My LiA project journey has been a transformative experience, marked by significant changes and personal growth. When I began this project, my knowledge of social-emotional learning (SEL) was limited. Many of my team members were already well-versed in SEL, so I had to quickly learn about the five core skills: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. This rapid learning process allowed me to understand key concepts such as self-reflection, managing emotions, maintaining motivation, fostering a sense of belonging, and making responsible choices.

From the outset, the project proceeded largely as planned. The nonprofit organization I worked with was highly structured, providing a clear framework for my involvement. This structure enabled me to delve deeply into the academic challenges faced by immigrant students in China and contribute meaningfully to their learning processes. It was fulfilling to see the impact of our efforts on these students' educational experiences.

Working with this community opened my eyes to the diverse backgrounds and needs of disadvantaged children. The children we served came from various locations and backgrounds, including rural and urban low-income families, third-tier cities or below, and children with disabilities. Many of them were migrant or left-behind children whose education had been disrupted by rural-urban migration. This exposure underscored the resilience and determination of these children, as well as the importance of providing them with adequate support.

On a personal level, this experience has made me acutely aware of my privileged position. I realized how fortunate I am to witness and participate in efforts to improve the lives of others. This realization has motivated me to take action, no matter how small, to make a difference. I have learned that even minor actions can have a significant impact.

My definition of leadership has also evolved through this project. Initially, I viewed leadership as a front-stage role, where one leads a team from the forefront. However, this project taught me the value of behind-the-scenes leadership, such as scanning and sensemaking, which are crucial for reality-checking strategies and ensuring their effectiveness. Leadership is not just about being in the spotlight but also about supporting and guiding from behind the scenes.

Moving forward, I aspire to be more involved in course and curriculum design, particularly in ways that help children in need. This project has shown me that I am an action-taker, capable of making a difference, even if it’s in small ways. The experience reinforced the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and taking consistent actions to support and effect change. I am committed to applying these lessons in my future endeavors, always striving to make a meaningful impact on the communities I serve.

This LiA project has been a pivotal experience in my personal and professional growth, shaping my understanding of leadership, community engagement, and my role in creating positive change. I am grateful for this opportunity and excited to carry these insights with me into the future.