From Difficult Times To a More Prosperous Future by Alysha

From Difficult Times To a More Prosperous Future by Alysha - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a college freshman at Bryant & Stratton College, I have faced several academic challenges, but the past year has been particularly difficult due to personal circumstances that deeply affected my studies. Balancing my coursework in the Nursing Assistant program while dealing with these challenges tested my resilience and determination.

Early in the year, I was diagnosed with depression. This was a difficult period for me, as I struggled with motivation and focus, both of which are essential for academic success. The weight of my mental health struggles made it hard to keep up with my studies, and I often found myself falling behind. It was a daunting realization that I needed help, but acknowledging this was the first step toward overcoming the challenge.

Around the same time, my mom was diagnosed with stomach cancer. The news was devastating for my family and me. My mom has always been my rock, and seeing her go through this illness was incredibly hard. I wanted to be there for her as much as possible, which meant juggling hospital visits, caregiving duties, and my college responsibilities. This added pressure made it even more challenging to focus on my studies.

To compound these difficulties, I lost my job, which was my primary source of income. This financial strain added another layer of stress, as I worried about how I would support myself and contribute to my family's needs. It felt like everything was happening at once, and I was overwhelmed.

During this time, I had to take breaks from online school due to my depressive state. These breaks were necessary for my mental health, but they also made it more difficult to catch up on my work. The backlog of assignments and missed lectures added to my stress, and I felt like I was constantly playing catch-up.

Despite these challenges, I knew I had to find a way to persevere. The first step I took was seeking support for my mental health. I reached out to a counselor at my college, who provided a safe space to talk about my feelings and helped me develop coping strategies. This support was invaluable and helped me regain some control over my life.

I also leaned on my friends and family for support. They reminded me that I was not alone in this journey and encouraged me to keep pushing forward. Their love and encouragement gave me strength during the toughest days.

Academically, I reached out to my instructors to explain my situation. They were understanding and offered extensions on assignments when needed. Their flexibility allowed me to manage my time better and reduce some of the stress I was feeling.

To address the financial strain, I began looking for another job that would fit my schedule better. I eventually found a part-time position that provided some financial relief without overwhelming my already busy schedule.

Throughout this challenging time, I learned the importance of prioritizing self-care. I made sure to set aside time for activities that helped me relax and recharge, whether it was going for a walk, reading a book, or simply spending time with loved ones. Taking care of my mental and physical well-being became a crucial part of my routine.

Reflecting on this experience, I realize that it has taught me resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed. It reminded me of why I chose to pursue a career in healthcare—to help others in their times of need. Despite the difficulties, my passion for nursing has only grown stronger, and I am determined to continue my studies and achieve my goals.

In conclusion, overcoming these personal and academic challenges has made me a stronger and more compassionate individual. It has reinforced my commitment to my education and future career as a nursing assistant. I am grateful for the support I received from my college, friends, and family, and I am proud of the progress I have made. As I continue my journey at Bryant & Stratton College, I am confident that I can face any challenge that comes my way, equipped with the resilience and determination I have developed.