Communication: The Ultimate Lifeline by Prisha

Communication: The Ultimate Lifeline by Prisha - January 2022 Scholarship Essay

In the game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire", there are lifelines that contestants can use when they’re unsure of an answer, like “Phone a Friend” or “Ask the Audience''. These lifelines are in place as a means for the contestant to ask others for help. The logic behind the lifelines are simple: if the contestant doesn’t know what to do, it’s possible that someone else will.
Well, I have a bit of a secret to share. If our lives were to be our own personal game shows, we would already have built-in lifelines, and the access code would be communication. If you’re lost in a new environment, there is likely someone who can point out directions. If you’re confused reading in a foreign language, there is likely someone who can translate. If you don't understand a task that's been assigned to you, there is likely a peer who can explain it to you.
This isn’t to say that you should can rely on others for every single need in your life; no game show has unlimited lifelines. However, you don't need to walk through life alone. Communication exists as a bridge to connect with others and bridge the gaps in one’s knowledge.
In 2021, I faced a lot of things for the first time. I faced my the end of junior year and the beginning of senior year. I faced my first in-person AP exams. I faced my first (and last) college applications. There were so many things I had to accomplish in 2021, and I don't think I would have faced any success if it wasn't for the communication and collaboration skills I utilized. Being able to connect with my peers and study together was essential for my success academically. Being able to communicate my feeling and thoughts with my friends and family was pivotal in maintaining a strong mental health despite the unprecedented circumstances surrounding my junior and senior year.
However, I didn't start 2021 as a communication guru. It was actually on the contrary: 2020 took any social skills I had and threw them in the trash. It was only with the re-introduction of in-person classes and normalcy did I realize I'd have to relearn how to communicate and connect with people. It was definitely difficult, and I faced my fair share of failure, however, it was an important learning experience for me, and I'm glad I had the tools necessary to grab those lifelines when I needed them.