Anna Morgan
Year: Second
Major: Studio Art/Psychology
1. What are your involvements at UVa?
First Year Players, Autism Theatre Project, Sustained Dialogue, Cavalier Daily Senior Writer, Miller Arts Scholar, Spanish House
2. What is it like to be a woman in the UVa community?
Everyone always says to be careful at night and walk with a buddy. I feel as if that’s very much female advice. We need to be wary. In terms of academics, there are obvious gaps in the science departments, which are improving slowly and in small increments.
At UVA, I don’t feel disrespected or anything as a woman, but I think gender roles and expectations persist in society in general. To deviate from typical behavior is somehow noteworthy, but really gender is a social construction and I wish everyone felt comfortable acting exactly how they want to, without fear of social repercussions.
3. What do you think are fundamental characteristics of a successful woman leader?
I think any leader should have patience and be assertive. Listening is incredibly important; having an open mind and taking into account the ideas of everyone you work with is crucial. It shows mutual respect and allows for more ideas and innovation to blossom. I don’t think a leader has to be the loudest person in the room, but confidence and determinedness are important.
4. What would you consider to be your leadership style?
I am very open-minded. I want to hear from everyone and make sure that they feel as though their voice is being heard and taken into account. I think knowing the facts and details of whatever I’m working on is essential in being a competent and efficient leader.
I definitely struggle with self-confidence and try to lead by example when I can, but I believe in taking a stand for what I think is right. I think I also struggle at times as a woman because I don’t want to seem bossy or overstep some boundary. I hate that I let myself become demur, but I don’t want to seem pushy or anything.
5. Do you have any advice for women in the present-day America that you think they should hear?
Stand up for yourself and others. If you see someone being bullied or teased or put down because of their gender, or for any reason really, intervene. Be an active bystander. Don’t let society tell you how you should be or act. America is built on differences and I truly believe that those dissimilarities make us stronger. Do what makes you uncomfortable and own it. Be a woman and own it. Be masculine, feminine, a mix of the two. Perform for yourself.