Words cannot begin to fully express how eye-opening my summer at LEDA has been. The transformative experience of learning from passionate facilitators, discussing with thoughtful students, and living on the campus of an Ivy League institution has pushed me to go outside of my comfort zone and be willing to try new things, whether that be understanding the moral perspective of someone on the opposing side of an issue or being exposed to the culture and diversity of the people that I have met.

A class day starts off with an early morning breakfast which then leads to morning meeting where a quote is discussed in relation to the nature of people and how it applies to ourselves. From there, I spend most of my time in classes with the majority of my time being in Aspects of Leadership where we discuss issues of leadership, politics, ethics, and globalization and role play various activities that all force me to question why I believe what I do and to think critically beyond the black and white. I know that what we talk about is particularly relevant because even when we are not in class, my curiosity pushes me to discuss it with others.

The students of LEDA are the brightest, most compassionate, and open-minded people I have ever met. Coming from all corners of America, they represent a racially diverse, low-income population of students that will become the future leaders that we all need. The moments I have spent with them, whether that be having individual, intense conversations or large group activities all remind me how they are more than just a community. They are family.

The college guidance that I have received here have helped me expand what schools I am looking at so that I am no longer confined to my state schools but look beyond to these highly selective colleges from all across America. Through the essay preparation and finalizing of my college list, I know that I will be wholly prepared for the college application process of my senior year. Ultimately, the summer at Princeton has been the best summer I could possibly have had. I did not know what to expect when I came in but I now know that the lifetime of memories and treasure trove of new experiences will always be with me.

Leaders are not born but taught. To help those in my community, I must first understand what it truly means to speak my beliefs, advocate for the rights of others, and make informed decisions. As summer approaches, this gives me an opportunity to develop the skills necessary for learning and appreciating these lessons of leadership.

Summer is a time for exploration, and as I enter my senior year, it is important that I look for colleges that best fit my passions. I want to prepare myself for the rigors of college education and joining LEDA will help me to develop my habits, my skills, and ultimately my character.

I am very grateful for this opportunity to explore who I can become and I know that this summer will be one that I never forget.