Just Some Help and Patience by Alyssa

Just Some Help and Patience by Alyssa - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Back in high school, I had my fair share of academic hurdles, but junior year Algebra II really put me to the test. Math has always been a challenging subject for me, so doing well in this class was super important. I remember feeling totally swamped by all the material we had to cover. The concepts were tough, and the class moved fast. My grades started slipping, and I was worried about keeping up.

At first, I thought I could just power through by studying harder, but that did not work out like I hoped. I realized I needed to switch things up and get some help. I went to my teacher and asked for advice on how to tackle the material. She was awesome and suggested I join after-school study sessions and a study group with some classmates.

Joining the study group was a game-changer. It was great to have people to talk through the topics with, ask questions, and get different takes on the material. We met up a couple times a week to go over chapters, discuss key ideas, and quiz each other. It made studying way more fun and less lonely.

I also started using online resources to help me out. Watching math videos and tutorials really helped me get a better grip on the concepts. Plus, I began taking more detailed notes in class and while reading. Organizing my notes made it easier to review them later, which was a big help.

Time management was another big challenge. Between my classes, extracurriculars, and family stuff, juggling everything was tough. I realized I needed to get my act together and manage my time better. I started using a planner to map out my study sessions, assignments, and other commitments. This helped me stay on top of things and make sure I was giving enough attention to each subject, especially math.

Even with all these changes, there were times I felt down. But I kept reminding myself why I was doing this. I want to be a juvenile counselor, and understanding math is part of the skills I need for college. This kept me motivated, even when things got rough.

By the end of the semester, all my hard work paid off. My grades improved, and I really got a handle on the material. More importantly, I learned a ton about time management, working with others, and solving problems. These skills have been super useful as I get ready for college.

Looking back, I am actually grateful for the challenge. It taught me to ask for help when I need it and showed me that sticking with it can really pay off. I learned that success is not just about being naturally good at something, but also about putting in the effort and using the right strategies. This experience has only made me more determined to study psychology and make a difference in healthcare.

In the end, dealing with Algebra II was a big turning point for me. It pushed me to develop new study habits, lean on others for support, and stay focused on my goals. Overcoming this challenge has gotten me ready for college and strengthened my love for psychology. I am pumped to keep learning and work towards becoming a juvenile counselor, where I can help others tackle their challenges and find their way to a better future.