My journey as a student nurse by Alyssa

My journey as a student nurse by Alyssa - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My journey through college has been a series of challenges, each shaping me into the person I am today. One particular academic challenge stands out to me, and it taught me the value of perseverance and adaptability. As a nursing major at the College of Central Florida, I have always been passionate about helping others and making a difference in people's lives. However, the path to becoming a nurse is not easy, and I faced a significant hurdle during my sophomore year.

The challenge came in the form of my Anatomy and Physiology course. I had heard from upperclassmen that this class was notoriously difficult, but I was determined to do well. I knew it was essential for my future career in nursing, and I wanted to prove to myself that I could handle the rigorous coursework. However, despite my best efforts, I found myself struggling to keep up with the material. The sheer volume of information, combined with the complexity of the human body, was overwhelming.

I remember the first exam vividly. I had studied for weeks, but when I received my grade, it was much lower than I had hoped. It was a wake-up call, and I realized that my usual study methods were not going to cut it for this class. I felt discouraged and questioned whether I was cut out for the nursing program. However, I knew that giving up was not an option. I had to find a way to overcome this challenge.

The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor and explained my situation. She was incredibly understanding and offered me some valuable advice. She suggested that I form a study group with my classmates so we could help each other understand the material. Taking her advice, I connected with a few classmates who were also struggling, and we started meeting twice a week to review the material together.

Being part of a study group was a game-changer. We were able to share different perspectives and clarify concepts that were confusing. It also provided a sense of accountability, as we were all committed to helping each other succeed. Additionally, I started attending tutoring sessions offered by the college. The tutors were knowledgeable and patient, and they helped me grasp the more challenging topics.

Another strategy that helped me overcome this challenge was changing my study habits. I realized that I needed to be more organized and proactive in my approach. I began creating detailed study schedules, setting aside specific times each day to review my notes and read the textbook. I also started using flashcards and online resources to reinforce my understanding of key concepts. By breaking the material into manageable chunks, I was able to retain the information better.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of resilience and adaptability. It was not easy to admit that I needed help, but doing so was crucial to my success. I also discovered that it is okay to struggle, as long as you are willing to put in the effort to overcome the obstacles. This experience taught me that challenges are opportunities for growth, and they can lead to personal and academic development.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. I was able to raise my grade significantly, and I felt a sense of accomplishment that was incredibly rewarding. More importantly, I gained confidence in my ability to tackle difficult courses and learned skills that will benefit me throughout my nursing career.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenge I faced in my Anatomy and Physiology class. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me the value of perseverance, collaboration, and effective study strategies. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue my journey to becoming a nurse.

In conclusion, overcoming this academic challenge was a pivotal moment in my college experience. It reinforced my commitment to my goals and strengthened my determination to succeed. I am confident that the skills and resilience I developed will help me face future challenges, both in my academic pursuits and in my career as a nurse. I am excited to continue learning and growing, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story through this scholarship application. Thank you for considering my application.