You are not alone when overcoming challenges by Adriana

You are not alone when overcoming challenges by Adriana - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a first-generation college student at the University of Georgia, I have always understood that my journey would come with its own set of challenges. My family has always emphasized the importance of education, and I knew that pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering would not be easy. However, I was determined to push through any obstacles that came my way. One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced, which tested my resolve and resilience, was during my first semester in college.

When I first arrived at UGA, I was filled with excitement and nervousness. I was ready to dive into my courses and begin my journey as a Civil Engineering major. However, as the semester progressed, I quickly realized that the rigor of college-level coursework was much more intense than I had anticipated. One particular course, Calculus I, proved to be especially challenging for me.

Calculus was a subject I had some exposure to in high school, but the pace and depth of understanding required in college were on a whole different level. During the first few weeks, I struggled to keep up with the lectures and assignments. The concepts seemed abstract, and I found myself spending hours on problems without making much progress. This was frustrating, and I started to doubt my abilities. I knew that mastering calculus was crucial for my success in engineering, so giving up was not an option.

Realizing that I needed to change my approach, I sought help. I started by attending office hours regularly. My professor was incredibly supportive and patient, taking the time to explain concepts in different ways until I understood them. I also joined a study group with some of my classmates. Working with peers allowed me to see different problem-solving methods and helped me feel less isolated in my struggles.

In addition to seeking external help, I took a step back to evaluate my study habits. I realized that I needed to be more organized and proactive in my learning. I began creating a detailed study schedule, breaking down my tasks into manageable chunks and setting specific goals for each study session. I also made use of additional resources like online tutorials and math labs offered by the university to reinforce my understanding.

One of the most important lessons I learned during this time was the value of persistence and resilience. There were days when I felt overwhelmed and defeated, but I reminded myself of my goals and the reasons why I chose this path. I learned to be patient with myself and to celebrate small victories along the way.

Gradually, my efforts started to pay off. I began to see improvement in my understanding of calculus, and my grades reflected this progress. By the end of the semester, I had not only passed the course but had gained a deeper appreciation for the subject and its relevance to my field.

This experience taught me that challenges are an inevitable part of academic life, but they are also opportunities for growth and learning. It reinforced my belief in the importance of seeking help when needed and the power of collaboration. It also highlighted the need for self-reflection and adaptability in my study strategies.

As I continue my journey in Civil Engineering, I carry these lessons with me. I know that there will be more challenges ahead, but I am confident in my ability to overcome them. My experience with calculus has strengthened my resolve and has shown me that I am capable of achieving my academic goals, no matter how difficult they may seem.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming the challenge of Calculus I was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me resilience, the importance of seeking help, and the value of perseverance. As a Hispanic woman in engineering, I am proud of the progress I have made and am excited to continue breaking barriers and pursuing my passion. This experience has prepared me for future challenges and has reinforced my commitment to my education and my future career in Civil Engineering.