Life Challenge by Ahmed

Life Challenge by Ahmed - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have encountered several challenges that tested my resolve and shaped my academic path. One of the most significant challenges I faced was during my junior year, when I struggled with my Advanced Placement (AP) Economics class. This class was crucial for me because I have a strong interest in pursuing a major in Accounting, Business, Economics, or Finance in college. Understanding the fundamentals of economics is essential for these fields, so I knew I had to overcome this hurdle.

At the beginning of the semester, I was excited to dive into the world of economics. However, as the weeks progressed, I found myself struggling to grasp some of the core concepts. The intricate graphs, the complex theories, and the fast-paced nature of the class left me feeling overwhelmed. My grades started to slip, and I was worried that this would impact my overall GPA, which stood at 3.2. I began to doubt my abilities and question whether I was cut out for a future in business and finance.

Despite these doubts, I was determined not to give up. I realized that I needed to change my approach and find a way to better understand the material. The first step I took was to seek help from my teacher. I scheduled time after class to meet with her and discuss the topics I found most challenging. She was incredibly supportive and provided me with additional resources, such as online lectures and practice problems, to help reinforce my understanding.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with some of my classmates. We met regularly to review the material, work through problems together, and quiz each other on key concepts. This collaborative approach not only helped me gain a deeper understanding of the subject but also allowed me to see different perspectives and problem-solving techniques from my peers.

Another strategy that proved beneficial was utilizing online resources. I discovered various educational websites and video tutorials that explained economic concepts in a more digestible manner. These resources were invaluable in helping me visualize and comprehend the material. I spent extra time each week reviewing these materials, which gradually improved my confidence and performance in the class.

Balancing my time was another challenge I faced during this period. With other classes and extracurricular activities demanding my attention, it was crucial for me to develop strong time management skills. I created a study schedule that allowed me to allocate specific time slots each day for economics, ensuring that I stayed on top of the coursework without neglecting my other responsibilities.

As the semester progressed, my hard work began to pay off. My grades improved, and I started to feel more confident in my ability to tackle challenging problems. By the end of the course, I had not only managed to raise my grade significantly but also developed a genuine interest in economics. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, seeking help when needed, and the value of collaboration.

Overcoming this academic challenge has had a lasting impact on me. It reinforced my passion for pursuing a major in Accounting, Business, Economics, or Finance, and it gave me the confidence to tackle future challenges with a proactive mindset. I learned that setbacks are not a reflection of my potential but rather opportunities for growth and learning.

As I look forward to attending college, I am excited about the prospect of further exploring these fields and building upon the foundation I have developed in high school. I am particularly interested in attending SUNY at Buffalo, SUNY Buffalo State College, Oklahoma State University, the University of New Haven, Clark Atlanta University, or Siena College, where I can continue to challenge myself academically and prepare for a successful career in business and finance.

In conclusion, the struggles I faced in my AP Economics class taught me valuable lessons about resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of seeking help. These lessons have not only prepared me for the academic challenges I may encounter in college but have also shaped my approach to learning and problem-solving. I am grateful for the experience and look forward to applying these skills in my future studies and career endeavors.