Reflecting on Communication: Lessons from my First Day

Self-reflection can be challenge. When I reflect on what I have done, I must also consider what I could have done differently to help things go more smoothly. Ironically, my first day of communications class was one such incident. At the end of class we were given a guide to help us understand the expectations for APA style. The instructions, however, varied slightly from instructions received in other courses in that it called for a different font to be used. While some students were confused by it, it seemed that others were more bothered. The teacher was quickly bombarded with several questions. I recognized that the font listed is the same that I found through the ADA (American’s with Disability Act) website over the summer while doing

Having read the syllabus for each course and starting one of the APA tutorials, I was already aware that I have a deficit of knowledge and experience with the topic. I was quite nervous at seeing it spelled out so formally but was relieved that I recognized the context that matched the new information we were learning. Socially, I felt awkward being in a situation where some students were pushing back at the information which to me sounded a bit argumentative. I can be outspoken and I know I unintentionally come off as aggressive at times because I get very passionate about learning. I have the desire for the group to work cohesively and support each other through a difficult program. My classmates may someday be the nurses caring for my family and I want them to have competency equal to what I expect for myself. Professionally, I’m the student speaking to faculty so there is a certain formality in communications until everyone is established and known within the course. I want to portray professionalism but I also want to be seen as friendly and

The room started out crowded and noisy and everyone seemed anxious to leave so I could have anticipated my impact would be different than my intent. I have coached the use of self-talk to ask, “Is this something that is relevant right now or did I just get an idea in my head and am now stuck thinking about it”? In my haste I did not do the very thing that I have encouraged others to do. An unexpected risk factor was someone else entering the conversation. Ultimately, this was the factor that altered my perception of the exchange. The person was known to one of us but not to the other so it was a distraction. It was however a chance for me to step back and reflect, “Do I really want to continue or would I rather let people share a friendly hello?” Observing smiles and seeing someone being able to relax in the environment was refreshing so at that point my goal changed. Rather than nervously defend a point it seemed more appropriate to let it be. The tension from earlier was now