Rising Through Adversity: My Journey to Resilience and Teaching by Afriasia

Rising Through Adversity: My Journey to Resilience and Teaching by Afriasia - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Afriasia Bermudez-Crespin, and I am a first-year graduate student at American University, majoring in Teaching. As a first-generation college student, I have faced numerous challenges on my academic journey, but one experience stands out as particularly difficult and transformative.

During my undergraduate studies, I was determined to excel academically and make my family proud. My parents had worked hard to provide me with opportunities they never had, and I wanted to honor their sacrifices. However, one semester, I fell seriously ill and found myself unable to keep up with my coursework. The illness took a toll on my physical and mental health, and I struggled to regain my academic footing.

Missing classes and falling behind on assignments was incredibly stressful. I felt like I was letting myself and my family down. My GPA, which was already a challenge to maintain, suffered significantly. I was overwhelmed and unsure how to move forward. It was a difficult time, and I considered taking a break from school to focus on my health.

However, I knew that giving up was not an option. I was determined to overcome this setback and continue pursuing my dream of becoming a teacher. I reached out to my professors and academic advisors to explain my situation and seek their guidance. Their understanding and support were crucial in helping me navigate this challenging period.

With their help, I was able to arrange for extensions on assignments and make-up exams. I also connected with the university's health services to address my medical needs and begin the process of recovery. This support network was essential in helping me get back on track academically.

In addition to seeking help from my professors and health services, I learned to prioritize self-care. I realized that taking care of my health was not just important for my well-being but also for my academic success. I began to incorporate regular rest, healthy eating, and stress management techniques into my routine. These changes helped me regain my strength and focus.

Despite the challenges, I persevered and gradually improved my academic performance. I learned valuable lessons about resilience, the importance of asking for help, and the need to balance my health with my academic goals. This experience taught me that setbacks can be overcome with determination and support.

As a future educator, I am committed to creating a supportive and understanding environment for my students. I want to be the kind of teacher who recognizes the diverse challenges students may face and provides them with the encouragement and resources they need to succeed. My own experiences have given me empathy and insight that I hope to bring into my classroom.

In conclusion, facing academic challenges as a first-generation college student has taught me resilience and the importance of seeking support. These lessons have not only helped me improve my academic performance but have also prepared me to be a compassionate and effective educator. I am grateful for the opportunity to pursue my passion for teaching and am committed to making a positive impact in the lives of my future students.