Well said. That's how it was where I went to school as well. We used to have class critiques in all my studio classes at least once a week. Then at the end of each quarter we would have to individually go into a classroom and present (and defend) or project, design, and thinking process to the entire design staff, including the head of design department. It was sooo freakin intense. They were harsh as hell, but it was such a humbling experience, and I am such a better person for it. Since I really have no desire to pursue design as a career though, providing and receiving constructive criticism must be one of the most valuable things I took out of the experience. It will help you in every area of life. Especially since people love giving criticism! So if you can appreciate it, then you will always have an edge over your coworkers, no matter what it is that you are doing.