Finding Confidence and Community in LEAD

When Kalina Zagyva ’29 arrived at Linfield from Hillsboro, she wanted a college where she could grow — personally, academically and as a future leader. She found exactly that in the LEAD Honors Program, a cohort-based experience designed to challenge and support high-potential students.

From the start, Kalina was drawn to Linfield’s small size, supportive environment and emphasis on meaningful connections. She wanted a place where she could explore her interests, develop leadership skills and find peers who shared her drive and curiosity. The LEAD Honors Program offered all of that — and a framework for making the most of her college experience.

Coming to Linfield

Linfield’s small size and student-focused environment immediately appealed to Kalina. “I decided to attend Linfield because of the tight-knit community, campus environment and the LEAD Honors Program,” Kalina remarked.

Once on campus, she quickly found that the reality matched her expectations.

“Linfield has absolutely lived up to its community reputation. I have become integrated into several communities among campus life and seem to recognize the student body everywhere I go,” Kalina said.

Kalina, a psychology major with a minor in fine arts, hopes to weave both areas into her academic journey. Her interest in the LEAD Honors Program, which began even before she enrolled, offered a clear path to do just that.

“After learning what the program stood for, I wanted to get involved so I could be surrounded by a group of likeminded people who plan to make the most out of their college experience,” she said.

Becoming a LEAD Scholar

For Kalina, the cohort model was a major draw.

“Originally, I found LEAD appealing because of the cohort model that is implemented,” she said. “I felt that this group would serve as a safe space for me to develop my leadership capabilities.”

To her, the program offers both structure and support.

“The LEAD Honors Program is built on a cohort model, meaning teamwork and collaboration are essential,” Kalina explained. “It's a program that encourages involvement, leadership and promotes individual differences. It provides exposure to new opportunities, allowing students to take advantage of everything Linfield has to offer.”

She hopes to continue building her skills along the way.

“I hope to further develop soft skills such as communication, leadership and delegation,” she said. “I want to be a part of a community that benefits others.”

Kalina also appreciates the healthy challenge the program creates.

"I feel positive pressure by being a part of this program,” she said. “The expectations that have been set motivate and challenge me to do my best and expand my comfort zone.”

LEAD involvement — and looking ahead

As a LEAD Scholar, Kalina stays active and engaged with her cohort.“So far, my cohort has collaborated and academically improved in our INQS class,” she said. "We've also planned several events and activities together outside of class, including a night hike at the coast and a dinner at our professor's house.”

These experiences have shaped her first year in meaningful ways.

“Spending more time together — both in the classroom and on our own time — has strengthened our academic and social collaboration,” she said.

She has already stepped into a leadership role.

“I've become a LEAD ambassador and will be filming promotional videos for future LEAD Scholars,” Kalina began. “This opportunity allows me to lead my peers from multiple LEAD cohorts and to help better the program as a whole.”

Kalina also has a clear vision for her future.

“I plan to complete my master's degree in psychology and then go into a career as an Art Therapist,” Kalina explained.

A final word of advice

For students considering the LEAD Honors Program, Kalina offers simple encouragement.

“I would absolutely recommend the LEAD Honors Program because of the opportunity it promises,” she said. “Joining a cohort is like a smooth transition into college with like-minded people. The program encourages you to be the change that you want to see in the world.”

Through the LEAD Honors Program — and a strong sense of purpose — Kalina has found what every college student hopes for: confidence, community and a sense of belonging.