Two years ago, at my 3rd chapter meeting, I ran for chapter board for the first time. I was elected and excited to serve on my chapter's board. A year ago, I ran for regional and chapter board. I was elected for neither.  Last year I switched chapters, and it was the best decision I ever made. Since March of this year, I have been serving on my chapter board as N’siah, and it has been an amazing experience. 

Being N’siah has been different compared to my past leadership experiences. The first time I served on a board was incredible. I served as Sh’licha, had 1,000 ideas (and got to do most of them). It is safe to say I had a blast. I got to connect with my Jewish heritage and learn tons about BBYO. As chapter N’siah, I'm having a blast, but in a different way. Being a N’siah has been testing my leadership skills. In the first month,  I was so lost. I was crying to my chapter advisor, thinking I feel so useless, I have nothing to do. Oh, how I was wrong. Since then, I’ve learned what being a N’siah is about. It's not about having a green light to do all your projects. It is about supporting my board and focusing on helping them achieve their own goals, rather than just thinking of myself. 

Seeing them all grow and learn more about BBYO has been such a rewarding experience. I'm the oldest person on my board, being able to pass on to them everything I’ve learned in BBYO, and helping them excel at they’re positions has truly been the highlight of my experience. It gives meaning to everything I’ve learned and done in BBYO. 

My favorite way of describing what a leader is “leading is teaching and guiding others towards their objectives.” I feel that as a N’siah. I have been able to fulfill that description. I love being on board. Being on chapter board is such an amazing way to learn more about leadership and BBYO, connect with the people from your chapter, make new friends, and so much more!

It's truly a wonderful experience that I 100% recommend to anyone trying to get more involved in their region or chapter. Even if it is your third chapter meeting!