"Back to My Communication" by Leiko

“Communication is not only the essence of being human, but also a vital property of life.” This was written by John A. Piece. Communication is essential to living in this society. In our life, our first tool is communication. Whenever you make a speech, sales promotion, or make friends, it plays an important role in a person’s success. Human spirit is relative to communication. People express their ideas through it. Actually, when I lived in my country, China, there was no doubt that I didn’t worry about it. However, when I left my place and came to the US, everything was changed. Losing communication is equal to losing confidence, a connection with people, and working conditions.

Self-confidence has always been the way to present myself. When I was in China, confidence gave me power to do things. When I came to the US, it was gone with my transition. When I went to school in China, teachers would teach us how to build up self-confidence at first. It was very obvious. A lack of confidence makes it difficult to become successful. Last semester, I begun studying at Harold Washington College, and I visited a tutor every week. At first, a tutor would give me some suggestions through communication. She said that communication was a good way to know more about a student’s needs. During the communication, she mentioned that I had a lack of confidence. My voice was very week and low. Sometimes, she was unaware of what I said because I was talking in a low voice which was hard to hear. Attitude decides people’s lives; however, confidence also decides people’s lives.

A connection with people is likes a bridge between two cities. When I used my English to communicate the first time, I didn't know what I was going to say. The feeling was like the person who I was talking to; however, we were not the same. I was afraid that they wouldn't understand me. In China, I was an outgoing person and liked different kinds of social activities. Nevertheless, now I always keep silent and put my head down because I cannot use my own language when I can’t explain what I want. I have felt disappointed with this situation. That’s why I decided to take speech class. In the speech class, the teacher put emphasis on people’s motivation. In fact, even thought I am not good at using English during conversation, I can also use behavior, body language, and eye contact. Those skills can make me know how my audience understands me. At the same time, I need to control my nerves. This is a way to get close with my audience. Therefore, when I came to the US, connection was becoming the important role in my lives.

Finally, communication is the first condition to get a good job. Communication is also essential to have good working conditions. Everyone wants to find a better job, but bosses will not hire people who lack communication skills. At the same time, bosses will compare me to other employees, so I have to improve myself to get respect. Even though I quit my job already, I still remember when I just came to the US. I had no choice but to find a low paying and difficult job in which I had to work from Monday to Sunday except school hours. I still remembered clear when I was in secondary school, I did not aspire to get a good job. I just thought do the job without English because I knew that there was Chinatown in the US. I could sell things to Chinese or to be a waitress which serves Chinese. Those jobs didn't need any English skills. Now I think that was such a stupid idea. I realize that a good working condition is a way to get a successful life.

When a person immigrates to a new place, there is no doubt that she/he will lose a lot. I was no exception. Communication is an indispensable thing in our life. Therefore, I hope that one day my communication skills will match what they were in China. It is my tool to take back my confidence, form connection to my friends, and also a part of my life.