RHEA SMITH BEED 1-B

The BenchYell activity was designed to encourage open communication and

understanding among classmates. It involved sitting on a bench in pairs, facing
each other, and having a deep conversation about a pre-assigned topic. The
objective was to create a safe space for sharing personal thoughts, emotions, and
experiences without any interruptions or judgments. This activity aimed to foster
empathy, trust, and emotional intelligence among the participants.

During the activity, I was paired with a classmate, and we discussed the
topic of career aspirations and challenges we faced in our academic journey. As
we began our conversation, I noticed a sense of nervousness and hesitation,
which was quite natural given the personal nature of the topic. However, as we
continued to share our experiences, I found myself feeling more relaxed and
connected with my partner.

One of the most significant insights I gained from this activity was the
importance of active listening. It is easy to get caught up in our thoughts and emotions
while sharing our perspectives, but truly understanding and empathizing with the other
person requires active listening. I also realized that creating a non-judgmental
environment is crucial for open communication, as it encourages participants to
express their thoughts and feelings freely.

The BenchYell class activity was an enriching experience that allowed me to

connect with my peers on a deeper level. It taught me the importance of active
listening, creating a non-judgmental environment, and fostering empathy in
communication. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to applying these
valuable lessons in my future endeavors.