If you had asked me what I wanted
to be when I grew up when I was about 9 years old, I would have had only one
answer for you, a big brother. I wanted more than anything to have a little
brother or sister. I wanted to show them how to play sports or beat up anybody
who picked on my sibling. So I was more than excited when I found out I was
going to have three little brothers. I was ecstatic to be the best role model
for my younger brothers and to be a positive influence in their lives.
My brothers are ten years old now
and are three of the craziest and most awesome people I know. I would do
anything in the world for them and make sure they know it. And just like being
a peer mentor, I want to be a model of what it means to work hard and make
decisions. It was my brothers who taught me how important it is to help others.
Just about anything my brothers ask me I am able to help them with. If I would
have had sisters instead, that might have been a different story.
After being at Iowa State for a
couple years now I have definitely learned a thing or two and I am more than
willing to share my experiences. But I must also be aware that there are many
things at Iowa State and in life that I do not know. We must be aware of the
things we do not know, especially as a mentor to other students. It is important
to stop now and again and check ourselves to make sure we are providing
accurate information and those we are qualified to do so. And if we are not,
the worst thing we can do is “wing it”.
Saying “I don’t know” to somebody
who is coming to you for guidance or support may feel like your letting the
person down. Know that you are still capable of guiding that person to somebody
who is more qualified or knowledgeable so that they can get the proper help
they need.
“Your most important task as a
leader is to teach people how to think and ask the right questions so that the
world doesn't go to hell if you take a day off.”
― Jeffrey Pfeffer
Have a great VEISHEA and make good choices!
