The Observer, September 15, 2006
Volume XXXIX, Issue 3
Student leadership cultivated at Case
Are leaders born or made? With the new school year already in full swing, leadership opportunities are available in vast quantities for those who have the guts and the desire to take them. With the university currently in a transition phase, the responsibility to enact positive change on campus rests partially with the very students who deplore the current conditions. Just ask some of Case's many student leaders, and they'll tell you that the best way to get things done is to do them yourself.
According to senior Christine Chambers, "There are more clubs and organizations here than you
probably know, and in the slim chance there isn't one that seems interesting to you, start your own. It's really easy to do and you definitely won't regret it." Knowing where to go to get your vision rolling may be a bit daunting, but asking the USG Finance Committee about start-up funds may be easier than you think.
There are many reasons why students choose to get involved in extracurricular activities: resumé building, genuine interest, and the desire to change their surroundings among them. Of course, not everyone is getting involved. It's easy to complain about the state of Case's budget, student life, etc. What's difficult is doing something about it. But some of Case's most venerable institutions were the products of students' ideas.
"A lot of our biggest campus traditions and events, like Snowball, Halloween at the Farm, and Point Blue, were started by students and student groups. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication, but I think any student who wants to make a difference can
do it," said senior class president Elyse Moretti.
Many students have found ample opportunity here at Case to hone skills they'll need in the real world. By getting involved in campus organizations, students meet people outside the classroom, and learn how to manage their time to maximize the typical jam-packed Case student schedule. Knowing when to say "yes" to that extra meeting, or when to skip out in favor of homework is key.
While there may be plenty of uncertainty hovering over campusabout what the future holds for Case and its students, there is one certainty: students can make changes for the better. If you're not sure how to become Case's next Che, take advantage of some of Case's many leadership programs. This Saturday, the Office of Student Activities & Leadership and the Office of Greek Life sponsor the Fall Leadership Conference in Thwing, with workshops starting at 10 a.m. (check out studentaffairs.case.edu for more information). Getting involved is the first step to creating great change.
