A Gift of Criticism by Anthony

A Gift of Criticism by Anthony - July 2016 Scholarship Essay

Going into my junior year of high school, I had learned that I would have a new English teacher. Though unlike most, I had the opportunity to meet the new instructor before the year had started, giving me an idea of what the class' content would consist of. I was told to expect a large amount to revolve around writing, which I had no problem with. Throughout my academic career I had always been told I was a great writer; that my essays stood out from other students. From this I became confident in my writing and felt that the new teacher would bring me no challenge at all.
Fortunately I was humbled, as my first essay of the year was a failing grade. Meanwhile other's had done well to excellent in their own work. To my relief, my teacher informed the class that if we were not satisfied with our grade, we could edit it and bring the grade to a 70 percent. Confused and frustrated I went to speak with her in regard to what I could do. I was told to come in during my lunch hour and she would show me what I had done wrong. I was grateful as if for nothing else I would at least learn what my mistakes were.
When the time had come to meet for my grade, I prepared myself with a mentality of humility and wanted to have a coachable approach. During the session, she sat beside me and went through my essay with a pen and highlighted my mistakes. Though there were corrections I did not agree with, I chose not to argue but instead try to understand why it was wrong. I could tell that she had expected me to argue with her and challenge her corrections, as on usual occasions I may have. I still feel that she knew this the entire time, though she used it as a time to give me a principle.
Near the end of our time, she looked at me and said that my acceptance of criticism had impressed her, so much so, she decided to give me a chance to get a higher grade than originally possible. She told me that having an appreciation and open mind to criticism is a strength that takes some a lifetime to understand. That being able to take it gratefully will not only sharpen your skills but also encourage others to help you as it is a more enjoyable experience.
To this day I hold it true that I will always have something more to learn, something to make myself better, and that there are people who want to help as long as they are let in. Although it is hard to understand in the moment, sometimes it is better to fail and learn than it is to be only make it by an instance of luck.