<p>Okay so I'm a sophomore with a dream of getting into Columbia and other top schools. Anyway I already know what to do in according to grades and ecs but I keep hearing this leadership thing. When one says leadership does one mean like being president of a club or creating a club etc or is it something else??? Thanks in advance :)</p>
<p>I think one of the most common ones would be club founders and presidents, but you can show leaderships in other ways too. Coming from a small school I didn’t really have any proper positions, but my teachers and the principal thought that I showed leadership in class, helping other students and stuff, and they told me they wrote about that in their recommendations. </p>
<p>That said, I think the easiest way to do it is just finding a club or an activity that you are passionate about and trying to get involved. Or you can gather some friends who are interested and found a club yourself too! It’s all about making most of what is given to you. This is a bit cliche, but don’t focus too much on leadership itself and just do what you are passionate about and get involved. Colleges like that.</p>
<p>I think leadership is pretty significant here. I would recommend focusing on one or two activities that you are super passionate about, and becoming a “leader” in those. If you’re looking at the ivy leagues you probably want to be really, really outstanding as a “leader” in your activities. Remember that the applicant pools are filled with tons of people who started clubs and/or were presidents of them, so doing incredible things will set you apart. Especially things the benefit the community somehow. I’m not trying to be discouraging or anything. Just wanted to offer my two cents :)</p>
<p>two cents are definetly okay lol Thanks you guys :)</p>
<p>You can demonstrate leadership without being an officer in a club: start a community community service project; tutor kids floundering in your favorite subject; or just set a good example for the underclassmen.</p>
<p>You can also show leadership in your community - especially if you are at a smaller school with less opportunities. My D has had leadership roles in search & rescue, and taught emergency services and aerospace to other young people and even adults. I think what really shaped her, was that she realized that she had a unique opportunity to learn from many people who lived a different life than she knew. So, always look to others who have their life experience to share. Quite often, it is someone who has a background very different than your own who can teach you the most. Embrace it. Take the time to listen and appreciate them. It is of amazing value, no matter where you go to school. You will be a richer person and will naturally develop those “leadership skills”.</p>