Sarah Larrabee is the epitomy of a leader on campus. She’s genuine, kind and just all around fun! Read on to find out what she has to say about her experiences as a leader at UP!
Why have you chosen to take leadership positions on campus? What positions have you held?
Leadership is something I have always found myself drawn toward. Even in middle school, I was involved in leadership roles and that continued the trend throughout high school. When I came to college, I was excited to start fresh and look for leadership positions. I’ve held a lot of leadership positions at University of Portland including: team member for the Women’s Rowing team, CBSA/CPSA Vice President and President, Resident Assistant while studying abroad, participant of the Faith-Based Leadership Program, Lector for Campus Ministry, various Alpha Kappa Psi committee chair and memberships, membership in Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society and a Mehling Hall Receptionist. The most rewarding positions I have held are the President of CBSA/CPSA and Resident Assistant. I joined Christian Business Students Association my sophomore year and found out the Vice President position was available. I found out what I needed to do to secure the position and enjoyed serving under the previous president. Then, I was promoted to President and have held that role for 2 years. I was a Resident Assistant when I studied abroad this past spring in Australia (shout-out to my Cleo’s family). Studying abroad alone was an incredible experience, but being able to serve as a role model and leader for those I traveled with was a blessing. Each leadership position I’ve held has had its unique challenges, but thats why I love being involved in leadership.
What benefits do you receive from holding leadership positions?
Oh boy, so let’s see. One of my top [Strengths Quest] strengths is “Developer.” When I serve in leadership roles, I try and build others up. That’s probably the biggest benefit I receive from holding leadership roles. The people I associate with in the positions I hold also develop me. I am challenged in the roles I hold/have held. I am constantly learning while I serve in leadership positions.
In your opinion, what are the key characteristics that make up a good leader?
I really think this varies from person to person. Personally, I think open-mindedness, compassion, bravery, responsibility, credibility, patience, discipline and being personable are a few of the key characteristics for a strong leader.
Where should you start if you want to hold a leadership position on campus? Is it ever too early?
It is never too early to hold leadership roles on campus; in fact, they are the best ways to feel connected to your new home! You can start in your dorm; you can start in a club; you can start in your friend group. University of Portland is such an open and positive community that really strives to foster each student’s invidual well-roundedness and leadership potential (I sound like a walking ad, but I do believe this about UP!). Find something you are passionate about and see if there is a way to get involved. For me, it was my desire to be active (though I have almost zero athletic talent) and faith that drew me into leadership roles on campus. This is the time to really “go for the gold,” branch out and take on leadership roles you only imagined.
What makes up your “leader toolkit”?
Hmmm that is an interesting question. I guess my “toolkit” changes depending on whom I am interacting with or what I need to do. The two things that are consistently in my toolkit are my experience and the amount of care I have for people. It is great when those two “tools” can be used together too!
When do you feel most powerful?
I feel most powerful when I am speaking in front of others—I am not afraid of speaking in front of a large group of people. But I also think it is important to consider the times when I, as a leader, feel most vulnerable too because I can’t always be the most powerful/knowledgeable one.
Why is it important for women to hold leadership roles in college?
Women should hold leadership roles in college because they can mold you into who you want to be. Leadership is not for everyone. If you are a woman and you feel like you are being called to a leadership role, do not hesitate! Feel empowered! Just remember, it is OK to make mistakes and to call on others when you don’t know what to do as a leader. When you serve as a leader, you can develop a network of people who support you and look up to you. My network helps me push on during tough times and makes me want to be the best young lady I can be.
Fill in the blank: A good leader can’t leave home/the dorm room without ______.
A sense of humor. If you don’t have a sense of humor, you can get easily offended, especially as a leader. If things don’t go the way you planned, look at the positives and laugh about the situation. Plus, laughter is the best medicine and a smile looks good on anyone, so you will always be healthy (theoretically of course) and look good!