Choir Feedback by Kayla

Choir Feedback by Kayla - August 2026 Scholarship Essay

One experience that taught me the importance of feedback happened during my time in choir. As a choir member and later as a section leader and president, I was often expected to help others while also improving my own performance. At first, receiving criticism was not always easy for me. I sometimes viewed feedback as pointing out what I had done wrong instead of seeing it as an opportunity to become better. Over time, I learned that constructive feedback is not meant to discourage me; it is meant to help me grow. I remember receiving feedback about the way I communicated with other choir members. I was considered as the mean and loud president. As a leader, I wanted everyone to feel encouraged and supported, but I learned that having good intentions was not always enough. I needed to communicate clearly, listen to others, and understand that different people respond to encouragement in different ways. Instead of becoming defensive, I began to listen carefully and think about how I could apply the feedback to my actions. So I decided to calm down and be more nicer and stop being so loud with others. That experience changed the way I approach learning. Feedback has shaped me as a leader. I now understand that being a strong leader means being willing to learn from the people around me. I cannot expect others to accept guidance if I am unwilling to accept it myself. This lesson has helped me become more patient, open-minded, and willing to consider perspectives that may be different from my own. Most importantly, learning to accept feedback has taught me that personal growth requires humility. I do not have to know everything, and I do not have to be perfect. I simply need to be willing to learn and improve. As I continue my education and work toward becoming a Physical Therapist, I know that feedback will remain an important part of my growth. Healthcare requires constant learning, teamwork, and the ability to listen to others. The lesson I learned through choir will continue to remind me that every piece of feedback is an opportunity to become a better student, leader, professional, and person.