How has ASDA helped you build your leadership skills?
As an ASDA leader at Tufts, my main role is to supervise and work closely with our 60-member cabinet which includes the Advocacy, Pre-dental Outreach and Mentorship, Service, Wellness, Gold Crown, Newsletter, Fundraising and Events and External Affairs Committees. Between planning events for ASDA fever, delegating tasks with my fellow ASDA class representatives and cabinet, and communicating with administration and student body, ASDA has not only allowed me to become a well-versed individual, but has taught me to recognize each ASDA member as their own individual with their own personalities, strengths, and weaknesses. I really enjoyed getting to know each member of our Tufts ASDA family and I am grateful for this position as it has truly helped me become the best leader and helping hand to many students.
What do you think is the most vital quality in a leader?
An exemplary leader is honest and driven. Competent leaders demonstrate humility, accountability, and approachableness. A driven individual is ambitious, gritty and hard working in order to achieve their goals. Going above and beyond to achieve such goals is commonplace. However, in addition to such qualities, leaders must be able to acknowledge when they are perhaps at fault in certain situations; in such instances, it is expected to take accountability when it is due. An approachable leader is essential when it comes to encouraging new ASDA members to join events and/or provide feedback. This allows for improvement and growth into the individual’s best self as a leader, member and peer!
Why should members get involved with ASDA leadership positions?
ASDA leadership positions offer growth for personal and professional development. With so many positions to choose from, it is easy to explore and research which one best tailors your passion and interests. With this position, you witness commonalities with other student leaders in ASDA and develop a strong relationship with them. The experience you get from ADSA through networking and knowledge you gain from local and national conferences will truly maximize your dental school experience! I am extremely blessed with my experiences in leadership and networking opportunities that ASDA has continued to provide at the local, district and national levels. Most importantly, I am even more grateful that I can share these experiences with my fellow ASDA leaders at Tufts!
What future leadership roles in organized denstiry interest you and why?
I am interested in applying as the Events Chair for District 1 next year. As this year’s District 1 Events Vice Chair, I met the most unique, diverse members and chapter leaders in our ASDA district. I was truly inspired by these individuals as it pushed me to become fully committed and immersed in events related to the dental field through ASDA. It was truly a pleasure and meaningful experience for me to meet and connect with such diverse, talented, and multi-rounded individuals through ASDA events. Such events included the District 1 Summer Leadership Retreat in Maine, District 1 Annual Session Conference, District 1 Annual Boat Cruise, Virtual Leadership Conference, The Summit Conference, and many other live and virtual events. In addition to my current roles in ASDA, I am looking forward to working with these members again next year and navigating the logistics of future district events!