JERMAINE P.

DAYAWON

10 - DAISY

Does Aiming for Leadership Roles in School Lead to Using Others for Personal Success?

Some people believe that students who seek leadership positions in school are only looking to benefit
themselves. They argue that these students use others to gain popularity or power, and they don’t truly
care about helping their peers. However, I disagree with this view. I believe that aspiring for leadership
roles in school can actually teach students valuable life lessons like teamwork, responsibility, and
integrity, which ultimately help them make a positive impact on others. Leadership is not about taking
advantage of others, but about guiding and supporting them toward a common goal.

One of the most important lessons that leadership teaches is the value of teamwork. When students take
on leadership roles, they quickly learn that success cannot be achieved alone. In fact, leadership is often
about working with others to accomplish shared goals. A good leader knows that their job is to bring
people together, listen to everyone’s ideas, and encourage collaboration. Instead of using others to get
ahead, true leaders empower their peers by creating a sense of unity and cooperation. For example,
when a class president or team captain organizes an event or activity, they rely on the support of their
team to make it successful. The leader’s job is not to take credit for the work but to make sure everyone
is included and valued. This type of leadership encourages mutual respect and teamwork, which benefits
everyone involved. Furthermore, students who take on leadership roles learn valuable skills like
communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution, all of which are important in their future
careers and personal lives.

Another key aspect of leadership is the development of responsibility. Students who take on leadership
roles are given the responsibility to make decisions that affect others. Whether it’s planning a school
event or managing a team project, leaders must take responsibility for their actions and the outcomes of
their decisions. Leadership teaches students to be accountable not only for their own work but also for
the success of the group. when a student leader misuses their position for personal gain, they risk losing
the trust and respect of their peers. On the other hand, leaders who show responsibility by being fair,
honest, and transparent will build strong, trusting relationships with their team members. These positive
relationships are the foundation of effective leadership. True leaders do not use their position for self-
promotion; they take their responsibilities seriously and make decisions that benefit everyone. This type
of leadership fosters a sense of loyalty and respect, both of which are essential for creating a positive
and supportive school environment.

The leadership skills that students develop in school are critical for their future success. Whether in a job,
college, or community organization, the ability to lead, work well with others, and take responsibility is
highly valued. Students who learn to lead with integrity, fairness, and empathy are better prepared to
handle challenges and make a positive impact in their future careers and personal lives. leadership roles
teach students how to make decisions, solve problems, and handle conflicts, all of which are essential in
the workplace. Effective leaders are not those who seek personal gain but those who inspire and
motivate others to achieve common goals. By taking on leadership roles in school, students develop the
skills and mindset needed to become successful and respected leaders in their adult lives. True leadership
is about lifting others up, not using them to get ahead.

It is true that some students may use leadership positions to further their own interests, such as gaining
popularity, power, or personal recognition. These students may manipulate others to achieve their goals,
using their leadership role for personal success rather than for the benefit of the group. However, this
type of behavior is not true leadership. Students who engage in selfish leadership are missing the deeper
value of what it means to lead. while some students may misuse their leadership roles, schools and
educators have the power to teach the values of fairness, honesty, and respect. By emphasizing these
qualities, schools can guide students to understand that leadership is about service, not self-interest. It is
important to create a school culture that rewards leaders who work hard for the benefit of others, not
those who exploit their position for personal gain.

In conclusion, aiming for leadership roles in school does not necessarily lead to using others for personal
success. True leadership is about serving others, taking responsibility, and working together toward
common goals. Students who take on leadership roles learn valuable skills such as teamwork,
responsibility, and empathy, which prepare them for future success. While some students may misuse
their positions, the best leaders understand that leadership is about making a positive impact on others.
Leadership is not about seeking power; it’s about helping others grow and succeed. Therefore, I strongly
believe that aiming for leadership roles in school can be a positive and meaningful experience that
benefits both the leader and their peers.