[Young Leaders at PennSchool] Leadership Begins with Care

At PennSchool, it is not only the teachers but also the student leaders who play an essential role in fostering connection and a spirit of sharing within the community.

During her 3 years at PennSchool, Mai Nguyen Phuong Trang has embarked on a memorable journey – one marked by academic growth and leadership. These experiences have brought her valuable lessons, proud moments, and opportunities to overcome challenges, helping her become more resilient and confident.

“I have been privileged to hold 2 key positions of leadership at PennSchool: President of the Student Council and the Head Prefect of the school’s first generation of Prefects. Both roles were challenging, but they both helped shape me as a student and as a leader. I initially applied to the Student Council, hoping to serve as a PR Officer. Later on, I was appointed by the Board of Principals to become the President. The news both thrilled and terrified me simultaneously because I did not know whether I was prepared for the task. Over time, I achieved equilibrium and confidence in myself.

One of the turning points was organising Prom, an activity that I feared because I had no experience before. Yet, thanks to the efforts of the Student Council team, not only did we host a successful celebration, but we raised meaningful funds – an achievement I remain proud of. Taking on the role of Head Prefect was another milestone. Being in the first Prefects generation, I would usually be uncertain at first. However, with constant interaction with my co-Head Prefect and the support of the teachers, I started acquiring experience and asserting myself confidently in my role.

These experiences have enabled me to acquire the required skills such as communication, time management, problem-solving, and teamwork. Most significantly, I learned to stay calm under pressure and to inspire others through sympathy and positivity. Balancing school assignments and leadership responsibilities was not always easy, but these experiences strengthened me and reminded me that leadership involves serving. As I always remind myself of a famous saying by Simon Sinek: “Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.”

Throughout her journey at PennSchool, Phuong Trang has made her mark not only as an outstanding student but also as a courageous young leader. From organizing events and guiding her peers to learning how to balance academics with leadership responsibilities, these experiences have enabled her to grow and mature. Her story is a testament to the values that PennSchool continually fosters in every student: the belief that the journey of leadership begins with care and compassion, empowering students to actively gain knowledge, build resilience, and confidently embrace the best version of themselves.