Written by: Ajit Pawar, MS in Finance ’24
I had the privilege of participating in “Next Level – A Leadership Mentoring Experience” conference organized by Student Engagement at the University at Buffalo. This half-day, gamified conference for UB student leaders proved to be a transformative experience, contributing significantly to my growth and development as a leader.
The event’s program was meticulously designed, offering a blend of interactive sessions and networking opportunities. The gamified approach not only made the conference engaging but also provided a unique platform to hone leadership skills. During the game orientation and mentor team huddles, I learned to collaborate effectively with diverse individuals, fostering teamwork and strategic thinking.
The speed mentoring session was a standout element, allowing me to interact with seasoned leaders from Western New York. Engaging in one-on-one conversations with mentors provided valuable insights into their leadership styles, helping me refine my own approach. Networking during the coffee break and team matching for the competition extended beyond professional connections, leading to the formation of new friendships with like-minded individuals driven to succeed.
The conference also emphasized the importance of gratitude and recognition in leadership. The heartfelt thank-you messages to Luke Capovani, Mckenna Koch and Branden Lary highlighted the significance of acknowledging and appreciating the efforts of team members. This experience instilled in me the understanding that genuine appreciation fosters a positive team culture and enhances collective success.
The entire event was a testament to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Competency for Leadership, showcasing examples of effective teamwork, communication and interpersonal skills. Engaging with mentors and fellow student leaders allowed me to develop a better understanding of my own leadership style and learn from the diverse approaches of others.
My participation in the “Next Level” conference was a pivotal moment in my leadership journey. It not only provided a platform for skill-building and networking but also fostered a sense of gratitude and teamwork essential for effective leadership. The cross-disciplinary knowledge shared by the professional staff, leadership coaches and volunteers at Student Engagement added depth to my learning experience, making it a comprehensive and impactful event.
Bio: Ajit, an MSF student, entered the program with six years of banking and business experience. He earned a BSc, Nanoscience and Technology Research and an MA, Sociology, from Shivaji University. Ajit and his teammates recently received First Prizes at the Startup Bootcamp organized by Startup and Innovation Collaboratory (CoLab) and at the Next Level Leadership Mentoring Conference hosted by Student Engagement. In addition to being a Dean’s Student Ambassador, he is a Venture Coach at UB Startup and Innovation Collaboratory powered by Blackstone LaunchPad. With a keen interest in the intersection of finance and technology, Ajit embraces a commitment to creating a positive impact on a broader scale. He enjoys spending time with friends and family, watching web series and reading.
Photo credit: Tom Wolf