Learning to Lead Through an Improv Mindset

Students in Northwestern Engineering's Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence (MSAI) program received an unorthodox lesson this school year: A lesson in improv.

The art of improvisation is not often associated with technical fields like artificial intelligence (AI), but as MSAI students discovered over the course of three workshops, its key components can be valuable differentiators.

"In order to be effective in improv, you have to redirect your attention outward," said Joseph Holtgreive, co-director of the Northwestern Personal Development StudioLab and one of the co-facilitators for the workshop. "It's engaging students in a very interactive practice. You can sit back and hear a lecture about the value of leadership and networking theory, but until you get up and engage and do it, you're not going to start to rewire your brain."

The workshops, which Holtgreive led with adjunct lecturer Byron Stewart, were focused on helping students learn to lead through an improv mindset. The sessions focused on helping students think about themselves as leaders, build community, and connect with others.

"Looking at things like listening intently, exercises around noticing what's around you, 'yes, anding,' which is huge in improv, building on ideas, failing and recovering, we did a number of exercises to practice those skills," Stewart said.

Anabella Isaro (MSAI '24), Maung Thu Ra (MSAI '24), and Hannah Simmons (MSAI '24) were three students who participated in the workshops. They shared their perspectives on the experience.  

What was your expectation for the improv workshops prior to getting started? 

Isaro: Before starting the improv workshops, I primarily anticipated gaining skills related to preparing elevator pitches and communicating with potential employers. However, I found that the workshops offered much more than that. The improv workshops provided a unique platform for personal and professional growth, offering insights and skills that extend far beyond what I initially anticipated. I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated in such enriching experiences and look forward to applying these lessons in all aspects of my life. 

Ra: Prior to MSAI, I had never attended a similar workshop before. From the workshop's description, I expected there were many physical activities and interactive work involved.   

Simmons: The first improv workshop was actually a surprise to me during our orientation day. When I found out, I was very nervous. I’ve had almost no experience with acting and the idea of having to do so with a roomful of strangers was intimidating.

What were the highlights of the workshops? 

Isaro: The opportunity to engage in interactive exercises with our classmates, which fostered better camaraderie and understanding among us. Additionally, learning the art of effective teamwork stood out as invaluable. I found it particularly beneficial to cultivate an environment of encouragement and support for each other's ideas. 

Ra: Interesting activities that helped me prepare to face the current job market. I also now understand more about my physical dynamics. 

Simmons: In the most recent workshop, we did an exercise in which we split into small groups to write a skit demonstrating the pros and cons of high/low status communication in confrontation. When we were brainstorming ideas, everyone was heard and made suggestions that were incorporated into our “performance.” We all also wanted to make the skit funny, and I had a blast telling jokes with my classmates. 

What was it about those highlights that stood out to you? 

Isaro: The concept of "Yes, AND" remains a standout highlight for me. Previously, I believed that providing accurate feedback was crucial when someone shared their ideas. However, incorporating "Yes, AND" after someone shares their ideas not only encourages them but also makes them more receptive to further contributions. This simple yet powerful technique has continued to influence my approach to collaboration. 

Ra: The workshops taught me to maintain positive attitudes as much as I can when interacting with others. I learned adaptability with my surroundings, and I was surprised to learn that some of my MSAI cohorts are talented in acting. 

Simmons: I only really interact with my classmates in a professional setting, either in class or while working on group projects. I liked working on the skit because it gave us an opportunity to lighten up, tell jokes, and be uncomfortable together without being self-conscious. My group mates and I got to know each other in a way that’s unavailable in a conventional classroom/project setting, and it’s made working together more fun. 

What were the most important lessons you learned during the workshops? 

Isaro: One of the most crucial lessons I learned was the significance of effective teamwork. Often, when working in teams, there can be a tendency to encounter communication barriers or misunderstandings. The workshops underscored the importance of being a supportive and collaborative team member, which I believe is fundamental to success in any project or endeavor. 

Ra: Positive attitudes and assertiveness. 

Simmons: The biggest lesson for me, one that I’m still working on, is how to present yourself as you want to be seen, not necessarily how you feel. When I feel anxious about approaching strangers, it is helpful to mentally reframe my stress as interest in learning about a new person. Conversely, if someone is intimidating because they have X skill that I want, I try to remind myself that I have Y skill and approach them as peers.

It is one thing to talk about how to interview and how to network, but practicing those skills in a judgment free space makes them real. Being able to communicate confidently and effectively is a crucial skill for any job and one that, in my opinion, is overlooked in favor of technical proficiency. But you won’t get hired if you can’t talk to the interviewer. You can’t collaborate with others if you are a pain to work with. You’ll be skipped on promotions if you can’t communicate your ideas with a non-technical audience.  

How will you apply those lessons to the rest of your time in MSAI and after you graduate? 

Isaro: The lessons gleaned from the workshops are undoubtedly transferable beyond the confines of the MSAI program. As I progress through my academic journey and beyond graduation, I intend to apply the principles of effective teamwork and supportive communication in various aspects of my professional and personal life. These skills will not only enhance my performance within the program but also serve as valuable assets in my future career endeavors. 

Ra: I will try to recall and practice the lessons whenever I have a chance. Those lessons are valuable for me. 

Simmons: I’ve already used the lessons from improv in interviews and networking events. They helped me improve my “elevator pitch,” which makes me more confident when approaching strangers and lets me connect with others easier. The instructors also spoke a lot about how to use “status” (as a mindset, not literal status) as a way to meet others where they are and influence the conversation. Once they broke that glass for me, I’ve noticed it everywhere and have found it very helpful when working with others in a professional setting.