As a graduate student I felt used. I was a teaching assistant working for the director of the Principles of Speech course. Unlike many of my colleagues, I taught one class and did additional administrative duties. I edited the graduate program newsletter and wrote whatever they told me to write… conference papers, book chapters, grant proposals, training manuals… you name it.

I felt used. If you knew me then, you may have heard me complain.

One day after I presented before the incoming class of teaching assistants, the director commended me most highly. She said how my voice had matured in terms of volume, pitch, and tone.

I had forgotten about the days when I opened my mouth, and nothing came out. Then she said something that changed my perspective completely. She said that Dr. Zaharna encouraged her to hire me. (Read more about that here.)

I was shocked. I recreated the conversation in my mind.

“Hi Laura, how are you doing? I have a student I think you should hire in the Principles of Speech Teaching Assistants program.”

“Really, tell me more.”

“Well... when she opens her mouth… ah…. Nothing comes out.”

“Oh”

"But she can write."

"Ok, I’ll try her out in one class and let her help me with my writing tasks."

I never felt used again. I felt gratitude.

You are not being used if you are growing.