered for this class mainly because of my major.  I’m currently pursuing a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering.  To give you an idea of what engineering is all about, let me briefly explain what engineering is and how it has to be infused with leadership to accomplish greatness.

Engineering, in general, is about solving problems.  I have always been fascinated by the art of mathematics and science, and how I can apply these demanding subjects to the real world to solve complex problems.  Engineering is not just about applied math and science; it also requires great communication skills and lead-taking roles.  So what if you can solve every problem life throws at you; so what if you can implement great ideas and pioneering innovation to the world; the question is:  Would you be able to explain your thoughts and ideas clearly to a mass of people?  Would you be able to stand up in front of a large crowd to present something that you are very passionate about?

“People ask the difference between a leader and a boss.  The leader leads, and the boss drives.”  This quote, by Theodore Roosevelt, has inspired me to become the person I am today; a person that is willing to put his fears aside and lead a team of brilliant individuals.  In addition, Steve Jobs once said, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”  This exponential quote had made me realize that the desired profession and leadership are key to succeed.

Leadership is an abstract word that can be applied into so many things.  According to dictionary.com, leadership is a person who can guide or direct a group.  This means that this person must put his differences aside, respect every member of the team, and most importantly, be open-minded to ideas that are absurd and different.  This is how I view leadership; and it has proven to work.  Every major cellphone company thought the idea of building a phone without a QWERTY keyboard was ludicrous; not until Apple came out with their first generation iPhone that had no QWERTY keyboard.  You have to be willing to think outside the box once in a while.

Prior to this leadership course, I expect myself to become a better leader.  I want to have control over my fears, and be able to express my thoughts and ideas effectively to colleagues, and possibly, professional individuals.  I want to improve on how to handle certain situations, or maybe even people, the right way without insulting or disrespecting anyone’s beliefs and values.  I want to become a better role model for my teammates and family so they can have someone to be inspired by.