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As part of my program, my class is required to take some leadership training to prepare us for our summer practicum. We have a total of four that are supposed to help us learn how to deal with conflict, manage our working relationships and just… lead.

It almost seems pointless, leadership training. I mean, we always hear that some people are born leaders, and others are not. I don’t buy that, though. Not everyone is “born” a leader, nor does being born with characteristics of a leader mean you’re a good one. All of us are going to be in some sort of leadership role, be it big or small, and it makes sense that we prepare for them as best we can before we get there.

To me, leadership is a learned skill. In the years I’ve been at U of T, I found that the workshops and seminars I attended about leadership actually helped me. I didn’t just accidentally stumble into these workshops though. Many of them I had to go to because of my student group (U of T has this rule that groups with offices have to go to ULead training).

Anyway, I thought it would be a good idea to look at some of the leadership training offered for grad students. In addition to the GPS program I talked about before, there are a couple series and and resources that I thought you all might be interested in.

1. Graduate Student Leadership Workshop Series

This series of workshops is very similar to the workshops I am doing for my program. I find that these workshops are great for already established groups. Learning about group dynamics and how to handle conflict within your class, or work group, really helps bring the team together.

2. Ulead Workshops

If you are part of a student club, chances are you already know about the Ulead Workshops. The series is divided into five categories: communication, organizational development, finance, membership engagement and leadership. Although leadership is its own category, all the workshops are very useful.

3. Living Leadership Blog

Leadership is a lifestyle. The Living Leadership blog looks at some of U of T leaders, and gives insight on how to develop your skills. Currently, their “Leadership is…” context is happening. Entrants share their thoughts on leadership in 500 words, and winner gets a $50 gift certificate.

Everybody can be a leader. You just have to work on the skills that can help you shine. There are many skills and characteristics of a leader, and each set will be unique to you. Put yourself out there and good luck!