Jenna Coles is a sophomore here at UK and is currently pursuing degrees in both Agricultural Economics and Accounting. Jenna is involved in many clubs on campus, she is the Academic and Student Affairs Vice Chair for SGA, the leadership chair for Sigma Alpha, the secretary of the Ag Econ Quiz Bowl Team, College of Ag Ambassador, Honors Ambassador, tour guide, and mock trial member. Jenna is also actively involved in the Collegiate Farm Bureau and Collegiate Cattleman's. In addition to these activities, Jenna is leading the AgriBusiness Club. Below, she shares her insight on how leadership roles have impacted her life.  

Q: Why did you want to be in a leadership position? 

A: Jenna enjoys holding leadership roles because her natural instinct is to lead others. Her favorite thing about being a leader is the growth opportunity it provides for herself and others. Jenna enjoys being able to foster growth in her peers, however, she also loves that her peers enhance her personal growth.  

Q: What skills or knowledge have you gained from being in a leadership position? 

A: Jenna has gained many different skill sets throughout all of her leadership positions. A skill that Jenna is particularly thankful for is learning how to manage her time. In being involved in so many things, Jenna has seen the importance in knowing how to prioritize tasks. Jenna has also learned how to communicate and work with a diverse set of people and supervisors which will benefit her throughout her future endeavors. Something new she has started to dabble with is social media management through AgriBusiness Club. 

Q: What is your advice to students interested in taking leadership roles? 

A: Jenna says the best way to know if a leadership role is for you is to simply get involved! She encourages students to ask questions from the leaders they admire and possibly shadow positions in which they may see themselves holding. Jenna advises really learning about the club or organization that you are looking to get involved with and seeing if their priorities align with your own. She says it is important to make sure the role is a good fit for you and vice versa.  

Jenna encourages students to get out there and get involved in at least one club. She has found so much joy and growth in participating in clubs and representing organizations here on campus. Finding a club in which you can develop as a person and a professional provides you with invaluable experience.