Insights
Reflections, essays, and columns on student leadership, executive functioning, decision-making, and personal growth.
After interviewing Massachusetts State Representative Alice Peisch, I came away with a different picture of leadership in government. Much of the work happens before the visible decisions, through learning about issues, listening to different perspectives, setting priorities, and figuring out what can realistically move forward.
The written responses from student leaders and advisors helped me understand why clear roles and useful organizational tools don’t always lead to consistent follow-through. They also changed how I think about the practical support students need while learning to lead other people.
As I begin junior year, I’m sharing what helped me adjust to high school’s added independence, from managing assignments to asking for help and recovering when plans went wrong.
Thirty-seven advisors and coaches shared what they see helping student leaders succeed, and where follow-through, workload, and preparation can still become difficult.
Early results from about 270 student leaders show clear role expectations, common challenges, and very different experiences with training and support.
One evening after dinner, our group sat together for nearly an hour just talking. No one reached for a phone because no one had one.
I signed up expecting to learn how to serve my community, but I left with a much greater appreciation for the people, planning, and organizations that make service possible.