Before this internship, I would have described my leadership style as quietly confident but mostly reserved. I have never been the loudest voice in the room and usually prefer to observe, listen carefully, and speak when I feel it is necessary. I did not often see myself as the one to take charge unless it was absolutely required, and even then, I liked to have everything planned out before stepping up. Interning at Fundación ACOBE has completely shifted that mindset. In a space where I am often out of my comfort zone and not the most knowledgeable person in the room, I have had to take action before feeling fully ready. Whether I am answering a phone call in Spanish or helping a client with legal paperwork I am still learning about, I have had to show up with confidence even if I was unsure of myself. I quickly realized that everyone around me was also figuring things out as they go, and the people I considered leaders were not necessarily more prepared. They just kept showing up and learning in real time. Working in an office that provides legal and social services to people in vulnerable situations has challenged me to redefine leadership. I used to think it was about being in control and knowing what to do, but here, I have seen that it is more about consistency, trust, and presence. The stakes feel high when someone depends on you to help with an asylum form or explain how to get legal aid. There is no option to step back or be passive. You have to be proactive, even if you are still learning. I have also realized that leadership means recognizing when to ask for help and when to take initiative. I have become more comfortable with speaking up, taking on responsibility, and offering support to clients even when I am still finding my footing. The pace of the office is different from what I am used to. It focuses more on people than tasks, which means that leadership also looks like patience and flexibility. You cannot just race through a checklist. You have to slow down, listen, and meet people where they are.

Something I deeply value about this internship is how it has taught me to lead through empathy. Many of the people who walk through our doors are dealing with difficult and often traumatic circumstances. Being a leader in this space means not only helping them navigate the system but also making them feel seen and heard. It has reminded me that leadership is not always about giving direction. Sometimes it is about offering someone your full attention and treating them with dignity. I have learned that being present with people is just as important as being productive. This perspective will follow me into any future work I do, especially in environments that require cultural sensitivity and emotional awareness. Leadership is about creating trust and staying grounded even when things are uncertain.

Outside of the office, I had the chance to spend the weekend in Sevilla and it was one of my favorite weekends so far. I visited the Real Alcázar and walked through the palace gardens, explored the massive Sevilla Cathedral, and sat by the fountain at Plaza de España watching the boats and street performers. There is something very calming about Sevilla. The city holds so much beauty and history that it reminded me of how many forms leadership can take. Sometimes it is visible, like the grand monuments or the centuries-old architecture. Other times, it is quieter. It lives in the details that take time to build and last beyond a single lifetime. It made me reflect on how leadership is not always about being in charge. It can be about contributing something meaningful over time.

This internship has made me a more confident and reflective leader. I am no longer waiting for the right moment to speak up or take action. I have learned that leadership is built through experience, and no one has it all figured out. I used to be hesitant, but now I try to lead with care, even when I do not have all the answers. I still see myself as reserved, but I have learned that leadership does not require being loud or always certain. It requires showing up and staying engaged. If I keep doing that, then I know I am growing into the kind of leader I want to be.