what shaped my approach to learning. by chantel

what shaped my approach to learning. by chantel - August 2026 Scholarship Essay

There was a time in my journey in higher education when I learned that receiving feedback was not a sign that I was failing; it was an opportunity to become better. At first, constructive criticism was difficult for me to accept. I would sometimes focus more on what I had done wrong than on what I could learn from the experience. However, one particular experience changed the way I view feedback and taught me an important lesson about personal growth.

During obtaining my pre-requites, I received feedback that I needed to slow down, pay closer attention to details, and trust the knowledge I was developing. I was eager to do well and prove that I was capable of becoming a professional nurse after finishing my general education. Because of that, I sometimes placed too much pressure on myself to have all the answers immediately. My instructor reminded me that nursing is not about knowing everything at once. It is about being willing to learn, ask questions, listen, and continuously improve.

Although the feedback was difficult to hear at first, I decided not to take it personally. Instead, I asked myself what I could do differently. I began taking more time to review information, understand why certain interventions were necessary, and learn from my mistakes rather than becoming discouraged by them. I also became more comfortable asking questions when I did not understand something. That experience helped me realize that asking for clarification is not a weakness. It is a responsible part of becoming a safe and knowledgeable nurse in the future.

The experience also changed how I respond to feedback in other areas of my life. Instead of immediately becoming defensive or disappointed, I now try to listen carefully and look for the lesson within the criticism. I have learned that constructive feedback can reveal areas for improvement that I may not recognize on my own. It has taught me to be more patient with myself and to understand that growth takes time, effort, and consistency.

My desire to become a nurse has always been connected to compassion and helping others. Watching my mother care for individuals with special needs when I was younger helped shape the kind of person I want to become. However, compassion alone is not enough. A good nurse must also be willing to learn, accept correction, think critically, and continually improve.

Learning from feedback has helped me become more confident, humble, and determined. I no longer see constructive criticism as a judgment of my abilities. I see it as guidance that can help me reach my goals. As I continue my nursing journey, I will carry this lesson with me: every mistake can become a lesson, every correction can become an opportunity, and every piece of feedback can help me become the nurse—and the person—I am striving to be.