The Quiet One in the Back Row
Every class has that one student who sits in the back, avoids raising their hand, and quietly blends into the background. That was me. While others jumped to answer questions or join discussions, I stayed silent—not because I didn’t know the answer, but because I didn’t feel the need to prove it. I preferred watching, listening, and thinking deeply before speaking. People often assumed I was shy or unprepared, but I was just processing things differently. I had the answers in my mind, but I didn’t feel the urge to raise my hand unless I felt it truly mattered. Looking back, I’ve realized that being quiet doesn’t mean you’re invisible. Sometimes, silence is where the most thoughtful ideas are born—and that can be a superpower.
"Silence is a source of great strength."
— Lao Tzu
The Quiet One in the Back Row
When Participation Equals Popularity
Let’s be honest—most classrooms unintentionally favor the loud and confident. The more you speak, the more teachers notice you. Extra marks for participation, praise for speaking up—it almost felt like being vocal equaled being smart. As an introvert, that was frustrating. I remember once scoring top marks in tests but getting a low grade in “class involvement.” It felt unfair. I didn’t lack understanding—I just wasn’t built to jump into conversations without thinking things through. Over time, I realized that quiet students like me often go unnoticed—not because we’re not capable, but because the system isn’t designed to value silent thinkers. That realization was tough but also empowering.
"Introverts may be quiet, but they are profound thinkers with voices that matter."
When Participation Equals Popularity
Learning My Own Way
I discovered pretty early that I learn best when I’m on my own. Quiet spaces, my own pace, and zero interruptions—that’s when my mind actually lights up. Group studies or loud debates overwhelmed me. I wasn’t slow; I just needed space to think. So instead of forcing myself to learn the “usual” way, I built my own methods—creating mind maps, recording voice notes, even writing journal entries about what I’d learned. When I stopped comparing myself to louder students, things got better. My grades improved, but more importantly, I enjoyed studying again. I stopped trying to “fit in” and focused on what worked for me. That changed everything.
"There’s no ‘right’ way to learn—there’s only your way. Find it, and don’t let go."
— Sanjeet's Blog 😉
Learning My Own Way
The Social Exhaustion No One Talks About
Spending hours in a classroom full of noise and people may not seem like a big deal—but for introverts, it can be exhausting. After a long school day, all I wanted was some peace and space. While others rushed to hang out or chat, I just wanted to be alone with my thoughts. Some people thought I was being antisocial or distant, but honestly, I just needed to recharge. That kind of invisible exhaustion is something not many talk about. I started taking small breaks, plugging in my earphones during lunch, or finding a quiet corner to breathe. And guess what? It helped. You don’t always have to be social to be accepted—you just have to take care of yourself.
"Recharging alone isn’t selfish—it’s survival for an introvert."
The Social Exhaustion No One Talks About
