A Dream That Became an Adventure
“Since I was 12 years old, I’ve always wanted to study in Europe!”
For Zoe Zufelt, that dream became real at Cumorah Academy. What started as a simple wish turned into a life-changing journey. New people, new ideas, and new challenges shaped her in ways she did not expect.
Like many young adults, Zoe wanted more than classes. She wanted growth. She wanted purpose. And most of all, she wanted connection.
That is where building friendships as a leader became one of the most important lessons of her experience.
Seeing the World Through New Eyes
Every person is unique.
Nobody sees the world the way you do. And you do not see it the way others do.
Zoe learned this as she met people from different countries and cultures. Each person brought a new perspective. Each story opened her mind a little more.
This is the heart of building friendships as a leader. When you understand that people think and live differently, you become more open and more curious.
Instead of judging, you listen.
Instead of staying comfortable, you grow.
Why Friendships Matter in Leadership
Strong leaders know how to connect with people.
You do not need to be extroverted to do this. Even quiet people can succeed at building friendships as a leader. It is not about being loud. It is about being real and present.
Zoe discovered that friendships are not just nice to have. They are essential.
Studies show that friendships can:
- Increase your sense of belonging
- Boost happiness and reduce stress
- Improve confidence and self-worth
- Help you through difficult times
- Encourage positive habits
These benefits shape the way you lead. When people feel valued, they trust you. And trust is the foundation of leadership.
From Student to Creator
Zoe did not just learn. She took action.
After graduating from high school and starting her Business Management studies at BYU, she came to Cumorah Academy ready to grow.
“My life has been transformed!” she said.
Her leadership and business classes gave her tools she could use right away. But more importantly, they helped her see her own potential.
She learned that everyone has a personal journey. This belief strengthened her approach to building friendships as a leader.
It also inspired her business idea.
Zoe started creating children’s books that teach kids about a wealthy mindset. Her goal is to inspire the next generation to think bigger and live with purpose.
An Experience That Changes You
“It feels like an adventure!”
That was Zoe’s first impression of Cumorah Academy.
And she was right.
From the moment she arrived from the United States, she was excited to meet new people. Each friendship added something meaningful to her life.
The conversations with others gave her new ideas.
Each experience helped her grow.
This is the power of building friendships as a leader. It turns simple moments into meaningful progress.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
Zoe’s journey does not end here.
After returning home, she plans to serve as an FSY consultant. She will also continue building her business and developing her ideas.
But the biggest change is how she sees people.
She understands the value of connection. She knows that leadership is not about being above others. It is about growing with them.
That is what building friendships as a leader truly means.
Your Turn to Grow
Zoe’s story shows what is possible when you step into a new environment.
You can choose growth.
You can choose a connection.
And you can start building friendships as a leader today.
Start Your Own Adventure
Cumorah Academy is more than a school. It is a place where you discover who you are and who you can become.
Here, you build friendships that last, turn ideas into real projects, and grow into the leader you are meant to be.
Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone?
Do you want to meet people from around the world?
Do you want to grow in ways you never expected?
This is your moment.
Apply now to Cumorah Academy and begin your journey of building friendships as a leader.
We are ready to welcome you.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
