Sounds like a skewed assignment. What about those who really don't have much in the feelings department. The grade is prejudiced toward extroverts ( wouldn't be the first time).

It was supposed to be a Symbolic Artifact Speech. We were supposed to discuss how the chosen artifact had an impact on our self-respect/self-esteem. Something I only talk to people with an M.D. after their name. I resent that my grade took a hit not wanted to keep my own secrets private.

Public speaking is one of the reasons I don't have my Bachelor's yet.

What was the goal/aim of the assignment? Why did the prof. want your to share your feelings? Part of the goal for the prof. might have been to create an assignment that requires introspection, that asks you to look at your own responses to life and (perhaps) identify how your feelings may lead you to good or bad choices. You as the speaker had control of what you wanted to say and how you wanted to say it. The professor is never going to know if you actually HAD the experience (of course, I am guessing here; the assignment may not have had the goal of introspection); s/he just wants to be able to see that you can learn from your experiences, and (perhaps) that you can manage your emotions when you discuss your feelings.

That's why I did my entire degree online. I ain't about that nonsense.

Worst assignments are the ones about your own life, or your feelings. I like to make up a character and tell their story and feelings instead.