If someone told me before I came that I was going to go to Greece while I was here I wouldn’t have believed them. I’m still starstruck how gorgeous this country is. My friend and I went to Rhodes, Greece this weekend and it was the perfect getaway. Because Berlin has had rain and 65° for probably the entire time we have been here, this was definitely needed. Clear water, beaches, and sunshine. I couldn’t have asked for more. Our first day we spent the day at the beach that had a jumping dock in the middle of the ocean. It was quite the swim to get out there but we made it and even jumped off the highest ledge! On day two, we went to Lindos – home of one of the seven wonders of the world. After an hour and a half drive we arrived and made the hike up to the Acropolis. It was honestly so surreal being up there and overlooking the town. What was even better was the sunset that night. It was like someone painted the sky. At first we thought we missed the sun set, but we made it just in time. I don’t think I have ever seen a sunset more beautiful than the one I experienced that night. On day three, we decided to spend the day back at the beach near Old Town. With tanned skin and sand in our hair we unfortunately have to go back to Berlin. But will we make it? I currently write this on the airport floor with our flight on delay. We now have about 2 more hours until we hopefully get in the air. But the past few days make up for the delay. J
After our little getaway, it’s almost time to head back to work. And even then, it’s almost time to go home to the states. I have preseason starting and curriculum to prepare. As a University of Pittsburgh cheerleader, I would say that I am a very proud leader. With this position, not only am I a leader and a forefront of our school’s representation, but also one that the entire Pittsburgh community looks up to. We have young ones looking up to us as role models, lots of engagement in school spirit, and presence at many events to build a positive image for our university, community, and team. As an upcoming senior and 4th year member on the team, I have the privilege to be able to be seen as a leader to the new members and those that I have grown close with for the past 3 years. I believe that being a cheerleader has given me the skills to be very adaptable and always aware of what’s occurring. It is always important to be aware of your surroundings and be able to think of things on the spot. Although it takes a while to be the one to take initiative, it becomes second nature in environments like football games or fundraisers.
While cheerleading has given me the privilege to gain so many valuable skills, I feel as though this internship may have altered my view of being a leader. As a cheerleader, we are known to be very direct and authoritative. We are a team, but we are all leaders of our own. I have realized that you can still be a leader even when there’s people, like my boss, who have higher authority. I also noticed that you can be a silent leader. You do not always have to be the one with the biggest initiative or motives; you can still be a leader without having to be the first to come up with an idea or always sharing. While my boss takes the initiative in most decisions, I have learned to reflect and listen to what he has to say and take his vision to life.
Being a leader in cheerleading to the business world is very different. Although most of my leadership skills come from cheer, I see how they are useful in the business world. Just overviewing my boss, I see the kinds of skills that are needed in order to be successful in starting your own business. Flexibility, eagerness, motivation, and patience are all so important when being a leader in the workforce. I am glad to have this experience show me that I can still be a leader even when I am not in charge or in authority.
Let’s hope our flight leaves soon and I will update next week!