"Embracing Diverse Journeys" by Alexander

"Embracing Diverse Journeys" by Alexander - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

One of the most challenging academic experiences I have faced during my time at Mt. San Antonio College was adjusting to the rigorous demands of college-level coursework while balancing my responsibilities outside of school. As a sophomore majoring in Business Administration, Finance, and Law, I have always been driven by a strong desire to excel in my studies and eventually transfer to a four-year university. However, this journey has not been without its obstacles.

During my first year, I was excited to dive into my classes and engage with subjects that I am passionate about. However, I quickly realized that the transition from high school to college was more difficult than I had anticipated. The workload was significantly heavier, and the expectations were much higher. I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of my classes, especially when it came to managing multiple assignments and preparing for exams.

One of the most difficult courses I faced was an introductory finance class. The material was complex, and I initially found it hard to grasp key concepts. I remember feeling overwhelmed after the first few weeks, as I was not performing as well as I had hoped. My grades were not reflecting the effort I was putting in, and this was incredibly discouraging.

I knew I had to find a way to overcome these challenges if I wanted to succeed in my chosen fields. I started by reaching out to my professors for help. I attended office hours regularly, where I asked questions and sought clarification on topics I found difficult. My professors were supportive and provided additional resources that helped me understand the material better. This experience taught me the importance of seeking help and using the resources available to me.

In addition to seeking help from my professors, I also formed study groups with my classmates. Collaborating with peers allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material and learn from others who might have a better grasp of certain topics. We worked together to solve problems and shared study techniques, which proved to be incredibly beneficial for all of us. This experience highlighted the value of teamwork and how learning can be a collaborative process.

Time management was another crucial skill I had to develop to overcome my academic challenges. Balancing schoolwork with other responsibilities, such as part-time work and family commitments, required me to be more organized. I started using a planner to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and study sessions. By breaking down my tasks into smaller, manageable goals, I was able to stay on top of my work and reduce the stress that came with last-minute cramming.

Another strategy that helped me was developing effective study habits. I experimented with different techniques, such as active recall and spaced repetition, to improve my retention of the material. I also made sure to take regular breaks during study sessions to avoid burnout. These changes not only helped me better understand the coursework but also made studying a more enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Over time, my efforts began to pay off. My grades improved, and I gained more confidence in my ability to tackle challenging subjects. This experience taught me that persistence and adaptability are key to overcoming obstacles. It also reinforced my passion for my chosen fields of study, as I realized that the challenges I faced were opportunities for growth and learning.

Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned. It has made me more resilient and better prepared for future challenges, both academically and personally. I have come to appreciate the value of hard work, determination, and the support of those around me. As I continue my education with the goal of transferring to a four-year university, I am confident that I will carry these lessons with me and apply them to new challenges.

In conclusion, the academic challenges I faced during my time at Mt. San Antonio College have been instrumental in shaping who I am as a student and as a person. By seeking help, collaborating with others, and developing effective study and time management skills, I was able to overcome these obstacles and grow from the experience. I am committed to continuing this journey of learning and self-improvement, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.