CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- Hannah Shapiro is a busy University of Virginia fourth-year student. From being involved in her sorority to being a battalion commander in ROTC, she exemplifies the qualities of what it means to be a good leader.

“I think UVA’s just given me the opportunity to grow as a leader, through all of the different organizations there are on Grounds, through ROTC and honor, there’s so many opportunities to be involved in self-governance,” she said.

Before starting at UVA, Shapiro went through the unimaginable tragedy of losing her brother to suicide. 

Instead of taking that tragedy as an excuse to underperform, she used it as fuel to inspire those around her. 

“He didn’t want to end my life with his life. He was proud of me and wanted to see me succeed. He wouldn’t want me to use his death as a reason to not be successful,” added Shapiro. 

She has used that motivation to excel in everything she has done during her time at UVA.

From leading a group of 55 cadets to being an elected representative for the College of Arts and Sciences on the Honor Committee, she has become a leader in everything she has been a part of.

Shapiro said future students at UVA are able to thrive and become the leader they have always admired.

“Just knowing who you are, and having honor and integrity and standing by your values, I think that always stands the test of time,” she said.

In the fall, Shapiro will be attending UVA Law School to become a military lawyer and be a voice and leader in making an influence on people’s lives during difficult moments.