Mr. Glenn Kim

Only in college did I realize what it means to be a leader. All throughout my years in high school and community college, I had no real aspirations or goals. I have always thought being a leader was simple - tell people what to do and things will get done. However, I realized during my term as the president of Lambda Phi Epsilon that things were not that simple and the decision-making was not always easy. Another thing I have learned is that a good leader is not necessarily someone who knows how to give orders. A good leader is someone who is genuinely concerned for the well-being of everyone he commands. He/She would put aside their own problems and work with his/her members in solving the problems of the community. Only then, will the leader be praised and gain respect from everyone.

There were many reasons why I chose to run for president. The main reason for running was I felt that I should give back to the fraternity. I feel that all the great memories I had during my college experience stemmed from this fraternity, and I wanted to do anything I can to help it flourish. I wanted to make sure that the brothers feel a sense of pride as members of the fraternity and that they continue to promote brotherhood.  By being president, you are given and allowed the greatest chance to make a difference for the better.

I believe inspiring people is the hardest part of being a leader. Everything is voluntary when it comes to helping out the fraternity. Although people have assigned tasks, it is up to themselves to determine the level of commitment.  I always felt that some of my guys should get paid for what they contribute to the fraternity because they go above and beyond of what is expected of them.  However, the only reward I could give them is praise and recognition for their actions. Inspiring people also means getting them to come out to events. It is not hard to have them come out to the social events. However, it is hard to have them come out to events such as meetings, fundraisers, and community services. I can’t force my guys to go out. I can only tell them that business must come before we are able to have fun.

I was able to learn a lot from my presidency. Speaking in public was something that I always feared. However, it was necessary in order to convey my message or ideals at numerous events. Even till this day, I hate speaking in public, but I feel that I am more capable now that I have more experience. I learned also to work with people in order to get something done. This past year, I had to work and keep relations with the school, the alumni, rival fraternities, sororities, and my own cabinet members. It can be difficult as each group’s ideals may differ from my own and sometimes tension can be high. For decision-making, the most important thing I’ve learned is to listen to everyone, as each person may offer a solution that wasn’t thought of before.

Although my presidency has been stressful, I am thankful everyday that I am a part of something like this. I am happy that I am able to leave a lasting impression on the fraternity.  I also had the opportunity to meet a lot of different people and build relationships with them. Nearing the end of my term, I feel proud of what I have accomplished. In my eyes, this is one of my greatest achievements, and I am content knowing that I have my all to make this fraternity better. My only hope is that the fraternity will always be there- not just surviving, but flourishing and forever achieving great things.

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