Aileen Kopping Email & Phone Number

In school, I was "the responsible one," and as a roommate, I earned the title "the party planner." I think it all began when I was about three years old and started attending pre-school with my older brother. At the end of the first day, a teacher pulled my mother aside and informed her that I would be running the place in a few years if the staff wasn't careful. Though I have no memory of that specific event, I do have fond memories of leadership experiences and opportunities during the years following that encounter.I was fortunate to grow up in a family that loved the Scouts BSA program. Scouting taught me that teams go through stages of development and that we should never avoid conflict. Having mentors that advised my fellow youth leaders and me was the highlight because I learned how to take ownership, reflect and improve over time. One scouting experience that helped me grow was my time at National Youth Leadership Training, a weeklong leadership camp dedicated to teaching and facilitating group development. I was amazed that my peers at age 14 could be trusted and lead with such confidence, and I knew I wanted to learn and grow in that same environment. The hardest lesson I learned from my scouting days was that every team eventually dissolves while others form. I moved from Idaho to Utah during these influential years, and I experienced some culture shock and differences in procedure and attitude. Still, I ultimately learned how to identify, listen to, and value diversity in any situation. When I began studying at Utah State, I was invited to check out the Logan Institute's "club rush" during the first month of school. I was clueless about the purpose of each club, but I found myself drawn to the Dance Committee. A whole year later, I am not just a dedicated member but a co-chairperson, leading and planning with a great team of students. So far, I have learned that patience with myself and others is the only way to bring our ideas to life. Looking forward, I know that I was raised and trained to be a leader. I have confidence in my ability to grow in any occupational capacity I encounter in the future. I love working with people and training others to lead and communicate in business settings because I know anyone can develop those leadership qualities for themselves and their own companies. I know that perfection is unrealistic, but any worthy dream can become a reality with humility and drive.