Leadership, Interpersonal, and Communication Skills through Mentoring in Education Senior Capstone: UNST 421 Portland State University

Reflective Essay #1 Please choose one of the following:

1. Reflections of leadership theory and practice Purpose: To provide you with an opportunity for reflection on and articulation of your thoughts on leadership theories and how they are manifested in practice

Many people feel that leadership is hard to describe but that it is easy to see. Consider one specific situation where you were involved with leadership (good or bad) either as a leader or a follower. First, evaluate the situation and describe how your definition of leadership was or was not reflected in it. In doing so, explain and articulate from which theories you draw your definition of leadership (Note: the focus is not an in-depth description of the situation; rather, the focus should be your reflections on it). Second, draw some conclusions about the study of leadership (e.g., What questions or issues does this situation raise about leaders, followers, or the leadership process?) and consider how your perception of leadership helps you in and shapes your everyday life.

2. Reflections on the importance of self-awareness to leadership Purpose: To provide you with an opportunity for reflection on how knowing yourself plays out in your personal leadership style.

Lee and King (2001) note that “Knowing yourself makes you more effective in working with others” (p.72). Describe why you think that is or is not the case. Next, specifically describe how your service work at the Tubman Leadership Academy can be enhanced by self-awareness (e.g., how does knowing your personality type affect the way that you interact with the students and teachers at the school; how does knowing your definition of leadership impact the way you will interact with the students in a leadership capacity). What are some of your developmental needs and areas in need of change as you think about your leadership (whether it is a formal leadership role or not)? What strategies can you use to continue to remain aware of your leadership style and strengths?

TIPS AND REMINDERS:

 Papers should be approximately 1000 words (4 pages, double-spaced) in length, typed, double-spaced, and follow APA or MLA format.  They should include at least 3 references to required readings, course content, and relevant activities with the community partner (listed on separate reference sheet).  Essays are a way to show your integration of the course material: they are not merely summaries or impression pieces. Be sure to incorporate the reflective model into your writing ( s ee Appendix B in syllabus).