hardships of criminal justice by adelai

hardships of criminal justice by adelai - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As I reflect on my journey through my first year at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, one challenging academic experience stands out. It was during my first semester as a Criminal Justice major, a time filled with both excitement and uncertainty. The transition from high school to college was more difficult than I had anticipated, and one class in particular, Introduction to Criminal Justice, pushed me to my limits.

The course was rigorous, with a syllabus that seemed overwhelming at first glance. It was not just the volume of reading and assignments that was daunting, but the complexity of the material. I quickly realized that I needed to develop a deeper understanding of the justice system, its history, and its impact on society. The expectations were high, and I felt a growing pressure to succeed, not just for myself, but to prove that I belonged in this field.

In high school, I had been able to manage my studies with relative ease, but this was different. The lectures were dense, and the pace was fast. I found myself struggling to keep up with the note-taking and comprehending the legal jargon that was completely new to me. After receiving a disappointing grade on my first exam, I knew I had to change my approach if I wanted to succeed.

The first step I took was to seek help. I realized that I could not do this alone, and I reached out to my professor during office hours. This was a difficult step for me, as I had always been somewhat shy about asking for help. However, my professor was incredibly supportive and provided me with guidance on how to approach the material. He suggested that I form a study group with classmates, which turned out to be invaluable. Working with others allowed me to gain different perspectives and helped me to better understand complex concepts.

I also began to refine my study habits. I dedicated specific times each day to review my notes and read the assigned texts. I found that breaking down the material into smaller, manageable sections made it less intimidating. Additionally, I started using flashcards to memorize key terms and concepts, which helped reinforce my learning. I also discovered online resources, such as educational videos and articles, that provided additional explanations and examples.

Time management became crucial. Balancing my coursework with my personal life was challenging, but I learned to prioritize my tasks. I created a weekly schedule that included time for studying, attending classes, and participating in extracurricular activities. This structure helped me stay organized and reduced my stress levels.

One of the most important lessons I learned was the value of resilience. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and doubted my abilities, but I reminded myself why I chose to study Criminal Justice in the first place. I am passionate about making a difference in the community and contributing to a fair and just society. This motivation kept me going, even when the going got tough.

As the semester progressed, my hard work began to pay off. My grades improved, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. I learned to enjoy the challenge of analyzing case studies and discussing ethical dilemmas. The sense of accomplishment I felt after overcoming this academic hurdle was incredibly rewarding.

This experience taught me that challenges are opportunities for growth. It showed me the importance of asking for help, collaborating with others, and developing effective study strategies. Most importantly, it reinforced my commitment to my chosen field and my desire to succeed.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced during that first semester. They have made me a stronger student and have prepared me for future obstacles. I know that I will encounter more difficulties as I continue my studies, but I am confident in my ability to overcome them.

In conclusion, the challenging experience of adapting to college-level coursework in Criminal Justice not only tested my academic skills but also shaped my character. It taught me resilience, persistence, and the importance of seeking support. As I continue my journey at UW Eau Claire, I carry these lessons with me, ready to face whatever comes my way.