By Journalist Leandra Lepp (OBU)
Raising your hand, be bold, and apply for leadership!
Alondra Perez is a dedicated individual who has not only embraced the complexities of OIL but has taken the responsibility of guiding others through OIL. For Perez, one of the most challenging aspects has been guiding newcomers through the more complex motions and procedures. As a seven-star member, she understands the importance of teaching the basics. Reflecting on her early experiences, she realizes the value of knowing when to raise a placard or shout out specific phrases during the session. To help others in a way others have helped her, she conducts pop quizzes to ensure their group gains the necessary confidence.
When asked about her favorite aspect of OIL, Perez highlights the power of the press. She appreciates the freedom it offers, allowing her contributions to be posted and accessible on the website. Recalling a personal experience of someone interviewing them for dress up on spirit days, Perez notes how the press provides an alternative way to be noticed, creating lasting records of their involvement.
“My biggest obstacle for the session would be the struggle between balancing the various aspects of OIL, and as I got further into more responsibilities such as press, freshman liaison, and a house representative, it was hard to prioritize communicating with everyone, checking messages and following through with duties throughout the session,” Perez said.
As Perez approaches the end of their OIL journey, she express a keen awareness of the experience’s impact on their social connections. With friends from different schools and the realization that they may not see them as frequently, Perez acknowledges the significance of the friendships during their time in OIL, “I will miss the connections when everyone first gets here from the session and says hi to everyone has impacted me, especially when I look back at the friendships I have formed since my first year here,” Perez said.
Taking on various leadership positions, Perez believes that OIL has solidified her understanding of leadership and the impressions one leaves on others. She advises future participants, “Apply for leadership positions and do not shy away from making connections,” Perez said.
For Perez, OIl is more than a competition, it is about the interactions and connections made along the way,
“I love the competition part, but I’ve personally never been one to like to excel at the competition part. Mainly because, like, I always felt like really confused or I’ve always had to like maybe drop out of the competition early, but I mean, like, I always come back,” Perez said. As a communications major, Perez appreciates OIL’s diverse opportunities, from legislation, press, and more; there is something for everyone.
A favorite memory hers is declaring war on Texas, “the fact that oil is still perpetually in a war right now. And the fact that nobody seems to remember is very funny.” Perez said. “I hope somebody mentions it next session, because we are we’re definitely still in a war on Texas right now,” Perez said.
As Perez continues their journey, it will carry a good experience full of leadership insights and a passion for creating lasting connections.