Why do you want to become a member of the Presidential Leadership Academy? I would like to become a member of the Presidential Leadership Academy (PLA) because I am determined to be a successful student at Elmhurst College. The program focuses on helping students, like me, who need academic support and guidance. To achieve my best self, I will need the friends, mentors, teachers and supporters that I would be fortunate enough to meet at the Academy. The PLA will prepare me to self-reflect as I continue to become a more thoughtful person. I consider myself a leader and an independent thinker, I am aware that I have a lot to learn about how to be a responsible, productive and successful leader. The PLA would show me how to take the initiative when I have a good idea and want to put it into practice. When I enter the workforce or join a club or organization, I want to have the leadership skills that help me, my colleagues, and society. I believe that becoming a member of the PLA at Elmhurst College will change the path of my life. I think it would help me in ways I can't even imagine...