Sarah Abell: A Student Leader Making a Difference

The Path to IWU

Sarah Abell was first led to Indiana Wesleyan University by the combination of a vibrant campus culture, strong academic offerings, and the unwavering support of faculty members. Almost immediately, she began to feel that the sense of community at IWU was fostering meaningful connections for her while the wide range of academic programs ensured exceptional education alongside IWU’s culture of personal and spiritual growth. 

Experience at IWU

Sarah’s time at IWU has been remarkably fulfilling for her, largely due to the close-knit community she’s found and the genuine care she feels from people. The tight bonds she’s formed have created an environment where she feels supported and where the people she cares about look out for one another and lend a helping hand whenever needed. The sense of belonging she has and the people who she cares for and know care for her are what have made her time at IWU so special and rewarding.

Spiritual Growth at IWU

Sarah feels that her time at IWU has deeply influenced her faith journey. The university’s emphasis on integrating faith with learning has helped to strengthen her Christian values and provided practical ways to live them out. 

Working alongside her peers, knowing that they share a commitment to faith, has been especially impactful and fostered both spiritual growth and accountability. Overall, IWU has played a significant role in shaping her faith and preparing her to live out her beliefs in the wider world.

Becoming Part of the Student Government Association

Sarah’s journey into student government at IWU was inspired by her desire to actively engage with campus life and help further grow the sense of community here—especially after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

For Sarah, joining student government seemed to be the perfect opportunity to positively contribute to campus and connect with fellow students. Her first steps into student government came when she became an Academic Representative for the Honors College in SGA. 

Based on her experience in this role, she decided to then run for Student Body President, which she won two years in a row. During her time in these roles, Sarah has been able to give back to campus while also enriching her own college experience in several ways she never could have anticipated.

Surprises and Challenges

Throughout her time in student leadership, Sarah feels that she has faced various surprises and challenges that have shaped her growth. Being vulnerable as a leader, balancing academic demands with leadership responsibilities, and making tough decisions have all been notable hurdles for her. 

Even so, these experiences have taught her the importance of authenticity, time management, and empathy in leadership. The situations she has been in have also emphasized the value of actively seeking out support and feedback from both peers and mentors. 

Overall, Sarah’s journey in student leadership has been a valuable experience that has made her more resilient and empathetic as a leader.

Best Parts of Student Leadership

For Sarah, the best part of student leadership has been making a positive impact both on the campus and on the lives of her peers. She has gained valuable leadership, collaboration, and communication skills that she knows will follow her into her career.

Working with administration and listening to students has taught her adaptability and effective problem-solving, which she believes are essential leadership skills in any professional setting. Overall, Sarah feels that her experience has prepared her for future success.

Future Career Plans and Hopes

After graduation, Sarah plans to pursue a career in healthcare administration. She has felt drawn to this field specifically due to the leadership growth she has experienced at IWU. She aims to apply what she has learned in leadership to help improve healthcare delivery and ensure equitable access to quality services for all patients.

Her goal is to make a positive impact within the world of healthcare organizations while also actively contributing to the well-being of individuals and the communities they are part of.