Learning to Lead

Mikail Patankar ’21 has a lot keeping him busy at MBS, but he wants to continue honing the skills that help him have a positive impact, not only on his own journey, but also on the paths of others. 

In his third year as class president, his focus is on community outreach through the Student Government Association (SGA). For some, it might be enough to hold student government leadership positions, perform in the school musicals, play trumpet and piano in the jazz band, and participate on the football, swimming and baseball teams; for Mic, however, it’s important to know that the work he does will benefit the entire Morristown-Beard community.

At MBS, Mikail’s passion for leadership has been nurtured and given room to grow. Starting with his class, Mikail has turned his talents for organizing and refining events to Homecoming, semi-formal dances, dodge ball and handball tournaments, and class trips. He has dedicated himself to creating an atmosphere among his peers where students support each other, feel close to one another, and lift each other up so they can work together to do the same for others.

The Morristown Beard faculty has strengthened Mikail’s leadership of his own academic journey. “Everyone here has a passion and everyone has the opportunity to explore their passion with the support of their teachers,” he says. “The teachers really do care."

In addition, Mikail looks forward to how the new Center for Innovation & Design also will enhance this aspect of the School. The Center will provide exceptional resources – in terms of both high-tech equipment and newly-hired faculty – for students to explore and pursue their specific interests across numerous academic disciplines. Like many of his peers, Mikail is excited about discovering exactly what he will become truly passionate about – and confident that his time at MBS will inspire him to take that next step in his academic journey.