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Reese Allen
As an R1 Research Institution, WVU is dedicated to supporting academic research and advancements. As a native West Virginian, I recognize that the resources of any university can be leveraged to progress academia and promote personal growth. A diverse community of thought allows for a global collection of culture, experience, and understanding to enrich education, and the deep Appalachian roots support countless opportunities for students to see their potential bloom.
What is your favorite Mountaineer memory?
Among all Mountaineer memories, the Adventure WV trip outlined a path for the direction of my college experience. Exposed to more "natural" conditions, finding confidence in myself and comfort among new friends primed my behaviors for the eye-opening exposure of the collegiate community.
Why did you want to become a PSA?
As a PSA, students are given the chance to stand before University alumni, associates, and staff to communicate with and between huge national entities. As a student of both academics and service, scaling influence by interacting with program managers and community figureheads allows for a further reach and a platform from which to give valuable testimony. Leading improves with practice, and good leaders are tasked with improving the circumstances of those they lead.
From
the PSA experience, I’ve learned about contextualizing the leadership I
experience in my daily life. In every instance of leadership, a person’s unique
story guides their actions. If I can understand how my nature affects my
leadership style, I can begin to understand the inherent qualities of those who
have led me in the past. With a refined perspective, the leaders that I only
knew for their abilities became more human, and I developed greater confidence
in my ability to be empowered. Thanks to my unique story, I have been gifted
the ability to help those around me and the strength to improve my surroundings.
What did you learn from the PSA experience?
From the PSA experience, I’ve learned about contextualizing the leadership I experience in my daily life. In every instance of leadership, a person’s unique story guides their actions. If I can understand how my nature affects my leadership style, I can begin to understand the inherent qualities of those who have led me in the past. With a refined perspective, the leaders that I only knew for their abilities become more human, and I develop greater confidence in my ability to be empowered. Thanks to my unique story, I have been gifted the ability to help those around me and the strength to improve my surroundings.