BPA Secretary, Patieya Curtis, recently embarked on an inspiring journey to Washington, D.C., representing her school and community with pride and enthusiasm.
This trip was part of an educational initiative aimed at fostering leadership skills and enhancing civic engagement among young leaders.
During her visit, Patieya had the unique opportunity to engage with key legislative figures, including writing a letter to Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández. This interaction provided her with invaluable insights into the legislative process and the importance of active participation in democracy.
Secretary Curtis Infront of Congresswoman Legar Fernández office door.
Patieya’s experience in Washington, D.C. was enriched by a series of workshops and seminars focused on leadership development. She learned about the five different categories of leadership voices and identified growth areas to improve her leadership skills. Emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, Patieya discovered that effective leadership begins with understanding oneself and building on personal strengths.
One of the key takeaways from the trip was the significance of making a strong first impression. Patieya mastered the art of creating a memorable elevator pitch and honed her networking skills with sponsors and partners. She learned that appearance, body language, and tone are crucial elements in making a lasting impression.
Secretary Curtis Infront of the United States Congress.
Secretary Curtis Infront of the United States Supreme Court.
In her interactions with partners, Patieya practiced speaking with intention, balancing confidence with active listening, and asking insightful questions. She embraced the “STEPS” method—Self, Topic, Examples, People, Support—to structure her communication effectively.
Patieya also explored the concept of the five circles of influence, understanding how to consistently move within these circles to impact her chapter and the broader community positively. Her journey underscored the importance of enthusiasm, self-awareness, and continuous personal growth in leadership.
Reflecting on her experience, Patieya said, “This trip was an unforgettable experience" She is excited to bring back the knowledge and skills she has gained to benefit our BPA chapter and our community.
Patieya Curtis’s trip to Washington, D.C. exemplifies the commitment of Kirtland Central High School’s BPA to nurturing future leaders who are well-equipped to make a positive impact on society. Her journey serves as an inspiration to her peers and a testament to the power of education and leadership development.
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