Reflective Leadership Program Learning Outcome Reflection

During my time at Loyola University Chicago, I took full advantage of being a student in
the city of Chicago and worked at a variety of institutions. These experiences not only allowed
me to connect with a number of colleagues that inspire me on a daily basis, but also provided me
with opportunities to put theory to practice and to apply what I was learning each semester. My
commitment to continuously learning as a practitioner, especially within my work around social
justice, is represented in the amazing things these colleagues stated. It is an incredible
opportunity to see yourself through the eyes of others, especially related to the role you play in
an office and impact you are able to make in a short period of time, and I am grateful to both of
these women for their kind words and their encouragement.
Carries letter expressed my ability to take on a leadership role while also listening to
others and empowering them to lead. She spoke of my connections with students across multiple
capacities at the University of Chicago, and my focus on serving others, even during potentially
uncomfortable moments. Carries reflection allows me to reflect critically on my strengths and
areas where I can improve in the future, and helps me recognize ways in which I practice ethical
leadership, especially around issues of justice and equity.
Katherines letter articulated a few other learning experiences I have had while at Loyola,
including my position as vice president of the Higher Education Student Association (HESA).
Through HESA, I have learned how to navigate leading peers who have a shared vision, but who
also have differing opinions on how to take action. This role has allowed me to practice
ethically-sound decision making, especially after the president took a step back during the
second half of our term. Katherine also addressed the relationships I developed with students
while at the Illinois Institute of Technology, which were transformational in my understanding of
leading to empower others. I know I have grown immensely through all of my roles, and I will
continue to reflect on my leadership skills as I continue in my career.