by RYAN SAUNDERS
Intern News Reporter

Appalachian State University is now offering a minor in leadership studies to prepare new generations of leaders.

Christian E. Baucum, freshman biology major, is in the process of learning and exploring her options as a new student. Her history in leadership has caused her to inquire about this recent program.

Jim Street, associate director for the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership, discusses classes for the minor in leadership with junior business management major R. Bryan Holbrook Tuesday. Photo by Holt Menzies

“In high school I was the president of three clubs and as a Plemmons Leadership Fellow, I was required to take a leadership class in my freshman year,” she said. “I understand it is important to learn about [leadership] along with actually doing it—meaning this curriculum is going to be important for me to improve my leadership capabilities.”

She plans to use her skills obtained through the leadership minor, as well as her major, to run her own aquarium in the future, she said.

The full concept of a minor in leadership studies is relativity new to the university, and the minor’s enrollment is in the process of exploration and growth.

Jim Street, associate director for the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership said the leadership minor is unique because the faculty intends to work cooperatively with students.

A separate advisor will be provided, solely for planning the schedules of participants, he said.

An advisor is assigned to ensure students are provided a variety of classes in business management, communications, recreation sports and psychology.

Street said it is important interested students talk to him as early as possible so he can make sure they are on track.

All majors are eligible for the leadership minor, he said.

Because the minor is new, students currently involved will be heavily relied upon to spread their knowledge and experience.

Katherine A. Stucke, junior communication studies major, said she openly invites potential participants to talk to her or other leadership studies students.

They are excited about the program and wish to see it expand, she said.

Leadership is multi-faceted, and provides flexibility for students to reach outside their majors, explore and build a well-rounded understanding of what it takes to be a leader.

Although Stucke is a communication studies major, she has learned a lot from classes and they have made her reach beyond her comfort zone, she said.

“I took a leadership and group dynamic class in the Recreation Management Department, learning skills working as a group, processing and leading in different situations,” she said. “These activities have been very beneficial and I use these skills in all of my endeavors.”

Stucke said there is a negative connotation associated with leadership and feels it is important to point out leadership is not defined by one thing.

Students should not give up because of weakness or fear, but should take every opportunity possible to develop as leaders, she said.

Students interested in the leadership studies minor can attend an information session today, in the Watauga River Room in Plemmons Student Union at 4 p.m.

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