Embracing Growth Through Academic Challenges by Alexsiya

Embracing Growth Through Academic Challenges by Alexsiya - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through college has been marked by numerous challenges, each contributing to my growth as a student and individual. One of the most significant hurdles I faced was during my first year in the Entertainment Leadership and Management program at Loyola Marymount University. As someone who had always been drawn to understanding the dynamics of organizations and leadership, I was excited to dive into the coursework. However, I quickly realized that understanding management theories and applying them in a practical, real-world context were two very different things.

The challenge became particularly apparent during a course on Organizational Behavior. The class required us to work in teams to analyze real business cases and develop solutions. This was my first experience with such an interactive and practical approach to learning. Despite my enthusiasm, I found myself struggling to contribute effectively in group discussions. I often felt overwhelmed by the complexity of the cases and was unsure of how to translate theoretical knowledge into actionable insights.

This struggle was compounded by my natural inclination to be a perfectionist. I was hesitant to voice ideas unless I was completely confident in their validity, which led to me holding back during group meetings. I realized that my fear of making mistakes was hindering my ability to learn and grow. It was a frustrating realization, but it was also a turning point in my academic journey.

Determined to overcome this challenge, I decided to approach it from multiple angles. Firstly, I reached out to my professor for guidance. I expressed my concerns about my participation and my difficulty in applying theoretical concepts. My professor was incredibly supportive and provided me with valuable advice. She suggested that I focus on the learning process rather than the outcome, reminding me that making mistakes was an essential part of growth. This conversation was reassuring and helped me shift my mindset.

Secondly, I sought to improve my understanding of the course material by forming a study group with some classmates. Working with peers who were facing similar challenges allowed us to support each other and share different perspectives. We would meet regularly to discuss the cases and practice presenting our ideas. This collaborative environment helped build my confidence and improved my ability to articulate my thoughts.

Additionally, I made a conscious effort to engage more actively in class discussions. I set small, achievable goals for myself, such as contributing at least one idea during each group meeting. Gradually, I became more comfortable with sharing my thoughts, even if they were not fully formed. This willingness to participate, despite the fear of being wrong, was crucial in overcoming my perfectionism.

Outside of class, I also sought opportunities to apply management concepts in real-world situations. I joined a student organization focused on entrepreneurship, where I could work on projects that required strategic planning and team collaboration. This experience allowed me to see the practical application of management theories and provided a safe space to experiment and learn from failures.

Through these efforts, I gradually overcame the challenges I faced in the Organizational Behavior course. My performance improved, and I developed a deeper understanding of management principles. More importantly, I learned the value of embracing uncertainty and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.

This experience taught me that academic challenges are not roadblocks, but rather stepping stones to personal and intellectual development. It reinforced the importance of seeking help when needed, collaborating with others, and maintaining a growth mindset. These lessons have been invaluable as I continue my studies in management and prepare for a career in the field.

Reflecting on this journey, I am grateful for the challenges I encountered. They pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning. As I move forward in my academic and professional pursuits, I carry these lessons with me, ready to tackle new challenges with confidence and an open mind.

In conclusion, the academic challenges I faced at Loyola Marymount University have shaped me into a more capable and self-assured student. By embracing these challenges and viewing them as opportunities for growth, I have developed skills that extend beyond the classroom and will serve me well in my future endeavors. I am committed to continuing this journey of learning and self-improvement, eager to apply my knowledge and experiences to make a positive impact in the world of management.