March 6th was the last day that I had physical classes at class. Later that week, I learned we would be moving towards online classes, and virtual graduation ceremonies. I worked closely with the Packaging Club to cancel any financial obligations that wouldn’t be fulfilled due to the virus, and help them maintain normalcy in these weird times. Furthermore, I have seen so much change in relationships with my friends, family, and community. This Pandemic has called out many types of leadership: Situational, Authentic, Servant, and Transformational.
-What?
The Pandemic was something I was never expecting as a senior in college during my last semester. I dreamed of walking on graduation and receiving a diploma and celebrating with my friends and family. That will not happen now. I was preparing for PackJam (a networking event for packaging majors) to land a job or interview. That won’t happen either. I wanted to be close to my family, but social distancing and the uncertainty of the pandemic has prevented that. In these times, I realized how important it is to value everyone, and do what you can to help the community. The changes I’ve seen have been very surreal. I’ve noticed other people and myself treating each other more genuinely. I’ve noticed myself and others becoming more selfless to keep others safe.
-So What?
This is all reflective of Servant/Transformational Leadership. People have become less focused on monetary gains, since they realize that this virus doesn’t discriminate against anyone. I have learned more of what it means to be a Servant and Transformational Leader. In actuality, the Pandemic has helped me relate to everyone easier. We’re all going through a shared obstacle. It’s up to us to work together and combat this together. Our success is based on how selfless we can be and how much we can grow for each other during these times. Our personal sacrifices and growth truly is the best way to achieve normalcy again. I’ve seen myself change more into a leader, and witnessed many of my friends and family stepping up as well.
-What Now?
The goals out of this pandemic obviously is ‘decreasing the curve’, being selfless, and looking out for your community. It means limiting social interactions and taking precautions to be less of a risk to your friends, family and community. In terms of leadership, this can be related to Servant Leadership best. My value of success during this time has been serving others. Finding their needs, and completing them. Helping and serving others is currently quantifying my personal success. If that means not coming home to see my family to decrease the risk of infection, that is a goal. In the future, this will not only change America but the pandemic has shaped my leadership philosophy to be less concerned of monetary gains such as materials and status, but the relationships with others and how my influence helps guide them during these times.
Leadership Journey: Nick Lawrence 