Learning about leadership
Molly Shore
Alexander Hermann has a new sense of independence and responsibility
after returning from an 11-day National Student Leadership Conference
in Washington, D.C.
The Burbank High School senior realizes he and his contemporaries
are the future leaders of this country, but says he isn’t scared of
what the future holds for them.
“People are always going to disagree, but [these students] will
try their hardest and do their best,” said Alexander, 17. “Most of
them are very moral.”
The conference’s mission is to identify and recognize outstanding
young leaders and to provide them with a learning environment that
encourages academic achievement, diversity, cooperation and social
responsibility.
Students were selected for the conference based on academics,
community service and teacher recommendations. As one of 1,100
students nationwide who attended the conference, Alexander said it
was the first time he engaged in serious debate with other students.
“I don’t like leaving my comfort zone, but I definitely had to
leave it and learn how to work with others,” he said.
Alexander participated in an international diplomacy study group
with about 400 students.
“The caliber of kids there was amazing,” he said. “These are
highly intelligent kids from all over the country.”
During the conference, Alexander and his group were given the task
of creating a fictitious country, complete with history, culture,
national anthem, art, literature and songs. They set up trade
alliances and went to war with other countries.
Alexander’s mother, Kathleen Hermann, said she encouraged her son
to attend the conference.
“I just know that he has a real interest and an intelligence,”
Hermann said. “In the beginning, he was a little bit hesitant, but he
came back all sparked up.”
It was interesting to watch how her son matured through the
process, Hermann said.
“It’s an awesome program,” Alexander said enthusiastically. “I
would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys learning.”