Leadership and Hermione Granger by Avery

Leadership and Hermione Granger by Avery - October 2025 Scholarship Essay

Who doesn't love the Harry Potter series? To me, Hermione Granger is the perfect protagonist, even though she is considered a secondary character, I think she is main character material. Leadership is stepping up when others need someone to support them, setting an example through working hard every day to be 10% better, and putting people before yourself. Hermione exemplifies all of these. Being a senior on the Page High School softball team has taught me that leadership is not just about being in charge for the title, but it is also about responsibility, respect, and helping everyone succeed together.
One example of showing leadership is by leading through your actions. Hermione is such a perfect example of this, she leads Harry to the correct path all the while being a friend and showing up when needed. A true leader will show up even when it is hard, and push themselves to be better every day. On my team, I try to set that example, whether it's starting everyone on stretches, leading drills, practicing on my own time, or encouraging others who are struggling. I know the younger girls watch how I carry myself, and if I slack off, it gives others the idea that they can do the same. If I focus and work hard, then others will follow my lead. I want my actions to always motivate others positively.
Leadership can also mean encouraging and supporting others on their good and bad days. Softball is a very mental sport, and when someone strikes out or misses a ball, I make sure to make it known to them that they are still valuable. I know that it helps me when someone chooses to cheer me on, so I make it a priority to do the same for them. Leadership includes making sure no one feels left out or unimportant.
Another crucial part of leadership is communication. On the field, it is very important that teammates talk to each other, and if you are the one always hyping people up and telling them where to go and what to do, they go on to look at you as someone they can trust with information and questions. Calling for a fly ball, letting your pitcher know you have her back, or keeping the dugout's energy up are all examples of communication on the field. Listening is also just as important as talking. Off the field, I make sure that I am approachable and kind so the other girls feel comfortable talking to me. This is important because I remember being a freshman, sophomore, or junior and having times where I felt like I had no one to talk to or trust. So, I want to be that person I never felt that I had.
Finally, leadership means being responsible. As a senior, I have realized that I represent my team, my coaches, and my school whenever I do anything. This means not falling to peer pressure, making responsible choices, and respecting everyone. Leadership doesn't just apply to softball, but to my character. How I carry myself on the field should reflect how I go about everyday life.
In conclusion, leadership whether on the softball field or in the halls of Hogwarts is about setting examples, supporting others, communicating well, and taking responsibility. Being a leader on my Page High School softball teams and in life in general has taught me so many lessons. I hope that the way I lead today will inspire others to do the same when I have graduated and moved on. Who knows, maybe I can be someone's Hermione Granger!