What did I do?
For my practicum I took ENES140 - Discovering new ventures, with Dr. James Green. This class is intended to teach students about the skills that are necessary in developing and assessing entrepreneurial ideas. We also analyzed different scenarios with an entrepreneurial mindset, keeping in mind the different kind of motivation and behavior that is necessary when becoming an entrepreneur. Many of our readings taught me about how one can go about making decisions and finding opportunities within different markets and economic conditions. Throughout the semester I worked on developing an entrepreneurial idea and analyzed the conditions for the industry that I would be entering. Our final project was to write a proposal of our idea, including all of the elements that would be necessary for developing and launching a product. I learned a great deal about the different statuses of my industry as well as how to change my approach to entrepreneurial ideas depending on the market and industry. I also learned about who I am in terms of my decision making, my motivation type, and my behavior.
How have I grown as a leader?
Every week I had to complete an evaluation of entrepreneurial elements such as my optimism, my locus of control, the industry status of my idea, etc. This assignment is an example of the manner in which my leadership skills have developed in this practicum. These evaluations allowed for a self reflection of my skills in the different elements of leadership. The results of the evaluations helped me know what areas I need to work on and what areas I excel in, and have helped me in the development of my leadership skills moving into the future. I intend to utilize what I have learned through these evaluations of my skills in my future career, as I will have many opportunities to lead a team. I believe that recognizing my faults will make me a better leader when put in these types of positions throughout my career as well as in life.
What are my plans for the future?
For the rest of my time at UMD I am working on a double degree in Psychology and Sociology, as well as a minor in Spanish. I plan to take advantage of research and teaching opportunities under the guidance of faculty at the university. I am also hoping to have an internship in my area of interest before I graduate. After graduation I hope to enter a masters program for Industrial - Organizational Psychology. During this time I want to take advantage of research facilities and hope to publish my work. For my career I plan to work for a company as an I/O psychologist, preferably in the DC area.
How will I incorporate PL into my job search?
My elevator pitch: I have had the pleasure to be a part of the College Park Scholars Public Leadership Program throughout my undergrad. This program provided me with experience in entrepreneurial projects and a hands-on leadership practicum. Through this program I have also had extensive practice with public speaking and developing my interpersonal skills. Public leadership has helped me fine-tune my presentation, leadership, and teamwork skills, all of which would be valuable for ensuring my success in my future career.