Sara Mischo

Year: Senior
Major: Communication Disorders
Involvement/Leadership: Student Activities Council (President), Student Government Association (SAC Senator), National Student Speech Language Hearing Association (NSSLHA-former treasurer), member of the 2006 Class Gift Drive committee.

What is your favorite thing about WCU? WCU has so many opportunities to get involved. There's something for everyone.

What makes you a successful leader? The advisors that I have had within my organizations have really pushed me to do the best that I can and have given me so many opportunities to do more. I don't think I would be where I am today without their support.

How has/how do you expect your experience in student clubs and organizations to benefit you outside WCU? My experience with certain organizations has allowed me to attend conferences that I otherwise wouldn't have even known about. I've been able to network with people through those conferences (and in other ways through the organizations) and have been in touch with people about possible jobs and internships.

What advice can you give to new students to make the most of their time at WCU? Go to as many organizations as you can for a few meetings. Soon you will figure out which ones interest you the most and you can become more and more involved in something you are passionate about.

What advice would you give a new student about leadership and involvement? Getting involved is a great way to meet new people and learn about your school, your peers, and yourself. Your personal growth will expand further than you will even expect and you will see what you are truly capable of.

What is the most important quality of an effective leader? Being able to listen. You have to be able to listen to other's opinions and ideas.

Who is the leader you most look up to or has influenced you the most? Jeff Gerstein. His guidance throughout my years of involvement in SAC has helped me become a stronger leader. He has told me my strengths and weaknesses and has helped me work on those weaknesses.

What has been your best experience as a WCU leader? Being a senior, I've had the opportunity to help guide other student leaders that are younger than me. Helping them become better leaders has been my best experience.

What are your plans for after you graduate? Attend a graduate degree program for Communications.

Do you know a student leader who should be spolighted on our website? Email Natalie Shaak