I volunteered at the Dunn Dash (March 2, 2019), Buckeyes Give: Columbus Day of Service (April 6, 2019), and Carmack Woods Cleanup (April 7, 2019).

As a volunteer at the Dunn Dash, I was responsible for counting laps for runners on the track. As the participants went by I cheered them on and helped them keep a positive attitude. While volunteering, I enjoyed seeing how passionate all the participants and volunteers were. (3 hours)

At Buckeyes Give: Columbus Day of Service I did some weeding and planted seeds at Indian Village. The event was put on by the Alumni Association and the Student Alumni Council. The first thing we did was learn about the programming that happens at the park, such as after school programs and camps. I helped to weed raised flower beds outside and spread mulch around them. I also planted vegetable seeds in smaller containers which will be transferred to the larger gardens at a later date. All of the alumni that volunteered were very energetic and made everyone feel more comfortable. At the end of our volunteer session we relaxed and ate s’mores with the site directors. (5 hours)

At the Carmack cleanup I helped to pick up trash in the woods. The event was well organized. Half of us picked up trash, while the other half was planting trees. They organizers generously provided Jeni’s Ice Cream, Panera, and Buckeye Donuts. (2 hours)

True Colors is a personality test that matches your personality traits to a color group. An orange personality tends to be active, competitive,  and adventurous. Gold personalities value tradition, family, and are organized. Green personalities value knowledge, and are curious, and are thinkers. Someone with a blue personality is compassionate, warm, and devoted.

I learned that Gold is my true personality color. Each color has different strengths, weaknesses, and values.  A group of all the same color would get along in some aspects but would not be able to experience growth and diversity. For example, in our vacation activity the green personalities showed good leadership but at times the orange and blue personalities were too overpowering. While working as a team, it is important to be aware of each other’s strengths. In DSWS there are many instances where we will work as a team for a project. We can identify our roles for the team so that the team as a whole can be successful.

To me, leadership means guiding others so that a collective vision can become a reality. Leaders must inspire others, have integrity, and set a positive example.

I think an under-appreciated example of a leader is Kawhi Leonard. He is a skilled basketball player that has proven his talent. Kawhi is known around the NBA for being quiet. He might be the most soft spoken player on the court but he sets the best example on how to play and be self accountable. Former teammates attest that Kawhi barely says a word but is able to elevate their own level of play.

The loudest person often doesn’t have the best leadership qualities. Kawhi Leonard’s actions, not his words, have the most impact on his teammates.  Kawhi Leonard is truly an example of how a leader’s actions speak louder than their words.

[Artifacts are the items you consider to be representative of your academic interests and achievements. For each entry, include both an artifact and a detailed annotation.  An annotation includes both a description of the artifact and a reflection on why it is important to you, what you learned, and what it means for your next steps.  For more guidance on using your ePortfolio, including questions and prompts that will help you get started, please visit the Honors & Scholars ePortfolio course in Carmen. To get answers to specific questions, please email eportfolio@osu.edu. Delete these instructions and add your own post.]