Science by Ailyn

Science by Ailyn - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Ailyn Pineda, and I am a high school senior with a deep interest in pursuing studies in Restaurant/Culinary/Food Services, Finance, Hospitality, and Agricultural Business/Management. As I prepare to transition into college, I have come to appreciate the value of perseverance and resilience, especially when faced with academic challenges. One particular experience stands out as a testament to my ability to overcome obstacles and grow from them.

Throughout high school, I have always been passionate about exploring diverse fields, particularly those related to food and business. However, balancing my interests with academic performance has not always been easy. One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my junior year in my chemistry class. Science has never been my strongest subject, and chemistry was especially tough. It was a required course, and I knew that performing poorly could affect my overall GPA, which was already a concern for me.

The first few weeks of chemistry were overwhelming. I struggled to grasp the concepts and found myself falling behind. My grades on quizzes and tests were not where I wanted them to be, and I felt discouraged. I knew that if I did not change my approach, I would continue to struggle and possibly jeopardize my chances of getting into the colleges I was interested in, like Bryant University and Johnson & Wales University.

Realizing that I needed to take action, I decided to seek help. I reached out to my chemistry teacher and expressed my difficulties. She was understanding and offered to help me after school. These extra sessions were incredibly helpful, as they allowed me to ask questions in a one-on-one setting and gain a better understanding of the material.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were also having trouble with the course. We met regularly to review notes, work through practice problems, and quiz each other on key concepts. This collaborative approach not only helped me improve my understanding of chemistry but also taught me the importance of teamwork and mutual support.

Outside of school, I made use of online resources. I found educational videos and tutorials that explained chemistry topics in a way that was easier for me to understand. These resources allowed me to learn at my own pace and revisit difficult concepts as many times as needed. The combination of support from my teacher, collaboration with my peers, and self-directed learning made a significant difference.

Over time, my efforts began to pay off. I started to see improvements in my test scores and felt more confident in my ability to tackle challenging material. By the end of the semester, I had managed to raise my grade significantly. While it was not perfect, it was a testament to my hard work and determination.

This experience taught me several valuable lessons. First, I learned the importance of seeking help and not being afraid to admit when I am struggling. It is okay to ask for assistance, and doing so can open doors to new learning opportunities. Second, I discovered the power of collaboration. Working with others can provide different perspectives and make learning more engaging. Lastly, I realized the value of perseverance. Even when things seem difficult, it is important to keep pushing forward and not give up.

As I look ahead to college, I know that I will face new challenges. However, I am confident that the skills I have developed will serve me well. My interest in Restaurant/Culinary/Food Services, Finance, Hospitality, and Agricultural Business/Management is driven by a desire to learn and grow in fields that I am passionate about. I am excited about the opportunities that await me and am committed to working hard to achieve my goals.

In conclusion, overcoming the challenge of my chemistry class has prepared me for future academic endeavors. It has shown me that with determination, support, and a willingness to learn, I can overcome obstacles and succeed. I am eager to bring this mindset to my college experience and continue to pursue my interests with the same dedication and resilience.