Taking It In by Khailin

Taking It In by Khailin - August 2026 Scholarship Essay

When I first started my ECO classes at River Parish Community College, I thought I had everything under control. I was proud to be earning my high school diploma and associate degree at the same time, but I didn’t realize how much feedback would shape me along the way. One moment that stands out was during my CNA training. I was learning how to transfer a patient using a gait belt, and my instructor, Ms. Albert, stopped me mid‑task. She told me I was being too quick and needed to slow down, focus on safety, and communicate better with the patient. At first, I felt embarrassed, I thought I was doing fine. But that feedback changed how I saw learning itself.

After that day, I started paying closer attention to every detail. I realized feedback isn’t criticism; it’s a chance to grow. I began asking questions, practicing more carefully, and even helping classmates who struggled with the same skill. That experience taught me patience and reminded me that learning takes time. It also helped me become more confident, not just in CNA training, but in my college classes too. When teachers gave me notes on essays or math problems, I stopped taking it personally and started seeing it as guidance.

Learning from feedback has shaped how I approach everything now. I listen more, reflect before reacting, and try to improve instead of getting defensive. It’s helped me grow as a student and as a person. I’ve learned that progress doesn’t come from being perfect, it comes from being open to change. That mindset will stay with me as I move forward in college and in my career, reminding me that every piece of feedback is a step toward becoming the best version of myself.