By Raymond Philip, 2025-2026 International Vice President – Division II
Imagine receiving an email from a professor telling you to join an honor society because your GPA is outstanding. Skeptical, you finally pay the fee just to stop the reminders. One day, you decide to attend a meeting. You walk in not knowing anyone, unsure of where you belong, and wondering if you even have what it takes to lead—especially when everyone in the room seems incredibly smart.
That was me: quiet, curious, and unaware of the opportunities ahead. At first, PTK felt like any other student organization. But the more I got involved, the more I realized it was so much more. I was immediately thrust into the treasurer position, thinking it would be my only role. I was wrong. From small chapter projects to regional leadership and eventually the international stage, PTK became my leadership laboratory. It’s where I found my voice, built confidence, and turned my “what ifs” into action.
Chapter Leadership: The First Step
Starting as a chapter officer while still a new member was intimidating, but it was exactly what I needed to discover new skills and polish the ones I had. Many students think PTK is only about scholarships, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Taking on my first role set off a snowball effect. I not only gained a position that connected me across campus, but I also learned accountability, teamwork, and communication. I planned events, worked with fellow officers, and engaged with members. That small step—accepting leadership without experience—opened doors I never imagined.
Before that, I thought of myself as someone with little to contribute. But through interacting with members and leaders inside and outside PTK, I realized leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room. It’s about being consistent, supportive, and willing to learn. PTK gave me space to make mistakes, grow, and uncover strengths I didn’t know I had.
Regional Leadership: A Bigger Leap
From treasurer, I decided to run for District I Vice President—a decision that was terrifying and felt beyond my reach. Suddenly, I wasn’t just representing my chapter; I was helping lead an entire region of brilliant people.
Traveling to events, networking with officers, and working closely with advisors taught me adaptability, collaboration, and patience. I learned to handle greater responsibilities like organizing conferences and speaking in front of large groups. More than anything, I discovered the value of community.
International Leadership: A Global Perspective
The support I received at the chapter and regional levels carried me when I decided to run for international office. Representing thousands of members worldwide was surreal. It was a position I never imagined holding—especially as an international student, not fully proficient in English, and full of doubts.
But I learned that leadership opportunities don’t require specific qualities; they value the unique ones you already have. This mindset pushed me to grow for the people who believed in me. Serving as an International Officer showed me that leadership isn’t about personal achievements—it’s about sharing experiences, lifting others, and inspiring them.
Why You Should Say Yes
Every leadership role in PTK shaped me into the person I am today. It gave me confidence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of myself as both a leader and an individual. Leadership opportunities are always there—you just have to step up, even when it feels uncomfortable.
If you’re debating whether to run for a role, this is your sign. As Glennon Doyle once said, “If you can’t beat the fear, just do it scared.” And as Abel Morales reminds us, “When it feels scary to jump, that is exactly when you should jump.”
There’s no single “right” path. You can start at the chapter level or go straight for regional or international office. Whatever feels right in the moment—go with that. What begins as a hesitant “yes” could become the most transformative and memorable journey of your college experience.
