Well this is Friday night. Campaigning is essentially over and before I turn my attention to the 3 midterms I have next week I’ll put a few words down to reflect on this campaign week.

I’ve learned a lot about assumptions, cynicism, and competition. People assume that since a presidential race is a competition; that the contestants are all competing to try and gain something, as if being president is some big prize for your resume. Otherwise why compete?

It’s a question I asked myself before deciding to run. I’m competing because I appreciate where I am, and I have something to give; a message, and the desire and creativity to see that message through. Anyone can get involved here at Schulich, you don’t have to be president. A community of leaders should not watch and follow their president. They should lead, take chances and give others opportunities. But it helps to have a president who is willing to lead by example. I’d like to see a president who gives opportunities rather than takes opportunities, actively encourages people to take those opportunities, and supports an environment where we can test our limits without fear of failure.

That’s where I usually get cynicism. It’s hard for people in a business school to see where sharing your energy comes into play, other than as a networking tool. It’s very easy to be negative and doubtful because things seem improbable, but ask yourself what your negativity is accomplishing. Do you want to turn people on or turn them off?

So was I just running for president to show people that things are possible? No, although that wouldn’t be a bad lesson for some. I didn’t run because it would be easy to win, or difficult to win. I ran because of what I would do if I won.

When I began talking to people about my vision I realized that I’m not alone. There are people who value a purpose beyond profit, and who believe not everything revolves around competitive advantage. If the quietist, shyest among us, finally feels included and inspired to participate then my “campaign” was successful.

When I tell people I go to Schulich, even people from York, they raise their eyebrows as if they just figured me out. B-School means something to them that it doesn’t mean to me. Coldness, greed, and a tunnel vision for profit. I see potential leaders who can use their intellect and creativity to stand up things previous generations were embarrassed to mention. (Lest someone mistake them for a York poly-sci major).

2 years ago I was at a low point. I had lost all momentum and energy. I appreciate where I am now and I am proud of the growth I have experienced within these walls. I will never feel like a stranger here, and I hope everyone gets to feel that for themselves.

Shany Biran

Originally published in The Insider, Volume 12, Issue 7, March 2005. (www.insidermediagroup.com)