The Value of Feedback by mia

The Value of Feedback by mia - August 2026 Scholarship Essay

One of the most important lessons I learned about growth came from receiving feedback as a Division I soccer player. In college, feedback was constant. Coaches evaluated practices, games, conditioning, positioning, decision-making, and even small details that I did not always notice myself. At first, it could be difficult to hear criticism after putting significant effort into something. Over time, however, I learned that feedback was not a judgment of my abilities. It was an opportunity to become better.
I began to change the way I responded to feedback. Instead of focusing on what I had done wrong, I started asking myself what I could do differently the next time. I learned to listen carefully, ask questions, and turn specific criticism into an actionable goal. This mindset helped me become a more disciplined athlete, but its impact extended far beyond soccer.
I carried the same approach into my education and clinical experiences in speech-language pathology. During my undergraduate clinical practicum, I received feedback on my therapy techniques, communication, documentation, and interactions with clients. Rather than trying to perform perfectly, I learned to view each correction as part of the learning process. Some of the most valuable improvements I made came from being willing to recognize what I did not yet know.
Now, as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant working with elementary-aged students, I continue to rely on that mindset. Working under the supervision of licensed speech-language pathologists means receiving guidance and adjusting my approach based on what is most effective for each student. Every child has different communication needs, and feedback helps me remain flexible rather than assuming that one approach will work for everyone.
Learning to accept feedback has ultimately changed how I approach both learning and personal growth. I no longer see being corrected as evidence that I have failed. Instead, I see it as evidence that I have something new to learn. Whether I am pursuing my graduate education, developing as a clinician, or facing a personal challenge, I try to remain curious, receptive, and willing to improve. Feedback has taught me that growth does not come from already knowing everything, it comes from being willing to listen, adapt, and keep moving forward.