Everything BITSoc Presidency Taught Me

When I first stepped into the role of President of the Business and IT Student Society (BITSoc), I knew it would be a big responsibility. What I didn’t know was just how much it would teach me — not just about leadership, but about myself. This year wasn’t only about running events or leading meetings. It was about learning to manage people, navigate challenges, and grow in ways I didn’t expect.

From the very start, it was clear that this role was going to require more than a good plan or strong technical skills. The most valuable skill I came to rely on was emotional intelligence — understanding people’s motivations, reading the room, and responding with empathy. I learned that drive is important, but it’s not just about my own. Being surrounded by individuals who are self-motivated, committed, and passionate is what truly moves a team forward. And part of my job was to make sure that drive stayed alive, even during the inevitable late nights and stressful moments.

One of my biggest personal growth moments came from delegation. I’ll admit, I started off wanting to have a hand in everything — partly because I cared so much, partly because I wasn’t sure if letting go would mean things wouldn’t get done “right.” But I quickly learned that holding on too tightly is a fast track to burnout. Trusting others with real responsibility didn’t just protect my mental health; it gave them space to shine. And more often than not, they came up with ideas and solutions I wouldn’t have thought of myself.

Another lesson that came sooner rather than later was how to navigate bureaucracy and competing priorities. Working with clubs, faculty, partners, and different campus departments meant understanding that everyone operates under their own timelines, rules, and constraints. I had to learn when to push, when to adapt, and when to compromise. Collaboration isn’t always smooth, but when you take the time to understand the other side’s priorities, it’s a lot easier to find common ground and keep projects moving forward.

Change was another constant this year — whether it was shifts in plans, unexpected challenges, or new opportunities we hadn’t anticipated. I learned that managing change isn’t just about having a Plan B; it’s about guiding the people around you through uncertainty. Sometimes that meant adjusting my own expectations, sometimes it meant rallying the team to see the bigger picture, and sometimes it meant simply saying, “We’ll figure this out together.”

Of course, the year wasn’t all behind-the-scenes challenges. We had moments that truly stood out — from our winter networking mixer, Frosty Connections, to wrapping up the year with a red carpet-themed gala that celebrated our student leaders and brought the community together for one final night of connection and fun.

Looking back, this year as BITSoc President was one of the most intense, rewarding, and growth-filled experiences of my life. I learned how to lead, but more importantly, I learned how to listen, trust, and adapt. I’ll carry those lessons — about emotional intelligence, drive, delegation, collaboration, and change — far beyond this role, into every challenge I take on next.