Becoming a better me. by Alyssa

Becoming a better me. by Alyssa - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through high school has been filled with many rewarding experiences, but it has not been without its challenges. One of the most significant academic challenges I faced was during my junior year, when I took on the daunting task of enrolling in Advanced Placement Chemistry. I have always been passionate about science, and I knew that taking AP Chemistry would be a critical step toward my dream of pursuing a career in healthcare or engineering. However, I quickly realized that the course was much more demanding than I had anticipated.

From the start, I struggled with the pace and complexity of the material. The concepts were intricate, and the workload was intense. I found myself spending countless hours trying to grasp the principles of chemical reactions, stoichiometry, and thermodynamics. Despite my efforts, my grades did not reflect the hard work I was putting in, and I began to doubt my abilities. It was a humbling experience, and I felt overwhelmed.

Recognizing that I needed help, I decided to reach out to my teacher, Mrs. Thompson, for guidance. She was incredibly supportive and encouraged me to attend her after-school tutoring sessions. These sessions were invaluable, as they provided me with the opportunity to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the material. Mrs. Thompson's patience and dedication helped me build a solid foundation in chemistry, and I began to regain my confidence.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling. We met twice a week to review notes, work through practice problems, and prepare for exams together. This collaborative approach not only made the material more manageable but also fostered a sense of camaraderie among us. We motivated each other to keep pushing forward, and it was reassuring to know that I was not alone in facing these challenges.

To further enhance my understanding, I turned to online resources such as Khan Academy and YouTube tutorials. These platforms offered a different perspective on the topics we were covering in class and allowed me to learn at my own pace. I found that watching videos and working through interactive exercises helped reinforce the concepts I was struggling with.

Time management also played a crucial role in overcoming this challenge. With the demands of AP Chemistry, I had to become more disciplined with my schedule. I started using a planner to organize my assignments and set aside dedicated study time each day. This structure helped me stay on top of my coursework and reduced the stress of last-minute cramming.

As the year progressed, my hard work began to pay off. My grades improved, and I developed a genuine interest in the subject. More importantly, I learned valuable lessons about perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed. This experience taught me that it is okay to struggle and that overcoming challenges often requires a combination of hard work, support, and resourcefulness.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced in AP Chemistry. They pushed me to grow academically and personally, and they reinforced my passion for science. This experience has prepared me for the rigors of college-level coursework and has strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in nursing or engineering. I am excited about the prospect of attending a university where I can continue to explore my interests and make a positive impact in the field of healthcare or engineering.

As I prepare to transition from high school to college, I carry with me the lessons I learned from this challenging academic experience. I am confident that the skills I developed will serve me well in my future studies, and I am eager to embrace new challenges and opportunities. I believe that my determination, resilience, and commitment to learning will make me a strong candidate for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story.