Gallup’s StrengthsQuest is a self-assessment measuring an individual’s unique talents and categorizes within 34 themes. I have had the pleasure of taking this assessment several times and have really connected to its use in how I support the teams and groups I lead and serve within.
A very important note to mention about StrengthsQuest is that simply knowing one’s strengths is only the first step. It is important to also understand how each talent works with all of the rest and how the “shadow” of each talent shows up.
Context
I look to the past to make sense of the present. When situations feel chaotic or unclear, I ground myself—and my team—by exploring where we’ve been: the decisions, values, and intentions that brought us to this point. I find clarity and confidence by understanding the historical context behind policies, practices, and cultural norms. This allows me to lead with purpose and perspective. In student affairs, this strength helps me guide teams through change, connect current challenges to long-term goals, and ensure that the decisions we make today are rooted in a clear understanding of our foundation and mission.
Learner
I thrive on learning. While the topics I dive into may shift depending on what I’m working on, it’s the process of learning itself that fuels me. I’m energized by the journey—those first sparks of understanding, the challenge of developing new skills, and the confidence that comes with growing competence. It’s not just about becoming an expert or earning credentials; it’s about the experience of discovery and progress. As a leader in student affairs, this mindset drives me to stay curious, adapt quickly, and model a growth-oriented approach. It helps me support my team in navigating change, embracing innovation, and continuously improving the way we serve students.
Input
I’m naturally curious, and I love to gather information, ideas, and experiences simply because I find them fascinating. Whether I’m reading, traveling, or having conversations, I’m always collecting—resources, insights, tools, and stories. I don’t always know when or how something will come in handy, but I trust that it will. My mind is like a library, and I’m constantly adding to it. In student affairs, this helps me lead with a broad perspective. I draw on a wide range of knowledge to solve problems, connect ideas across departments, and offer thoughtful guidance to students and staff. My ability to recall and apply what I’ve gathered helps teams make informed decisions and stay open to new possibilities.
Intellection
I enjoy thinking deeply. Whether I’m solving a complex problem, exploring an idea, or reflecting on a conversation, I’m energized by the process of mental exploration. I value quiet time to think things through—it helps me make sense of the world, consider different perspectives, and arrive at thoughtful conclusions. My mind is always active, often turning things over long after a meeting or moment has passed. As a student affairs leader, this strength allows me to be reflective, intentional, and strategic. I don’t rush to react; I pause to consider, to analyze, and to understand. This helps me guide my team with depth, clarity, and empathy, especially in moments that require careful judgment or a thoughtful response.
Analytical
I’m driven to understand how things work, and I don’t take ideas at face value. I ask questions—not to tear down, but to get to the core of what’s real and what holds up under scrutiny. I rely on data and evidence because they help me cut through assumptions and focus on what’s actually happening. Patterns, connections, outcomes—these are what I look for. I want to know if our strategies are effective and if the results match the intentions.
As a student affairs leader, this strength helps me make well-informed decisions, design data-driven programs, and evaluate outcomes with clarity. It allows me to bring a level of objectivity that supports transparency and accountability—ensuring our work truly benefits the students we serve.
Paul York, Ph.D. 