Senior Amy May West has been selected as the Student Leader of the Month for November. Originally from St. Francisville, Louisiana, Amy May came to the University of Arkansas to major in agricultural business. She currently serves as the vice president of Associated Student Government, is a member of the Honors College and is involved with organizations including Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority, Diamond Dolls, Agricultural Business Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, and Order of Omega. Although West initially joined a plethora of organizations, she decided to maintain certain memberships that allowed her to have an impact on campus and grow into her ideal self.

When asked what she thought a leader’s most important quality is, West said, “The most important characteristic of a leader is his or her ability to recognize that they have accepted additional responsibilities by taking on that leadership role and that they are in the role to serve.”

West’s advice to current and aspiring student leaders is simple. She said, “Don’t be afraid to ask meaningful questions, and when you’re asked questions, don’t be afraid to not know the answer. As a leader, if you automatically have an answer for everything that is asked of you, it may be a sign that you’re not thinking intentionally when you are asked questions. By not being intentional with people, your credibility will be limited and you’re likely to miss an opportunity.”

The Student Leader of the Month award, sponsored by New Student & Family Programs, recognizes University of Arkansas undergraduate students for their excellence in leadership through campus involvement, leadership activities, or through volunteer and community service. More information about the award can be found here.