One of the most impactful lessons I learned from 21st Century Leaders is that “though I am young, I can still significantly impact my community.” I’ve carried this mindset into my time at Wake Forest by becoming a Resident Advisor, where I support first-year students in their transition to college and work to foster a welcoming and supportive community. I have also participated in service initiatives, including volunteering at my university’s annual “Hit the Bricks” walk/run fundraiser for the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund and “Victory Day” which is in collaboration with the Down Syndrome Association of Winston-Salem. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to making a positive impact in my community, both now and in the future.
Continue readingAlumni Spotlight: Shannon Wiggins
21CL taught me the importance of networking, building connections, and being confident in myself. Developing those skills has helped me to become a communications professional for local municipalities where I am responsible for keeping thousands of residents informed, educated, and engaged. In times of crisis, 21CL has prepared me to become a fearless leader in rolling out a communications plan and protocol for my staff that focuses on keeping the community safe and informed in a timely manner
Continue readingAlumni Spotlight: Philip Musey, Jr.
21CL helped me understand the connection between effective communication and effective leadership. A leader’s vision is only as effective as his/her ability to express it. I’ve always cared immensely about language (both written and spoken). 21CL gave me frameworks (i.e., the elevator pitch, the cold call, extemporizing, etc.) that helped me channel my sometimes-scattered thoughts into a coherent vision. Notably, my experiences with 21CL fortified my confidence as a public speaker and encouraged me to raise my hand eagerly for public speaking opportunities throughout my 20’s.
Continue readingAlumni Spotlight: Jasmine Tillman Bradley
Programs like 21CL are important because they prepare students to position themselves as leaders early enough and before they enter their careers and industries
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