Connecting, Collaborating, and Cultivating Leadership as a Student

Graduating senior Nasser Tahat reflects on his leadership journey at The Ohio State University with interviewer Jen Knox Shanahan, highlighting his involvement in the Dean’s Leadership Academy, his passion for finance, and the key leadership lessons he has learned. He shares insights on the importance of vulnerability in leadership, building strong relationships, and embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth. 

Jen Knox Shanahan (JKS): Nasser, Congratulations on your upcoming graduation. You’ve been an active member of the Dean’s Leadership Academy Ambassador Program and a dedicated leadership studies student. Please share with us a little about your journey at Ohio State and other roles you hold. 

Nasser Tahat (NT): My time here at The Ohio State University has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I am so blessed and thankful to be a part of such a great university. I am a senior majoring in Finance and Real Estate, and beyond my studies, I have been actively involved in the Dean’s Leadership Academy (DLA), where I serve as the student liaison on the ambassador board. In this role, I work closely with alumni to enhance the program’s network and visibility to help connect students with valuable leadership opportunities. Additionally, I have participated in various finance related organizations, gaining exposure to wealth management, investment strategies, and financial planning.  

JKS: How did you find your way to leadership studies via the Dean’s Leadership Academy Program? 

NT: I first learned about the DLA after I had made the switch over from Computer Science Engineering. What drew me in was the program’s emphasis on developing practical leadership skills and its strong core of student leaders. Once I joined and took the Personal Leadership and Team Effectiveness course; I knew right away that this was for me. Our class was a culmination of meaningful discussions, intricate case studies, and knowledgeable guest speakers which helped shape my perspective on leadership.  

JKS: Tell us a little about your favorite leadership lessons or takeaways from the classroom. 

NT: It would be hard to choose a single favorite; however, one of the most valuable lessons I have learned is that leadership is about vulnerability, not authority. Effective leaders can create an environment where others feel empowered to contribute, innovate, and give their opinions. Having this safe space where others can think freely and be confident in their work is what promotes the best outcomes and allows leaders to be successful. This is also backed by the importance of emotional intelligence and understanding how to listen and connect with others beyond the surface level. 

JKS: You have had many leadership positions outside of the classroom. What is one piece of advice you have for young leaders? 

NT: Never underestimate the power of relationships, and specifically those whom you encounter that have been in the industry since we were children. Surrounding yourself with the right people, learning from them, and absorbing habits like a sponge is the best way to learn and grow as a young leader. Also, never be afraid of adversity. Change happens all the time, so get good at making the uncomfortable, comfortable. This attitude will help young leaders not only grow, but mature and become successful as well. 

I’d like to add to the importance of embracing discomfort. Some of my most significant growth moments came from stepping into roles or situations where I felt unprepared. They have also come from major setbacks that I did not originally think I could rebound from. The key to overcoming this discomfort is to take action. The more you challenge yourself, and push your limits, the more you realize you are capable of. Sometimes the only thing in the way of reaching big goals is ourselves.

Nasser Tahat is a current Fisher of College Business student majoring in Finance and Real Estate. Currently, Nasser is managing his company Tahat Renovations LLC, and he will be pursuing a career in wealth management post-graduation. 

To learn more about the Dean’s Leadership Academy, contact Jen Shanahan at shanahan.67@osu.edu.