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When I first arrived at ³¬¼¶µõÖÓÄÌfrom Harlem, New York, I was excited about the clubs I would join, the friends I would meet, and the networking opportunities that would help me reach my full potential and become the leader I knew I could become.

As a first-generation college student and the youngest in my family, I felt a deep pressure to succeed, but I didn’t always feel like I belonged in the spaces I hoped to grow into. I pushed myself to try new activities and join different clubs, hoping to meet people and connect with departments that aligned with who I was becoming, or who I hoped to be.

I did not realize then that becoming a leader is not something that happens overnight, but it is something you build over time, piece by piece, through the people who guide you and the opportunities you pursue. 

aha MOMENTS THAT BOND US

In my first year at Skidmore, I joined the e-board of the African Heritage Awareness Club (AHA), which became the first real space where I felt myself growing as both a community member and a leader. Putting myself out there helped me find a home away from home. We became a tight-knit community through weekly meetings, fun events, and discussions about everything from how we view money, relationships, and entrepreneurship to leadership in African countries.

As a member of the e-board, having my voice and ideas heard and applied by upperclassmen helped my confidence grow over time because I was constantly seeing the change I could make. I remember when I was doing PR for the club, the older members encouraged me to take the lead on event promotion, trusting me to bring new ideas to the table, and I felt like my voice mattered.  
As I became a more senior member, the new members trusted that I would direct the entire fashion show for the annual AHA gala. Although I was a bit nervous to take the lead, this was the push I needed to prove to myself that I could direct a show, find helpers, and sew garments for every model within the limited time.

Over the years, I went from PR to secretary, to vice president, to senior advisor. I learned to speak with confidence, mentor young members, and make decisions that reflect the value of the community.  Those experiences taught me how to use my voice, show up for others, and trust my judgment.

Moreover, planning for the annual gala made me realize I could coordinate events, and they could be successful! I found that through planning events, some of the most impactful and spontaneous conversations unfold, which creates bonds and memories.

Leading alongside a community I cared deeply about taught me how to lead with authenticity, care, and intention. That confidence carried over into everything else I did.

Meaningful mentorship  

By junior year, I joined the First-Gen Mentorship Program, which added to my confidence journey. Through the program, a student is paired with a staff or faculty member who knows what it’s like being a first-generation student and can help with class selections, career discovery, and general life advice. You can talk with your mentor about sports, your love for fashion, places you want to travel, competitions you’re applying to, and so much more!
   
The program didn’t just give me a mentor — it gave me someone who recognized my potential and loved my ambitions. Zhenelle LeBel, director of the Zankel Music Center, recognized my potential before I dared to recognize it in myself. She demonstrated how to set boundaries firmly and kindly and make time for self-care, and I admire the high standards she sets for herself. Our relationship grew from a simple match into a genuine bond — one that shaped not only how I moved through Skidmore, but also how I stepped into leadership through her amazing example.

With such support behind me from staff, faculty, mentors, and friends, my confidence began to grow in other areas too.

Assistant Professor of Economics Mila Malyshava taught me that I should not be afraid to take up space in the classroom and that my words and impact are just as important as any other student’s in the class. 
 
Alison Hart, associate director of major gifts in the Advancement office, introduced me to opportunities in fundraising and community leadership that also helped me discover potential I hadn’t tapped into. I started raising my hand more, speaking up more (even when I was afraid), and taking on roles that once felt out of reach.  

I joined the Senior Gift Committee, and instead of simply participating, I asked to join as a junior — something that typically doesn’t happen. Boldness opens doors. I wanted to join the committee because I am passionate about pursuing a career in philanthropy, and I wanted to gain experience as confirmation of what I would like to pursue post-graduation. I eventually became co-chair, helping guide fundraising efforts that aligned perfectly with my passion for nonprofit and social impact.

discovering my superpowers

My leadership grew slowly and intentionally through every risk I took at Skidmore, every club I joined, and every moment I chose courage over doubt.  
 
I joined the magazine Her Campus and explored storytelling through blog posts. I pushed my creativity in the IdeaLab makerspace, sewing and designing. I even enrolled in a costume construction class to strengthen my technical skills and challenge myself academically. 
 
If I hadn’t taken a risk and reached out to Associate Professor and Director of International Affairs Mahesh Shankar during the summer after my sophomore year, I wouldn’t have secured an opportunity to study diplomacy with the Washington International Diplomatic Academy. I was super excited and thankful that I got to learn and train with actual diplomats, and I later secured a separate marketing internship — turning one risk into two opportunities in one summer.  

I learned that curiosity and exploration are my superpowers, and trusting that helped me earn the Barbara Hume ’67 Award, given each year to a student who has shown personal growth as a result of new interests developed at Skidmore. I wouldn’t have received that  honor if I hadn’t allowed myself to explore widely and grow confidently into each opportunity.  
 
I share my story not just because I am a first-gen student, but as an emerging leader who learned that growth comes from asking questions, seeking guidance, and believing that you are worthy of the spaces you are stepping into. Leadership isn’t about being perfect — it’s about letting yourself evolve.