Challenging Academic Experience by Angelina

Challenging Academic Experience by Angelina - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Angelina Steiger, and I am a sophomore at the University of Pikeville, majoring in Criminal Justice. Throughout my academic journey, I have encountered a number of challenges, but one particular experience during my freshman year stands out as a turning point for me. It was a time when I had to confront my own limitations and learn how to navigate through an unexpected academic struggle.

When I first started college, I was excited about the opportunities that lay ahead. However, I quickly realized that the transition from high school to college was more challenging than I had anticipated. The workload was heavier, the expectations were higher, and the pace was much faster. As someone who had always managed to do well in school without much difficulty, this new environment was overwhelming.

One of the most challenging courses I faced was Introduction to Criminal Justice. I had chosen this major because I was passionate about understanding the justice system and wanted to make a difference in my community. However, I found myself struggling to keep up with the dense reading material and complex concepts. My grades in the class were not what I had hoped for, and I started to doubt my abilities.

I knew I had to do something to improve my situation, but I was not sure where to start. I felt embarrassed to ask for help, as I had always been a self-reliant student. However, I realized that I could not overcome this challenge alone. I decided to reach out to my professor and seek guidance. This was a difficult step for me, but I knew it was necessary.

My professor was incredibly understanding and supportive. We discussed my difficulties and she suggested several strategies to help me improve. She encouraged me to attend her office hours regularly, where we could go over the material in more detail. She also recommended that I form a study group with my classmates, as discussing the material with others could provide different perspectives and enhance my understanding.

Taking her advice, I started attending office hours and joined a study group. These sessions were immensely helpful. During office hours, I was able to ask questions in a one-on-one setting, which helped clarify many of the concepts I was struggling with. The study group also proved to be beneficial, as my peers and I were able to support each other and share our insights.

In addition to seeking help from my professor and peers, I realized that I needed to improve my time management skills. I began organizing my schedule more effectively, setting aside specific times for studying and breaking down the material into manageable sections. This approach helped me stay on track and reduced the feeling of being overwhelmed.

As the semester progressed, I started to see improvements in my understanding of the course material and my grades. This experience taught me the importance of seeking help when needed and the value of collaboration. It also showed me that it is okay to struggle and that overcoming challenges often requires stepping out of my comfort zone.

My GPA is currently 2.2, which reflects the difficulties I faced during my freshman year. However, I am determined to continue improving and to make the most of my education. This experience has motivated me to work harder and to remain resilient in the face of challenges. I am committed to developing the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in my field and to contribute positively to society.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced in my Introduction to Criminal Justice course taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, seeking help, and the importance of effective study habits. I overcame this challenge by reaching out for support, collaborating with my peers, and improving my time management skills. This experience has shaped me into a more determined and resourceful student, and I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow from it. I am confident that the skills I have developed will serve me well in my future endeavors, both academically and professionally.