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Stages of Development

Members develop leadership through three stages that each focus on one of three domains: Exploration, Collaboration, and Innovation. Stages are developmental phases that reflect where a member is in their leadership journey and help you figure out what activities will be most helpful to you. The framework is informed by constructive-developmental research on self-authorship and emerging adulthood, resulting in a model that intentionally moves members from guided participation toward leadership.

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S1: Exploration
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Exploration is about getting to know yourself—your strengths, values, and the habits that help you feel like an adult. It’s learning how to manage your time, energy, and choices so you can move through school and life with confidence. Exploration gives you clarity about who you are and what you want, and helps you trust your own judgment whether you’re choosing classes for next semester, or deciding if you’re ready to move across the world for that dream job.

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Exploration is where leadership begins. It’s the domain of self-awareness, personal habits, emotional regulation, and the internal foundations of adulthood. â€‹â€‹Before leading others, you learn to lead yourself.

S2: Collaboration
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Collaboration is about relationships, communication, and building a sense of belonging. It’s learning how to work on teams, give and receive feedback, navigate conflict, respect differences, and show up for your communities whether that’s in class, at work, at home, with friends, or online.

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In professional settings, technical skill is rarely enough. Employers consistently look for people who can communicate clearly, navigate disagreement, support teammates, and stay steady under pressure. Collaboration is where those habits are built.

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S3: Innovation
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Innovation is about taking initiative and turning ideas into action. It’s learning how to identify needs, solve problems, advocate for yourself and others, and follow a project from concept to completion. Innovation helps you recognize where you can make a difference; on campus, in your community, or in your industry, and gives you the confidence to create meaningful change.

 

That change doesn’t have to be about justice or activism, though it often can be. It also means having the skills to make something happen simply because it matters to you, whether that’s earning a promotion or getting your tournament recognized as a major.

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Moving Through the Stages

The skills, mindset, and leadership practices you develop in each stage lay the foundation for the next. Everyone’s journey is different, and you will move through the stages at your own pace. Some people move quickly; others take more time. Your Crew Guides will help you understand when you’re ready for the next stage, and they will never recommend you advance before you have the tools, confidence, and habits you need to succeed there.

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Most members spend 1–3 years in each stage. This gives you time to build mastery, try different quests, work with your crew, and discover your own strengths and interests.

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