My reflections on my project

How did my leadership skills develop and what new insights about leadership did I gain from this experience?

Through this experience I was able to take control of a scientific research project. I was in charge of obtaining the relevant information to both start and finish the project but I also had to recognize where my knowledge and experience was deficient in order to seek help. Good leaders should be able to lead and guide others but that does not require the leader to be the most knowledgeable one in the group. I was assisted by Dr. Ogburn but he did not do the project for me. I was asked to participate and help along every step of process regardless of my lack of prior experience. Leaders should not stagnate but rather be willing and able to help. They also rely on delegation but a leader should never ask someone to perform a task that they are unwilling to do. Honestly, most of these concepts I already knew about through other experiences in my life including religious missionary service, scouting, and work but this project allowed me to see leadership in a new context, that of a scientific study. I experienced the pressure that comes with being in charge and I learned that ignorance is a poor excuse when it comes to deadlines. I also realized the importance of giving every person involved the credit they deserve. Dr. Ogburn gave me his time and expertise but I also received help from Angela Patino-Acevedo in setting up the study and help from the SUU Biology program in providing funding, equipment, and a location to work. Finally, when it came time to present my project, I felt how rewarding it could be to share my work with others and have them recognize the effort that was put in. I was able to answer questions and give credit where credit was due. Leadership comprises of many things and can take many forms depending on the situation but overall leadership should help better society. That is what I learned through this experience.