Stephen Santa

Name: Stephen Santa
Year: Second Year
Major: Communication Studies
Campus Involvement: Vice-President of Latinos Unidos Official Interest Group of Latino America Unida Lambda Alpha Upsilon Fraternity, Inc., Latino American Student Organization (LASO) Co-Treasurer, RA at the Village, Co-Founder/choreographer for Mas Flow Dance Team, Latino Recruiter Intern for the Office of Admissions, and Martin Luther King Day Committee

What is your favorite aspect of WCU or what is the best thing about being a WCU student?
I think the social aspect of WCU is great. The people here are friendly, happy, and always helpful.

What are some thoughts, or ideas that have helped to mold you into a successful leader?
I always remind myself of this quote from an Unknown individual “People who say it cannot be done should not interrupt those who are doing it.”

What do you think is an important quality of an effective leader?
I believe that patience, determination, and dedication are three very important qualities all effective leaders must have. Also, to be open-minded to others opinions and ideas to build upon your own.

Who is the leader you most look up to or who has influenced you the most?
I think all of the freedom fighters are great examples of leaders. They all fought for justice and what they felt was right and never gave up. Many of them did it in a positive non-violent way and I admire that.

What are your future plans?
I have many different goals in life. Some being owning my own dance studio/restaurant, working for a huge corporation such as MTV, and becoming a professor.

How do you expect your experience in student clubs and organizations will to benefit you for the future?
I have built on my people skills, communication skills, business skills, and networking. I feel that a combination of all will definitely be useful later on in my future.

What advice would you give to fellow students about leadership or how they can get involved on campus?
I would say to get involved in at least one co-curricular activity on campus and try it out. Also, to be yourself and do what feels right in any situation, but to always remember to keep your academics up because that’s the main purpose of being here in college!