Whether we like it or not, we are constantly being criticized. People can comment on what others are wearing, what they are doing or what they did for a class project.
In a learning environment such as this, most professors encourage their students to do their best work and grow with each lesson and task. Every time a student is given back the grading rubric for an assignment, the professor’s criticism is laid out, ready to be learned from.
Constructive criticism exists because people want to see others succeed. It may not always be easy to hear if a student spends countless hours and pours their heart into a project only to be told, “It would be better if…” What matters is how the receiver responds to the comments.
How we see it is a student has two options. They could take it to heart, get overly emotional and hold a grudge against the professor claiming they are out to get them. Or a student can take the information, analyze it, apply those thoughts in later assignments and remind themselves that the professor is only trying to help.
In staff writer Shania Savastio’s story, “Criticism meant to help, not harm,” she admits that she is learning the latter.
“Constructive criticism is never meant to hurt us. It is supposed to make us stronger and become better. It’s a reality check that spurs us to success,” she said.
Savastio said criticism is a vital key in our growth as individuals. She also said people are failing themselves and their future if they reject constructive criticism.
As journalists, our work is constantly being critiqued. There are always edits to be made or better ways to convey a thought. Most of us first began our journey in the department not knowing any of the basic principles of journalistic writing. We had to develop a thick skin. We learned quickly that there would be a light at the end of the tunnel and we would make it through.
Learning from those comments and responses is necessary for success. The sooner students apply this mindset, the sooner they will see improvements in their work and their attitude toward learning.
Don’t waste professors’ breath. Take it, and run with it. You will end up ahead.
