speech and interview

INTERVIEW:

So tell me a bit about yourself…

SPEECH:

FAIL, First Attempt In Learning. All of you have heard this before, maybe as a term you learn in school, or as something someone has told you as a form of motivation. I know some of you must wonder, how is failing the first step towards success? That was my thought the first time I failed a test in second grade and my teacher told me that mistakes made us stronger.

I remember making silly mistakes on things I already knew like saying that there were 40 states in the USA or that five times seven was forty-nine. My teacher noticed and when she asked me about it, I reiterated that I was only following her ideology.

She laughed and told me that the idea that mistakes made one stronger wasn't just a silly idea that applied to silly mistakes, but a powerful truth that helps us grow and learn.  In fact, it is through our failures that we gain valuable lessons, foster resilience, and develop the confidence to take on new challenges.

Perseverance isn’t just about pushing through challenges. It’s about the unwavering belief in oneself, the relentless pursuit of goals, and the resilience to bounce back from setbacks. It’s the spark that ignites our passion and fuels our determination.

In a more recent example, during a speech competition in freshman year, I encountered this truth firsthand when I stumbled over my words and forgot parts of my speech. I remember my face warming up with embarrassment and a lump in my throat starting to form. But instead of giving up, I took a deep breath, regained my composure, and pushed through, making up points as I went along.

I didn’t win that day, but continued to use the same impromptu skills I had used, applying them in future competitions and everyday conversations as they managed to save my hide previously.

I started to notice that when I forgot what I was saying at a certain point, I managed to pick up where I left off without missing a beat. It wasn’t fully impromptu, but I had somewhat developed the ability to think on my feet and adapting to the situation.

I realized that each misstep was an opportunity to learn how to better handle pressure and public speaking, and while I am still working on those skills even today, by continuing to improve myself, i’ve come a long way from that easily intimidated girl.

The indomitable spirit of human perseverance. It’s the quiet determination that fuels our dreams, the relentless drive that pushes us beyond our limits.

We've all faced challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But it's how we respond to these obstacles that truly defines us.

Do we give up, or do we dig deeper? Do we let fear paralyze us, or do we embrace it as a catalyst for growth?

The greatest minds, the most accomplished individuals, weren't born perfect. They stumbled, they failed, but they refused to quit.

They learned from their mistakes, adapted to new challenges, and emerged stronger than ever. In our journeys, we'll encounter countless hurdles. My experiences have taught me life lessons that go beyond just a simple competition or test.

my experience in speech wasn’t just public speaking related, but also a journey of growth and personal development that equipped me with the confidence to face any audience and convey my message effectively.

Difficult obstacles and setbacks will test our resolve. But remember, every challenge is an opportunity to learn, to grow, and to become more resilient.

Let's embrace the power of perseverance, the joy of lifelong learning, and the courage to dream big. Let's inspire ourselves and others to reach for the stars, no matter how daunting the climb may seem.

Thank you.