Learning to Listen by Madeline

Learning to Listen by Madeline - April 2026 Scholarship Essay

For a long time, I thought listening was simple. It meant staying quiet while someone else spoke and waiting for my turn to respond. But over time, I have realized that truly listening is much more than that. It is about understanding people, recognizing what they are feeling, and making them feel heard. In the next few years, I hope to master the skill of listening in a way that allows others to feel seen, understood, and supported.
Sometimes being around people can still feel really lonely, and I have experienced that firsthand. Growing up as one of the few Jewish students in my community, I often felt isolated and wished there were more ways to connect with others who shared my background. When people said insensitive comments or drew swastikas on desks, it was hard to focus in class or feel a sense of belonging. Those moments showed me what it feels like to go unheard, and they shaped my desire to make sure others do not feel the same way.
In high school, I became Vice President of Student Engagement in the Peer Leaders Uniting Students (PLUS) program. I helped create conversations where students could talk about stress, mental health, or feeling left out. At first, I thought my role was to offer advice or solve problems. However, I quickly learned that what people needed most was someone who would truly listen. When I focused on being present, asking thoughtful questions, and acknowledging their experiences, students became more open and honest. I saw how powerful it can be when someone feels heard, and it changed the way I approached every conversation.
I continued developing this skill while working with younger students in an elementary school choir program. Many of them were shy or unsure of their abilities, especially when asked to sing in front of others. Instead of pushing them to perform, I took the time to understand their fears and build trust. By listening to their concerns and encouraging them at their own pace, I watched their confidence grow. One student who was initially too afraid to sing eventually performed a solo. That moment was not just about music, but about what can happen when someone feels supported and understood.
As I continue my education at the University of California, San Diego, I plan to further develop this skill through studying psychology and gaining hands on experience. I want to learn how to better understand people’s thoughts and emotions so I can support them during difficult moments. Whether through mentoring, counseling, or advocacy, I hope to create spaces where individuals feel safe sharing their experiences.
Mastering the skill of listening is not something that happens overnight. It requires patience, empathy, and a willingness to truly understand others. However, I believe it is one of the most important skills I can develop. By continuing to grow in this area, I hope to make a lasting impact, helping others feel less alone and more connected to the world around them.