Overcoming. by Andin

Overcoming. by Andin - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Andin McCoy, and I am a freshman at Geneva College, majoring in Cybersecurity. As I look back on my academic journey, I realize that one of the most challenging experiences I faced was during my high school years. It was a time when I struggled to find my footing academically, and my GPA reflected that struggle. However, it was also a period of growth and learning that taught me resilience and the importance of seeking help.

Throughout high school, I often found myself overwhelmed by the sheer volume of coursework and the pressure to perform well. Balancing assignments, tests, and extracurricular activities was a constant juggling act. My GPA hovered around 2.92, and I knew I was capable of more, but I just could not seem to break through the barriers holding me back.

The turning point came during my junior year when I took a computer science class. Initially, I was excited about the subject because I have always been interested in technology and how things work. However, as the semester progressed, I quickly realized that I was in over my head. The concepts were complex, and I struggled to keep up with the pace of the class. My grades in the subject started to slip, and I felt discouraged.

It was a difficult time, and I considered dropping the class. But something inside me refused to give up. I knew that understanding computer science was crucial for my future aspirations in cybersecurity, and I was determined to overcome this challenge. I realized that I needed to change my approach to learning, and that meant seeking help.

I reached out to my teacher and expressed my difficulties. To my surprise, she was incredibly supportive and willing to help me. She suggested that I attend after-school tutoring sessions and work with a study group. At first, I was hesitant because I feared judgment from my peers, but I soon realized that many of them were facing similar struggles. We began meeting regularly, and it was comforting to know that I was not alone in my challenges.

The study group became a safe space where we could ask questions and learn from each other. We would tackle difficult problems together and celebrate small victories. Slowly but surely, I began to understand the material better. My teacher's encouragement and the collaborative environment of the study group made a significant difference. I learned the importance of asking for help and the value of teamwork in overcoming obstacles.

Additionally, I started to develop better study habits. I created a schedule that allowed me to dedicate focused time to each subject, and I practiced active learning techniques like summarizing information in my own words and teaching concepts to others. These strategies helped me retain information more effectively and boosted my confidence.

By the end of the semester, my grades in computer science improved significantly, and I felt a sense of accomplishment. More importantly, I gained a deeper understanding of the subject and a renewed passion for technology. This experience taught me that challenges are opportunities for growth and that perseverance and seeking support can lead to success.

As I transitioned to college, I carried these lessons with me. Cybersecurity is a demanding field, and I know that there will be times when I face difficulties. However, I am confident in my ability to overcome them because of the skills and resilience I developed during that challenging time in high school. I have learned to be proactive in seeking help and to embrace collaboration as a powerful tool for learning.

In conclusion, the academic challenges I faced in high school were a pivotal part of my journey. They taught me the importance of perseverance, the value of asking for help, and the power of working together with others. These lessons have shaped me into the student I am today and have prepared me for the challenges ahead in my college career and beyond. I am grateful for the support I received from my teacher and peers, and I am committed to applying these lessons as I pursue my passion for cybersecurity.