Overcome by Adrian

Overcome by Adrian - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Adrian Cruz, and I am a high school senior with a deep interest in pursuing a career in the medical field. I am applying for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest, and I would like to share a challenging academic experience that I faced and how I overcame it.

Throughout high school, I have always been passionate about science and medicine. However, my academic journey has not been without its hurdles. One of the most challenging experiences I faced was during my junior year when I struggled with my chemistry class. Chemistry is a subject that is fundamental to understanding many concepts in the medical field, and I knew that I needed to grasp it well to succeed in my future studies.

At the beginning of the semester, I found myself overwhelmed by the complexity of the material. The periodic table, chemical reactions, and stoichiometry were all new to me, and I was having a hard time keeping up with the pace of the class. My grades began to slip, and I started to doubt my ability to succeed in a field that I was so passionate about. My GPA was not where I wanted it to be, and I knew that I needed to improve to achieve my goal of attending Texas A&M University-Kingsville.

I realized that I needed to take action and find a way to overcome this challenge. First, I reached out to my chemistry teacher and asked for help. I was nervous about admitting that I was struggling, but my teacher was incredibly supportive. She provided me with additional resources and suggested that I attend after-school tutoring sessions. These sessions were a turning point for me. They allowed me to receive one-on-one help and to ask questions in a more relaxed environment.

In addition to tutoring, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also having difficulty with the material. We met regularly to review notes, work through problems, and quiz each other. This collaborative approach not only helped me understand the material better but also boosted my confidence. I learned that I was not alone in my struggles and that working together could lead to success.

Another strategy that helped me was changing the way I studied. I began to use different study techniques, such as making flashcards, watching online videos, and teaching the material to others. By explaining concepts to my peers, I reinforced my own understanding and identified areas where I needed more practice.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of perseverance and asking for help when needed. It was not easy to admit that I was struggling, but seeking support was crucial to overcoming this challenge. I also learned to be adaptable and to try different strategies until I found what worked best for me.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. My grades improved significantly, and I regained my confidence in my ability to succeed in my academic pursuits. This experience taught me that challenges can be overcome with determination, support, and a willingness to learn from mistakes.

Looking back, I am grateful for the struggle I faced in chemistry because it taught me valuable lessons that I will carry with me into college and beyond. I am now more prepared to tackle difficult subjects in my future studies, and I am determined to pursue my passion for medicine. I am excited about the opportunity to attend Texas A&M University-Kingsville and to further my education in the medical field.

In conclusion, the challenging experience I faced in my chemistry class was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and adaptability. I am confident that these lessons will serve me well as I continue my education and pursue a career in the medical field. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest.