Leadership is defined as the "action of leading a group of people or an organization." A leader is capable of influencing and inspiring the people around him or her to voluntarily commit towards accomplishing a certain goal. Being just a member of the Eagle Pride has taught me to broaden my view of success and lower the thought of selfishness. When I look back to my freshman and sophomore year, I think of the many times I found myself living in selfishness and disrespect. Over this past year and a half, I have discovered and learned that it is simply not about "I" but about the comradery of the group. I also think of the lessons I have learned about being a part of a group and putting needs of others above yourself. I have been honored to have the extremely rewarding feeling that comes with being a part of a group; especially a group like the Eagle Pride that plays music, performs a show and tells a story at the same as it tests an individual both mentally and physically. My years of marching on the field as a flautist and performing has given me a new sense of pride that cannot be earned any other way. A student leader should be a person who can lead by example as well as words, helps to reinforce instructions given by instructors, and exemplifies authority by using respect. Leadership really touches my heart because if it wasn't for the encouragement, leadership, and the faith the directors had in me, I wouldn't be where I am today. I have learned from experience that leadership is a vital and important role in the life of this band; therefore, I must do something. The love that I have for the Eagle Pride has by far pushed me to be a better person and a better leader inside and out of rehearsal. As a musician who has an infallible love for music, I'm going to strive to encourage my peers to love and care for band as much as I do. Having to prove myself and recover for my two fallen years, I feel as if I deserve a leadership role because I have dedicated myself to be a walking example of pride and hard work.
