Overcoming Academic Difficulties by Aidan

Overcoming Academic Difficulties by Aidan - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced various academic challenges, but one experience stands out as particularly formative. During my junior year, I enrolled in an Advanced Placement (AP) computer science course. I had always been interested in numbers and how they can tell a story, so I thought this class would be a perfect fit for me. However, it turned out to be far more challenging than I anticipated.

The first few weeks were manageable, but as we delved deeper into complex concepts such as probability distributions and hypothesis testing, I found myself struggling to keep up. The pace of the class was fast, and I quickly realized that my usual study methods were not enough to grasp the material fully. My grades began to slip, and I started to feel overwhelmed.

For someone who had always been able to rely on a decent GPA of 3.3, this was a tough pill to swallow. I knew I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed. I decided to tackle this challenge head-on by first acknowledging that I needed help. This was not easy for me, as I had always been fairly independent in my studies, but I knew it was necessary.

I started by reaching out to my teacher, who was incredibly supportive. She offered extra help sessions after school and provided additional resources that I could use to study. Her willingness to assist me gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward. I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were also finding the course challenging. We met twice a week to go over homework and prepare for exams. This collaborative environment allowed us to learn from each other and gain different perspectives on the material.

Additionally, I began to make use of online resources, such as educational videos and forums, to supplement my learning. I found that watching videos on complex topics helped me understand them better, as I could pause and replay sections until the concepts clicked. This was a turning point for me, as I started to feel more in control of my learning process.

Time management also played a crucial role in overcoming this challenge. I had to balance my other classes, extracurricular activities, and part-time job as a life guard with the demands of AP computer science. I created a detailed study schedule that allocated specific times for each subject, ensuring that I dedicated enough time to the programming aspects of the class without neglecting my other responsibilities.

Through these efforts, I gradually began to see improvement. My grades started to rise, and I gained a deeper understanding of the material. More importantly, I developed a resilience and perseverance that I had not known I possessed. This experience taught me that it is okay to ask for help and that collaboration can be a powerful tool in overcoming obstacles.

In the end, I have made great strides in the class. This experience not only improved my academic skills but also prepared me for future challenges in college. As I look forward to pursuing a major in Business Administration and Risk Management, I am confident that the problem-solving skills and persistence I developed will serve me well.

Reflecting on this journey, I realize that the challenges I faced were not just about understanding computer programming. They were about learning how to adapt and find solutions when things do not go as planned. This mindset will be invaluable as I move forward in my education and career. I am excited about the opportunities that await me at SUNY College at Cortland, SUNY College at Oneonta, SUNY at Oswego, University of Rhode Island, University of Delaware, Kent State University, Marist College or St John's University. Each of these schools offers a unique environment where I can continue to grow academically and personally.

In conclusion, my experience with AP Statistics was a defining moment in my high school career. It taught me the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and adaptability. I am grateful for the support I received from my teacher and classmates, and I am proud of the growth I achieved through this challenge. As I prepare to embark on my college journey, I carry with me the lessons learned and the confidence that I can overcome any academic challenge that comes my way.