Kayelyn Jett

 

 

Definition: The ability to collaborate, listen, communicate, support, empathize, and compromise with others to reach a shared goal. 

 

Criteria: Trust, faithfulness, friendliness, approachability, commitment to include everyone.

 

Situation: The words "now announcing the beautiful, talented, and award-winning Patriettes of Atascocita High School," began every dance routine the Patriettes drill team performed and marked the beginning of my most influential experience working with others. As a high school freshman I joined the 70 member Patriettes drill team and to say I was thrilled is an understatement!  Unfortunately, it did not last--in the fall of my sophomore year I was not chosen to return to the team. 

 

Task: After this rejection, my personal mission became gaining readmittance onto the team. However, this time I was blessed with a friend also seeking a spot on the team, Megan. She and I quickly became close after we met in an intermediate dance class through the high school and we bonded through our shared purpose.

 

Action: Inspired by my new friend, I sought out others to work towards this goal with from various sources. Together, with a group of about five others, we practiced our dance techniques and reached out to current drill team officers for assistance and improvement in our skills.

 

Result: Our hard work payed off and we all excitedly joined the Patriettes! Interestingly, this opportunity to work with 5 others led to an opportunity to work with 70 others and perform as a cohesive unit. Regardless of the routine or event our team was preparing for, I learned the joy which comes from partaking in something larger than yourself. 

 

Takeaway: Thankfully, drill team provided me with much more than a love for red lipstick. Drill team taught me the value of persistence and a strong work ethic as well as reliability which has carried over into other team-oriented situations. Through my friend Megan, I learned how to establish connections and that, sometimes, the tightest friends come from working with others towards a mutual goal.