Reflection: 

I do believe I achieved the competencies and personal objectives I set for myself. I believe there is always more to learn but I do feel that I grew a lot over this past semester. Many of my competencies I set had to do with a lot of staff turnover we have had recently. We have had several new hires and that can always be an adjustment period. I believe a good leader is someone that identifies the personal strengths and attributes that each individual brings and works to make transitions as smooth as possible for the whole office. I tried to exemplify these qualities through competencies such as communicating thoroughly with other rehabilitation aides and office coordinators to ensure everyone knew their responsibilities. I also tried to maintain an approachable demeanor throughout the transitions so I could help answer any questions that arose. One specific competency I had outlined at the beginning of the semester was to remain calm and organized during busy times at the clinic. There are a few hours of overlap in which all therapists are working. There are several patients and often the aides can become stressed during that cross over time. The way I addressed this throughout the semester was to keep Athletico’s purpose in mind: we are there to treat the patients. Even if I felt a little stressed I tried to keep my composure and make sure each of my patients was taken care of. I think leaders must do everything they can to keep composure during turbulent times. It is not beneficial nor productive to break under pressure. It is best to anticipate any stresses that may occur. And, if the stress gets overwhelming, then realize it is time to reassess if something in the daily operations needs to be modified. My definition of a leader is dynamic. I do not believe that there is one set definition, instead, it is dependent on the situations we face. However, throughout this semester I do think I have been able to refine my definition of a leader more so. For example, after watching the therapists at Athletico interact with the rest of the staff and patients I think respect is one of the most important factors. Respect for differences in values, cultures, backgrounds, as well as methods for conflict resolution. Being a good leader entails being open to constructive criticism and possessing a readiness to learn from one another.

I enjoyed meeting with my supervisor to discuss my competencies throughout the semester. For me it was beneficial because I approached this project with an idea of how to attain my competencies, and was able to add upon those ideas throughout the semester. My supervisor and I were able to come up with new methods for how I can improve in my position during the mid-course evaluation and I am grateful for the feedback. The learning artifact I included here is a website to an event I helped out with on behalf of Athletico. It was an honor to represent Athletico at an event for the community of Evanston. I feel as though my regular meetings with my supervisor and quest to improve is why I was chosen to represent Athletico.

Below is the website for the Evanston’s YMCA Healthy Kids Day event. I was selected to represent my clinic at this year’s event. I was able to speak on behalf of Athletico in the Evanston community as families and young children attended to learn how to keep themselves healthy and active.