UT’s sophomore Forty Acres Scholars attended the 2013 Hatton W. Sumners Undergraduate Leadership Conference hosted by the Center for Ethical Leadership and organized by LBJ School of Public Affairs professor Howard Prince.

The conference focused on inspiring students to seek and accept leadership responsibilities. Forty Acres Scholar Ashley Chang says the conference completely exceeded her expectations. “The speeches and the elective sessions about leadership were extremely beneficial and enlightening,” Chang says. “I really enjoyed every single presentation and event that was set up for us.”

Chang says her favorite part was listening to the speakers talk about their own life experiences. “There were just certain presentations that I know we’ll never forget because of how inspiring they were,” she says. “I loved hearing about everything they’ve done, the journeys they’ve gone through, and how they’ve handled obstacles to make the best of the situations they were given.”

Although the conference focused on the educational components of developing leaders, there was still enough time for some fun and games. Chang says the social events, dinners, and karaoke nights were aspects of the conference that she thoroughly enjoyed. These events allowed her to form strong friendships through informal interaction with other students.

“It was great to be with students from different schools all over the U.S.,” Chang says. “We were all inspired to pursue our dreams and become better leaders in our daily lives.”