Essay Advice for the Nontraditional Leader

When Madi Bourquein first interviewed with me last October, she worried she didn't have all the usual stuff colleges look for on a resume.

She explained that she's a quieter person, the nurturer often behind the scenes. Yet all schools seem to want were traditional, extroverted leaders. Madi fretted that she missed the boat by not serving as a president of some club--yet that wasn't her personality.

To Madi's credit, she turned the idea on its side in one of her short essays. Her answer to a leadership question explored a different thread.

Nine of Madi's ten schools rewarded this original perspective with offers. She's thrilled to have said "yes" to OU. And get this: The institution is paying her $36,000 in merit aid to attend.

Congrats, Madi. Way to be yourself. You've been richly rewarded and will be a terrific asset to the Sooners.

Here's her essay, which she graciously gave me permission to publish.

I’ve participated in many activities and extracurriculars during high school, but I’ve never held a title. That said, I firmly believe that you don’t need one to promote a cause or do good work.

Instead, I see myself as an “emergent leader”—the quiet person who supports others, gives suggestions, and pushes for change in a non-controversial manner.

Here’s the thing: I know that I can make the same impact, if not a greater one, than a president, treasurer, or whatever it may be.

From what I’ve seen in others, it’s often easy to get caught up in a title. In lieu of that, I strive every day in all that I do to be a positive example to others. After all, the leader is only as good as the people they are surrounded by. Moreover, I’m bettering the world in my volunteer work by aiming for positivity, trustworthiness, integrity, and accountability. Having the ability to humble myself and know that I’m making a difference is a feeling that holding a title cannot fulfill.

Recently, for example, I had the opportunity to serve a Thanksgiving dinner to elderly residents and their families at a retirement community with my dance team in my hometown. In all of my volunteer work, this one action stands out. Some residents do not get to see their families often and I was able to help provide a forum in which to reunite them. I mention this because seeing their love is something I’ll never forget.

Good leaders work not only with groups but with individuals.

With my drill team at school, I also get the chance to be a “Big Sis” to a new member of the team every year. Having that one-on-one time with my “Little Sis” allows me to take on a role by showing them the structure of the team. Throughout the year, we continue to grow closer by attending events together and building a bond. I’ve learned how to guide others to be a good example for the next year’s new team.

A good leader not only serves but also strives to be entrepreneurial.

My school district offers a career center that includes all kinds of experiences for specialized interests. I began taking STEM classes in my sophomore year when I chose the Health Science Pathway. I have taken foundational classes including Principles of Health Science, Medical Terminology, Health Science Clinical/Theory, and in the spring I intend to take Clinical Rotations. I believe that educating myself early in life to prepare for my future is what sets me apart from other STEM students.

That, in fact, makes me a leader amongst my peers.

Throughout the years, I’ve been able to see qualities that good leaders possess. I strive to be empathetic, responsible, and trustworthy among other traits. Though I’ve never held a position of official leadership, I believe my journey has been much more effective and beneficial than any alternative.