Catherine J.
I CSE – 1
Participating in a competition is always an exciting experience, and I feel fortunate to have taken part in two amazing events organized by “The Burke” club since I started college. Both competitions, Block and Tackle and Series Review, were not only enjoyable but also made me think about seeing things from a different perspective.
The first competition, Block and Tackle, focused on thinking quickly and adapting to unexpected topics. In this event, we were asked to speak on a subject without any preparation. It tested our ability to think on our feet and deliver clear messages under pressure. What stood out most to me was: how important it was to stay calm, organise your thoughts quickly, and present your ideas clearly, all while keeping track of time. It was not just about knowing the topic, but about how well you could communicate and keep the audience engaged. This competition helped me improve my communication skills, especially in situations where I had to react quickly and handle unexpected challenges.
While the competition was challenging, it was also very rewarding. It taught me how important it is to be adaptable and think critically when you are put on the spot. It helped me manage my nerves, organise my thoughts on the fly, and speak with more confidence. By the end of it, I felt better prepared to handle situations where I need to think and speak quickly, skills I know will be useful both in my studies and in real life.
The second competition, Series Review, was more structured. In this event, we had to review a series, whether it was a TV show, documentary, or any series of our choice. This competition tested our ability to think critically, judge content, and present our ideas clearly. We had to analyse the series from different angles: its storyline, characters, cinematography, and overall impact. The challenge was not just to express our opinion but to back it up with solid reasons and examples, making our review thoughtful and convincing.
What made Series Review enjoyable was the chance to explore something we all love entertainment and analyse its artistic and cultural value. It encouraged us to think more deeply about what we were watching and how to present our thoughts in a clear, organized way. It was both fun and educational, helping me improve my ability to analyse content and communicate my ideas in a way that others would find interesting and insightful.
In both competitions, The Burke Club did an excellent job of creating an environment where we could test and improve our skills. The atmosphere was supportive, and the feedback we received was constructive, helping us understand how we could do better. These events showed me how much we can learn when we step outside our comfort zones.
Overall, these competitions were a fantastic experience. They combined fun with learning, pushing me to develop skills that will be helpful in both my academic and professional life. I am grateful to have been part of them and look forward to participating in more events organised by The Burke Club in the future.
