I am Darius Desean Presley.

Assignment #1: Who do you think you are?

1) Why are you taking Leadership for Change?

I needed two credit hours to reach my 120 hour graduation requirement and did not have a clue as to what class I wanted to register for. So, I asked my co-worker, Shakita Perdue, if she had any good suggestions. She not only suggested AAST 294 but, went on to inform me of all the positive aspects of the professor. With that being said, I decided to attend the first class an hour prior to it beginning.

I have decided to remain in AAST 294 because the topic of the course runs parallel to what I have not witnessed during my long years of education. I am interested in following the professor's approach on conducting this course without any regard to traditional instruction. I, too, will become an educator in a couple of months so I am hoping to develop my teaching philosophy as I remain in the course.

2) What do you hope to get out of the course?

To be honest, I would like to carefully examine and self reflect on all aspects of this course, only to self assess whether I will retain the material that will be presented throughout the semester. So, I guess what I'm hoping to leave with after taking this course is: a new perspective on who I am as an individual without limiting myself to other perspectives, as well as finding out why students are eager to register for any course that this professor teaches.

3)

As a child, I was attracted and fascinated with my success in grammar school. I was doing well and I could not believe it. I began to notice that one of my stronger skills in school was and still is, writing.

I believe I live the most through my hearing and vision. I do not speak much but, my lack of speech is compensated with my hearing. I will listen and reflect on what is being heard so that I can prepare to express myself with writing. As for my vision, it's not the best but it has allowed me to see things and people for who they really are, even when they are not sure who they are.

I love to think of all the things that I want to create and build. I daydream of leaving behind small apartments for a large estate with a 5 car heated garage with the 12 foot ceilings. When I'm being realistic in my daydreaming, I love to plan for the day when I can repay those that supported me through the good and bad times.

I don't have any secret dreams, fantasies, or games that I have not told anyone. I do not hesitate when it comes to voicing my dreams because I want people to remember somewhere in their heads that I told them what I would accomplish when the time comes.

I feel that my interests point to my ability to remain grounded in dedication.