I’ve spent my entire junior year as my chapter’s N’siah. With all the stress of junior year, it can be hard to juggle this responsibility, but I wouldn’t trade my time as N’siah for the world. It’s been such a formative experience. A year ago, I wouldn’t have recognized myself. N’siah has taught me to step up and grow into my voice. I’ve had to step out of my comfort zone to build up this chapter, and it's allowed me to grow in other aspects of my life, too.

Unfortunately, many people characterize N’siah as a “laid back position,” but it’s truly what you make of it. You can sit back and hope that everyone on board knows what they're doing, and you can also be overbearing and micromanage each role. Having been a part of board for three terms before, I’d experienced both, and neither seemed quite right. I’d also been part of boards that were disconnected, and I knew that wasn’t the best way to lead our chapter forward.

Going into N’siah, I wanted to be a hands-on leader, providing support without taking over. I didn’t want to just maintain the chapter but also BUILD the chapter, and I did just that. I worked with each role to outline responsibilities and goals for the term, looking through our platforms. This helped set the precedent. I also made sure that board dynamics were strong, holding regular meetings, check-ins, and bonding. When the board is bonded, it’s much easier to work cohesively and efficiently. On top of working with the board, I made sure to strengthen chapter identity and environment. I went out of my way to text members and talk to them throughout programming. To build these connections, I made sure to talk about things outside of BBYO and made them feel seen. Also, I worked alongside the board to promote more involvement, which led to record-breaking highs with MLN/ILN roles, steering positions, convention attendance, summer program registration, and interest in board/chair positions. This jump demonstrated the impact of making people feel at home within our chapter, as well as inspired by what BBYO has to offer. Lastly, I’ve created new opportunities for leadership, which allowed girls to get a good sense of the behind-the-scenes. These opportunities included board shadowing and member-led programs.

My time as N’siah has been AMAZING. It is beyond fulfilling to see how my work and support translates into impact. It’s been two terms PACKED with all sorts of experiences, filled with highs and lows, but I’ve loved my time on chapter board more than words can express.