A Global Studies major and Spanish minor, Ellie Edwards is this week’s #LeaderBear. Ellie has gone through our Emerging Leaders and Distinction in Public Affairs programs during her time here at Missouri State. We can only imagine what she will do before she graduates in 2016; she’s already done so much! Ellie is the former President of Alpha Chi Omega sorority but she’s a member of another greek letter organization as well, Rho Lambda Women’s Honors Society.

Ellie says that our programs have given her, “the confidence I never had when I was in high school. They helped me learn more about myself and my leadership abilities, which has given me the courage to step up and take on leadership roles within different organizations.” She also loves that these programs are lead by older students with whom she has developed mentor-like relationships. Ellie’s advice to younger students is definitely encouraging:

“My advice to younger students is to never let the fear of failure keep you from doing what it is you actually want to do. Yes, you will make mistakes, but be kind to yourself, forgive yourself, and then keep going! The only things you’ll regret when you’re older are the things you didn’t do, so participate in everything you can. You may not like it, you may end up loving it, but either way you learn a little more about yourself in the process. Also, reach out to your peers and get to know as many people as possible. Everyone has a story and you will be surprised by what you can learn from others just by simply listening to them. Remember that everyone has bad days, so build others up as much as possible, support those close to you, and help whomever you can!”

Keep up the good work, Ellie! We’re proud to have you as an alumni of our programs. If readers would like to get the same experiences Ellie has had at Missouri State, check out Emerging Leaders and Distinction in Public Affairs.