1. How have the workshops and discussions on leadership this week changed your understanding of what leadership means?

The workshops and discussions I participated in this week have deepened and nuanced my understanding of leadership. Previously, I associated leadership primarily with a conventional, top-down model characterized by directive authority. However, I now recognize that effective leadership can take multiple forms and does not necessarily require one to lead “from the front.” Leadership can be collaborative and distributed, with emphasis placed on empowering and supporting others and your inner-self. This more nuanced perspective highlights the importance of cultivating collective input and shared responsibility in achieving common goals.

2. How might you imagine applying one of the four ways of leading during your summer on campus?

During my summer research, I anticipate primarily adopting a "leading from behind" approach. I intend to work closely with my mentor, relying on his expertise to provide constructive feedback and guidance throughout the research process. As someone leading from behind, I will focus on integrating his suggestions thoughtfully and effectively to enhance the academic rigor and quality of my work. This collaborative dynamic will enable me to take initiative while remaining open to mentorship and refinement.

3. What is everyone most excited about engaging in as part of their summer research project?

I am particularly enthusiastic about exploring thematic patterns in Chinese discourse on tariffs through the application of computational tools. This approach is relatively new to me, and I look forward to developing my skills in digital analysis and text mining. I have already talked with several librarians to identify resources that can support my research. The opportunity to combine traditional social science research methods with computational techniques is both challenging and intellectually stimulating, and I am eager to see where this exploration will lead.