Laura Quintana: “We are all capable of doing it if we set our minds to it”

Hace algunos días, Laura Quintana de IV Medio representó a La Maisonnette en Public Speaking Competition 2023, una competencia de exclamación en inglés que realiza ESU en 50 países y en la que participan jóvenes de entre 16 y 20 años. 

En el caso de Chile, participaron 20 colegio y Laura Quintana se presentó con un espectacular despliegue: “Laura destacó no sólo por su presentación con un impecable inglés, sino también por sus cualidades humanas. Me sentí muy orgullosa que una alumna con esas cualidades nos representara”, dijo Miss Elizabeth Jelves, jefa de Departamento de Inglés y quien apoyó la preparación de Laura. 

Además de felicitarla por su excelente desempeño y compromiso, a continuación, compartimos su reflexión tras terminar la competencia:

“I remember that before the pandemic, we were told about The Public Speaking Contest and how, despite not being a British school, we had the possibility of winning, as a previous student had done. When the pandemic hit, I became a little depressed, thinking that I would not have the opportunity to participate, but I was pleasantly surprised this year when I was able to do it. Even better, I managed to make it into the top 10 and therefore, was given the opportunity to represent our school. 

Although I didn’t win, the experience was really enjoyable, as it felt like much more than just a competition. The other nine participants were very friendly, we spoke and laughed in a relaxing and pleasant manner. The atmosphere was incredible, and we had also friendly competitions to know each other. 

I have always considered myself someone very shy for an activity like this one, but by attending it and overcoming my fears, I found that I am really capable of doing these things, and it also allowed me to make nine new friends! 

That’s why, if this is being read by someone who doesn’t believe they are capable or who doesn’t know if they are 100% motivated to do it, I invite them to try and perhaps, like me, experience the incredible surprise and gratifications of this adventure.  

We are all capable of doing it if we set our minds to it”.

Laura Quintana, IV Medio A