Senior demonstrates Stuart-shaped skills at Barnard’s NextGen Leadership Institute

Stuart students have opportunities to bring their confidence, compassion, and initiative into new settings that challenge them to grow. Over the summer, Vivian Wang ’26 participated in Barnard College’s NextGen Leadership Institute, a program designed to deepen academic curiosity and strengthen leadership skills. Below, she shares her reflection on the experience:⁠
⁠
"During a leadership course at the Barnard summer program, our instructor asked us to identify four major issues society needs to address today. Although I was sitting toward the back, I raised my hand and shared my belief that mental health remains one of the most pressing and overlooked challenges. Later, we were divided into small groups to explore our chosen issue. I noticed that my group members were quiet and unsure of where to start, so I took the initiative to lead the discussion.⁠
⁠
I guided everyone to think about why we chose mental health, what problems exist in society, and how we could address them. Under my direction, the group began to open up and share thoughtful, creative ideas. Most of my teammates were introverted, so I volunteered—along with two friends—to present in front of over 300 participants.⁠
⁠
With only ten minutes to prepare our poster, we had to improvise. Since I had proposed the theme, I began our presentation by explaining that each of us plays different roles in society—storytellers, organizers, listeners—but no matter the role, we can all contribute to supporting those struggling with mental health challenges. Our speech concluded with enthusiastic applause from the audience, which made me feel both proud and deeply fulfilled.⁠
⁠
I believe this experience reflects the skills I’ve developed at Stuart—the confidence to speak in front of large audiences, the courage to share my ideas, and the ability to take a leadership role among people I’ve just met."