After being elected vice president of communications for the Ohio Gamma Chapter at Ohio State, I knew there were a few conferences and events I was required to attend – one of them being Carlson Leadership Academy in Chicago, Ill. Having no previous knowledge of Carlson, I initially thought this was going to be another time consuming conference that would just deprive me of homework time. Fortunately, I was very wrong. 

At Carlson I was very excited when we broke down into subgroups, each comprised of SigEps in similar officer positions at their respective chapters. After breaking down risk management ideology, we dove deep into vice president of communications roles, responsibilities, and various techniques that each chapter uses. 

Proper social media etiquette was a hot topic, and we digested how to use it efficiently to spread the word about events, and the Fraternity as a whole. We also shared marketing plans and asked questions about how to properly stay connected with alumni.

All in all, Carlson Leadership Academy was an insightful experience. As an incoming vice president, I appreciate each and every piece of advice I can get to help guide my chapter. I am grateful for all the alumni and volunteers that made Carlson happen, which in turn will have an impact on SigEp chapters across the nation.

Taylor is a sophomore at Ohio State studying Computer and Information Science.