Dina Makadiya

Being the center of attention is not something Dina Makadiya seeks, but the University of North Georgia (UNG) student does not let that keep her from leading. As president of the Asian Student Association (ASA) on UNG's Gainesville Campus, she aims to create a welcoming environment for new members.

"We try to make it a little less scary for them. They're coming into a new place," she said. "They may not know people. We want to give them a place where they can make friends and fit in."

As ASA president, Makadiya shines a light on her Indian heritage. Her parents are from India while she is a native of Toronto, Canada. Makadiya wants to share her cultural traditions with fellow students.

For the student pursuing a degree in biology, the ability to delegate tasks comes from realizing even leaders need help and others can thrive through added responsibility.

"You have to be able to work with other people," Makadiya said. "Leadership is not about you. You're working together to get an entire group somewhere."

She said people do not enjoy being bossed around, and listening is a vital skill for successful leadership.

"People in your group may have ideas that you may not have thought of," Makadiya said. "Letting them take the reins sometimes can be beneficial."

After she graduates in May 2023, Makadiya plans to apply to Doctor of Physical Therapy programs. She was inspired to take that path after a high school sports medicine class.

As Makadiya continues to make progress toward her bachelor's degree, she welcomes the growth she has experienced as a leader.

"Through my leadership role, I have made a lot of lifelong friends," Makadiya said. "I've also learned that just because you may stumble and fall, that doesn't mean that's the end of it."