Academic Experience by Amber

Academic Experience by Amber - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Amber Ricard, and I am a freshman at South College, majoring in Nursing. As a first-time college student and a Black woman, I have faced several challenges, but one of the most significant was adjusting to the academic demands of college life.

When I first started college, I was excited but also nervous about the new experiences and opportunities. I quickly realized that college was a lot different from high school. The workload was heavier, the expectations were higher, and I had to manage my time more effectively. One of the biggest challenges I faced was in my biology class. It was a core requirement for my nursing major, and I knew I had to do well in it to continue on my path.

At first, I struggled to keep up with the fast-paced lectures and the amount of information I had to learn in a short period. I found the material interesting, but I was overwhelmed by the volume of work. My initial grades were not what I had hoped for, and I started to doubt my ability to succeed in college. My GPA was a 2.25, which was a wake-up call for me. I knew I had to make some changes if I wanted to achieve my academic and career goals.

To overcome this challenge, I decided to seek help and make use of the resources available to me. I started by attending office hours with my biology professor. At first, I was apprehensive about approaching my professor, but I soon realized how helpful and supportive she was. She explained difficult concepts in a way that made sense to me and offered advice on how to study more effectively. This gave me the confidence to ask questions and engage more with the material.

I also joined a study group with some of my classmates. This was a game-changer for me. Studying with others helped me see different perspectives and reinforced my understanding of the subject. We shared notes, quizzed each other, and kept each other motivated. It was reassuring to know that I was not alone in my struggles and that we could support each other.

Time management was another area I needed to improve. I started using a planner to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and study sessions. I set specific goals for each study session and made sure to take breaks to avoid burnout. This helped me stay organized and reduced my stress levels.

Additionally, I made a point to take care of my well-being. I realized that I could not perform well academically if I was not taking care of myself. I started exercising regularly, eating healthier, and getting enough sleep. These changes improved my focus and energy levels, which in turn helped me study more effectively.

Through perseverance and the support of my professors and peers, I was able to improve my grades in biology and other courses. I learned that it is okay to ask for help and that challenges can be overcome with determination and the right strategies. This experience taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability, qualities that I believe are essential for a successful career in nursing.

While my GPA is not where I want it to be yet, I am committed to continuing to work hard and improve. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned from this challenging experience, and I am determined to succeed in my studies and become a compassionate and skilled nurse.

In conclusion, the transition to college was a challenging academic experience for me, but it was also an opportunity for growth. By seeking help, collaborating with others, and managing my time effectively, I was able to overcome the initial difficulties and set myself on a path to success. I am proud of how far I have come and excited for what the future holds.