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How have the workshops and discussions on leadership this week changed your understanding of what leadership means?
Though I have attended leadership workshops in the past, I feel as though this leadership workshop really opened my eyes to the various types of leadership that can exist. At the end of orientation, I was left wondering how exactly to balance between "leading within," "leading behind," "leading in front," and "leading beside." I felt as though balance was a really key theme throughout the workshops; how does one balance different types of leadership for effectiveness. The one-dimensional and multi-dimensional model, I feel, really applies to this question. After the workshops, I was left still curious about how to balance these models, especially as a pre-medical student. Diya brought up how in an operating room, the one-dimensional model would be preferred over the multi-dimensional, and I really resonated with this observation. Being conscious about the situational aspects about using each model may generate better outcomes for everyone in a particular group or team. I also found my specific working styles to be particularly interesting. I scored a 6 on amiability, 5 on driver, 5 on analytical, and 2 on expressiveness. Though I expected amiability to be high, I definitely did not expect it to be my top trait, and it made me wonder about the robustness of the working style system. I definitely felt as though I fit into all of the styles, and perhaps even more striking to me, I felt as though my styles would change depending on the time of day or situation. Afterwards, I reflected upon how fluid we all are. Leading effectively requires acknowledging this fluidity in all of us and adjusting accordingly. -
How might you imagine applying one of the four ways of leading during your summer on campus?
I feel as though as a STEM student, I can really only see myself leading from behind right now. I will be working under graduate students and post-docs with way more knowledge and expertise than me. This requires me to "cheer from the sidelines" in a way and take the time to learn from them. By cheering, I can effectively learn enthusiastically in the lab. Personally, I have barely utilized this leadership style, so I feel as though this summer would be a great opportunity to enhance my skills. I also see myself leading within in my lab as I know that I will fall into common mistakes and pitfalls within my research. Retaining my confidence and enthusiasm for the lab will be challenging at times, but I am excited to see how much I'll grow throughout the summer. -
What is everyone most excited about engaging in as part of their summer research project?
I am excited about learning more in polymer chemistry. Currently, I will be working on nanohoops in polymer chemistry, so I am really excited to experiment with these molecules and to examine the various topologies that can be created. I'm also excited to learn new techniques such as small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) as well as polarized optical microscopy (POM).
Mark Nashi
(He/Him)
Undergraduate Student, Columbia University
I am an undergraduate at Columbia University, currently studying Chemistry & Human Rights.
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I totally agree Mark! Balancing various leadership styles is complex and multi-dimensional. Understanding that leadership looks different for everyone is imperative to building a strong foundation. The fluid nature of leadership requires adaptability to build understanding and cultivate community.