Leaders come from many different backgrounds. Not all leaders are outgoing. Not all leaders command the attention of their peers. You can be a leader no matter what your personal style is. What you need to do is find the opportunity that works best for you.

Here are some questions you might ask yourself as you seek out the best leadership opportunity for you:

1. Are you outgoing? If you answered yes, you probably like the company of others. In this case, you might want to seek a leadership in a social organization (e.g. fraternities, sororities, spirit groups)
2. Are you someone who has a social conscience? In this case, you might want to get involved in a politically active group or start an initiative to deal with a public need.
3. Are you someone who is very focused on academics? In this case, you might want to become involved in a professional group associated with your major. Many students in this category are quieter by nature.
4. Are you someone who does not enjoy getting involved with others but would really like to make a contribution? In this case, you may enjoy making a difference as a volunteer (e.g. children’s hospital, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, volunteer fire fighter.)
5. Are you creative? In this case, you might want to establish your own organization. The organization in this case could be a business, a campus initiative, or any activity that wouldn’t have existed without your initiative.

Do any of these describe you? Most students can find themselves in one of these categories. Right now, you may not think of yourself as a leader. But the reality is every student can become a leader with the right opportunity and the motivation it takes.