LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT FOR UNIVERSITIES

“I was very impressed by the online orientation event, and I made a conscious effort to cultivate a focused and stable mind. In the past, I realised that I was frequently falling into the trap of pursuing an incorrect research direction for an extended period of time. I began by recognising it, and since then, I’ve been attempting to take a step back and refine my goal in a piece of work. Although, I continue to make mistakes, I think they are reasonable and I have seen a change in the way I work.”

(Evangelia’s experience of trying exercises to “Develop a Focused and Stable Mind”)

“I have started to overcome small fears and I just go for it. It made me realise that I have nothing to lose in taking action and if anything, I gain something out of it.”

(Luckshana, regarding “Developing the Determination to Act”)

“I’ve been slowly filling out my core values and it’s very helpful to write them down because it makes them feel a lot more definitive and I find myself acting more along those lines than I did before. I’ve also tried the focus on an object activity and it’s been much more difficult but I’m determined to keep trying.”

(Anushka, who focused on “Developing Enthusiasm & Clarity”)

“I have been reflecting on my comfort zone and have been trying to continuously take up opportunities that lay outside my comfort zone. I feel like this has been very beneficial for my personal development and confidence in new situations.”

(Carla, sharing their experience after trying “Growth Mindset” activities)

“I loved the opportunity to meet other scholars and learn from their experiences. It was inspiring to hear from such qualified and intelligent speakers. I have always been unsure of my purpose, but this session has taught me not only that I need to find mine, but it has shown me how to do it. I am going to be in a leadership position next year at the SU, as the chair of the international students network. This is the first time I would be in charge or so many people, and this workshop has given me many skills that I will soon be implementing. I really needed to learn many of the things discussed today, so I am extremely grateful for this workshop.”

(Anonymous workshop participant)

“I genuinely left the programme feeling special and ready to take on any challenge coming my way. It is always nice to have reassurances, and the programme certainly gave me those.”

(Anonymous workshop participant)

“The innovative ways of interpretations for future objectives. A lot of important topics that aren’t taught in classes were talked about and improved (well-being, insecurity).”

(The thing one anonymous workshop participant appreciated the most)

“The opportunity we’re given to grow as people rather than it being geared towards academic excellence specifically. It makes it a more rewarding and personal experience.”

(Something one anonymous workshop participant appreciated in particular)

“I felt valued and respected. I was super happy to meet people from other countries who have similar goals like mine. I feel much more confident about myself. I felt belonged and inspired. The workshop has changed my perspective about many things.”

(Anonymous workshop participant)

“The programme was well designed looking at all aspects an International student might have to deal with. It was engaging and interactive which made it more interesting and fun! This feels like a new beginning for me, I have an emotion I am carrying from this workshop which makes me feel I can do wonders.”

(Anonymous workshop participant)