Through my gymnastics experience -from when I was 8 teaching my friends handstands to the present as team captain- my journey into leading my team has been influenced by the values of hard work and a positive mindset. Being a captain for 4 years, leading warmups, and guiding my team through competition has given me valuable insight into leadership. As an effective leader, I collaborate and communicate with my teammates while also encouraging them to become better gymnasts through positive attitudes and the sights of getting that gold medal. While I am still working on building up this pillar of leadership, it is one that I have developed in the past years and will continue to improve on with the high standards set by the National Honor Society. In addition to leadership, my parents have always given back to the community with open hands, encouraging me to do the same. From a young age, watching my parents help out children with their education, I knew that helping others would provide me with greater gratification than receiving