L CHELSEY CARDIN

Whether verbal or nonverbal, communication is a key element for each of us. I have always confidently been the first to raise my hand in class to present a project or speak in front of others. Although I have no trouble speaking in front of and with others, I understand the importance of listening. Being an active listener, respectfully giving feedback, having empathy, and placing myself in another person’s shoes are steps I’ve taken to communicate efficiently. Communication is multifaceted and each person has a different style of communicating. In any situation, I read the room, the person, the environment, to understand what communication style is best.

Leadership is not just found in the workplace. Leadership is carried with you in each step of your journey. A leader can lead another person or people in any situation. From the workplace all the way to the smallest conversation with a stranger. During the first week of my Health Science Leadership course, I learned just how prevalent leadership has always been in my life. As a child, I lead others to make good choices, to be kind, to help when a hand is needed. As a young adult in high school, I lead as the captain of my volleyball team for 4 years. As a college student, I have openly led in discussions and had my work used as an example and shared with students. As an employee, in each job I have ever had, I have been implemented as a trainer. As a transformational leader, I have no trouble rolling up my sleeves and hopping into any situation. It’s easy to delegate a task, but if you have the desire for others to want to work with you and for you, I feel it’s important to lead by example. Not to mention, others are far more inclined to jump in when they are being led by someone who is doing the same. Teamwork makes the dream work, but I have no trouble working alone. It’s important to hold myself accountable, be self-aware, use time management, over come obstacles, all while diligently persevering to accomplish any goal.

I completed my Master of Science in Integrative & Functional Medicine with a Concentration in Alzheimer’s, Dementia and Memory Care in less than a year being the first person in the United States of America to graduate with this particular degree concentration.