Overcoming Academic Challenges by Anna

Overcoming Academic Challenges by Anna - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

I have always been passionate about understanding the world around me, especially the systems that govern society and how they impact people. This passion led me to major in Criminal Justice at the College of Coastal Georgia. However, my journey has not been without its challenges. One of the most difficult academic experiences I faced was during my first year, in an introductory course that was crucial for my major.

The course, Introduction to Criminal Justice, was designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the criminal justice system, covering everything from law enforcement to the courts and corrections. While I was excited to dive into the subject, I quickly realized that the sheer volume of information, coupled with the complexity of the topics, was overwhelming. The course required not only memorization of facts but also a deep understanding of legal principles and the ability to critically analyze case studies.

As a Native American and African American woman, I felt a personal connection to the material, especially when it came to discussions about race and justice. However, this connection also made the course emotionally challenging. It was difficult to detach myself from the harsh realities we studied, and I often found myself frustrated by the injustices we discussed.

Midway through the semester, I hit a low point. I struggled with the coursework, and my grades started to slip. I was worried that I might not be able to keep up with the demands of the class, which was disheartening because I was so invested in my major. I knew I needed to find a way to overcome these challenges and succeed in the course.

The first step I took was to reach out for help. I realized that I could not tackle this alone, so I started attending study groups organized by my classmates. Working with others helped me see different perspectives and understand the material in new ways. We would meet twice a week, and these sessions became a safe space for us to ask questions and learn from one another. I also took advantage of office hours, where I could discuss my concerns directly with my professor. These interactions were invaluable, as they allowed me to clarify my doubts and receive guidance on how to approach complex topics.

In addition to seeking help from others, I also had to develop new study strategies. I started creating detailed outlines of each chapter and used flashcards to help memorize key terms and concepts. I also began to apply what I learned to real-world scenarios, which made the material more relatable and easier to grasp. By connecting the academic content to current events and issues, I was able to engage with the material on a deeper level.

Another important aspect of overcoming this challenge was managing my time effectively. I realized that I needed to dedicate more time to this course than I initially anticipated. I created a study schedule that allowed me to break down the material into manageable sections, which prevented me from feeling overwhelmed. By setting aside specific times each day to focus on Criminal Justice, I was able to stay on top of the coursework and gradually improve my understanding.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of resilience and perseverance. There were moments when I felt like giving up, but I reminded myself of why I chose this major in the first place. I am passionate about making a difference in the world and understanding the complexities of the justice system is a crucial step towards achieving that goal. This motivation kept me going, even when the challenges seemed insurmountable.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. I managed to improve my grades and gained a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system. More importantly, I developed skills that would serve me well throughout my academic career, such as critical thinking, time management, and the ability to seek help when needed.

This experience taught me that challenges are opportunities for growth. While it was difficult to navigate, it ultimately made me a stronger student and reinforced my commitment to my studies. I am proud of how I overcame this obstacle and am confident that the skills and resilience I gained will help me succeed in my future endeavors.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming this academic challenge was a pivotal moment in my college journey. It taught me the value of persistence, collaboration, and strategic planning. As I continue my studies in Criminal Justice, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that I am capable of tackling any challenge that comes my way.