I am the oldest boy in my family, including cousins and siblings. Being the oldest boy, of four siblings and nine cousins, has had a huge impact on who I am. Considering both my parents are hard working, busy people, I have spent a significant amount of time caring and setting an example for my siblings. Thankfully my older sister Danielle, who was a peer leader, was always motivating me. While she set a phenomenal example, most of the time, I was also able to learn from her few mistakes.
My whole life everything I did directly affected my younger family member’s life, therefore being a leader and working with younger kids is one of my strong suits. Whenever I encounter a life decision I am forced to think not only of my life but how my sibling’s will view my decision and how it will affect their lives. I have made my siblings and cousins feel comfortable and safe in any situation; they know I will be there for them at anytime and help them with anything and I feel that has made them stronger more independent individuals.
I feel as though I am a peer leader already and being recognized as one would be an honor. Being an older child is just one of the many reasons that I am qualified to be a peer leader. This year I was elected by my class to be our class treasurer. The position requires the ability to lead your class and be responsible with the class’s money. I have also been a captain on numerous sports teams throughout my athletic career. Being a captain of a team teaches you to not only be a responsible individual but to set a good example, work well with others, and develop strong connections with your peers. Through my experience and “life training” I feel prepared to take on any challenges peer leadership has to offer.
The peer leadership contract is as it should be. All upperclassmen should act as role models to their peers. As a captain of many teams and a leader of my grade I know to take on responsibilities and successfully educate my peers. A leader is one who does the right thing, can be depended on, looked up to, and forthcoming. A good leader can change someone’s life for the better, I feel that I can do so. I will reflect a positive influence on my peerlings and will help them begin their high school career. Peer pressure is a large part of growing up, whether it is negative or positive peer pressure is all around, especially as a freshman in high school. Therefore, the peer leadership contract is necessary not only to maintain order but also to give those who are less knowledgeable on how to set a good example a few ground rules.“I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along with people.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi