HERALD THE BEDAN student leaders as they fervently unite in answering the clarion call to serve the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). With the student body poised to exercise its voice once more in the General Elections, a paramount question arises: What kind of leaders should the next Student Council (SC) have? We spoke to Prof. Marvin Reyes, PhD, the Prefect of Student Activities, to discuss.
Many scholars have offered diverse perspectives on the concept of student leadership. To some, it denotes an amalgamation of skills such as “possessing an intrinsic drive, an ability to communicate effectively, a collaborative aptitude, innovative problem-solving, and a commitment to serving others.” However, Bedan student leaders embody certain core values that indisputably set them apart from others.
What the OPSA says
Having paved the path for numerous student leaders throughout the years, the CAS Prefect of Student Activities, Prof. Marvin Reyes, Ph.D., sheds light on what truly matters in representing and advocating for the Bedan community.
“For the past years, there are some Student Council officers who, unfortunately, don’t have the knack to listen,” said Dr. Reyes, while emphasizing on how being receptive to concerns and the willingness to engage in dialogue are vital in ensuring that the SC remains attuned to the pulse of the student body.
Most importantly, Dr. Reyes underscores that it would be “misguided” for student leaders to rely solely on the guidance of respected alumni and political advisers. While these voices may hold sway due to their experience and influence, it is far more essential for Bedan student leaders to prioritize their own active engagement and observations within the University.
It cannot be overlooked how leaders, when thrust into a new environment or system, are placed in a unique position, as the exigencies of time demand a recalibration of their approaches. Solutions, after all, cannot be conceived in a vacuum; they must be seamlessly woven into the prevailing status quo. Thus, the mandate for the next leaders is not merely to address problems but to adjust and navigate a way towards progress.
Upon recounting previous instances where leaders failed to recognize the true needs of the student body, Dr. Reyes also “cautions” prospective leaders to “eschew the temptation” of portraying themselves as “saviors.” They are ultimately “servants” of the student body and should not only be humble, but also receptive towards the concerns of everyone; after all, “At the end of the day, the Student Council who listens…will not lose their way,” added Dr. Reyes.
The SC in the “New Normal”
In regard to the incumbent SC’s efforts to restore a sense of normalcy and reinstate institutional traditions that were once obstructed by the pandemic, Dr. Reyes contends that one thing the next leaders should learn from them, is to “lead with a purposeful vision.”
When addressing certain challenges in student governance pertaining to internal and external relations, Dr. Reyes also stressed the need for “professionalism and maturity.” He hopes that the next leaders can “overcome their differences, look beyond political affiliations, and present a unified front” for the student body and administration.
In responding to the inevitable scrutiny and criticism that accompany leadership roles, Dr. Reyes advises leaders that the burden of the spotlight entails a “character of transparency and accountability.” The forthcoming leaders should acknowledge the reality that, irrespective of the success of their endeavors, criticism persists. Consequently, they must regard these occurrences as avenues for personal growth and development.
Finally, Dr. Reyes underscores the fundamental notion that student leaders are first and foremost “students.” “They have to be ready… When you’re part of the Student Council, ibang iba talaga sa pagiging regular student. Ibang iba when you’re already in the Student Council, where you’ll really understand the culture and the movement of the school,” he accentuates, highlighting the rigorous demands inherent in the roles within the student council.
Despite all these expectations, Dr. Reyes reminds student leaders to “enjoy the journey” of running for office and to approach their roles with “sincerity and dedication,” while letting them know that he looks forward to their service.
Ultimately, the kind of leaders the student body needs is the embodiment of Bedan stewardship—a leader who astutely listens, judiciously serves, and ardently champions Bedan values. With all these considerations in mind, may the legacy of Bedan student leadership continue to illuminate a path forward, ensuring that the voices of the student body remain valued in the name of San Beda, our country, and God.