There comes a time in every students' life when they look at the opportunities in front of them and make a decision. There's maybe a slight tinge of self-doubt and the second, third, fourth and fifth looks over an application. It's the decision to become not just a student, but a leader.
Adding "president" to your resume isn't just a sparkly word that comes with a side of relaxed nights – it means work. As a student leader myself, I am familiar with the weight that is placed on your shoulders. You have people depending on you. There are choices to be made, deadlines to be set and fires to put out.
The transition into a leadership position can be intimidating and sometimes downright uncomfortable. But from a veteran leader to another, new or old, here's my advice to you:
At the end of the day, it will work out.
There will be moments when you will want to pull your hair out and scream. Trust me, whether you think it will or not, the stress will seem to be too much at one point or another. Being a student leader means having people rely on you, but you have people to rely on, too. Your group members, advisers, faculty and staff can be a huge asset to you, so do not forget they are there to help. Deep breaths help, too.
Be able to draw the line.
Learn how to separate business from pleasure. People will look up to you for guidance, and you need to be able to separate different facets of your life in order to do your job effectively. Yes, you can absolutely hang out with all your favorite people outside of a business setting, but be sure you are aware of any potential favoritism that could accidentally trickle into your work and eliminate it as soon as possible.
You are not going to make everyone happy.
You're not. Plain and simple. Remember that you have to do what you need to do in the best interest of your organization as a whole. When it comes down to the nitty gritty decisions that are hard to make, consult other executives or your board. Coming to a majority opinion can do wonders in guiding the direction of your organization, and it allows everyone to consider and build from each other's opinions.
Know others on your campus.
Get out there and talk to others. As students, you are the foundation of your university and the reason why the institution exists. So, know who else you are working with because having those alliances and shared experiences can help you. Each and every student leader is working to better their organization, themselves and their university, so meeting others who strive for the same mission can only strengthen the campus community.
Delegate, delegate, delegate.
I cannot stress this enough. Do not learn this the hard way! As much as you will want to, you cannot do everything yourself. Lean on people if you need to. Ask someone to tie up a loose end or two for you if you have a hundred other ends to tie. You will be busy, so know what you can handle and what you cannot. Asking for help doesn't mean you are a weak leader, it means you know not to push yourself past your breaking point.
Work hard, play hard.
Remember to do the best you can with the time you have with your organization, but know that your years on campus aren't meant to be spent holed up in an office. Do your work, but have some fun. It's OK to hold off on doing even more work if it means you can grab a drink with your friends for an hour. You will always have things to do, but remember: at the end of the day, it will all work out.
