This year, I am grateful to serve as a reference section editor for the Marquee Yearbook. In this position thus far, I have established my own style of leadership that I am constantly changing daily.

For example, I believe that having a section that is all friends with one another is the key to being a successful unit. Thus, I make a point to make conversation with each of my staffers every day (one that is not yearbook related!) This is such a simple way to build trust between my section and ensure that everyone feels comfortable talking to me, especially in the event that issues later on arise.

Communication is also important to me in leadership. Another habit I have is to speak to each person in my section individually right as section work time begins. I like to check in with them, asking where they are on their coverage (if applicable) and telling them if they specifically have anything to do, like applying edits or getting headshots.

As with anything, this position has brought difficulties and a learning curve. As a current junior, it is a struggle at times to balance the workload in my classes and other extracurriculars with the publication. However, I do feel that I have grown so much from this experience so far and it has taught me so much in the technical aspects like designing and editing coverage, but also the bigger things like growing a community and learning how to lead.