Ralph Waldo Emerson: Student Leader

“Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.” This quote said by author Ralph Waldo Emerson is often said by athletes, businessmen, and optimists alike and give them an extra boost of encouragement. From my personal experiences and thoughts, it is true that if one never tries to improve, one never will. When I want to become a leader, when an acquaintance wants to become better, and when one truly believes in themselves, we can master anything. When I was a sophomore in high school, I had the highest flute score in my wind ensemble and was already set to be the student leader over all of the flutes in my marching band. Only another option revealed itself—the drum major position. The former drum major was a senior, so a new one was required. I had never been interested, but when a friend recommended that I try out as a freshman, I agreed. That decision changed my future tremendously. I spent three months working and practicing with countless of mentors, preparing for my tryout. When they rolled around, I remained calm and collected. After a few weeks, my results came back with good news. Aiming for more has been one of the best decisions of my life. There
When he said, “Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow,” he was referring to his personal experiences and how self-confidence helped him to become what he wanted. I became the drum major by pure hard work and dedication, and even though I was already the best, I wanted to become better. My friend was the smartest dancer and even when she was the most beautiful dancer my school has ever seen, she pursued an exciting career in professional dance. Everyone has the power to do more, some just need a little inspiration and encouragement. Remember what Emerson said and go out into the world and change it a little every day. Mastery is only the