Life at Texas State by Anna Mae

Life at Texas State by Anna Mae - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a junior at Texas State University, majoring in Communication Studies with a minor in Leadership Studies, I have come to appreciate the value of perseverance and adaptability in the face of academic challenges. One particular experience during my sophomore year tested my resilience and ultimately taught me the importance of seeking support and maintaining a positive outlook.

The challenge arose in a course called "Interpersonal Communication," which is a core part of my major. The class was known for its demanding curriculum and rigorous expectations. I was excited to dive into the material, as effective communication is something I am passionate about. However, things did not go as smoothly as I had anticipated. The workload was overwhelming, with extensive reading assignments, frequent essays, and complex group projects. On top of that, I struggled to grasp some of the theoretical concepts that were crucial for understanding interpersonal dynamics.

At first, I tried to tackle the situation on my own, believing that I could manage everything with enough effort. I spent long nights in the library, poring over textbooks and lecture notes, hoping to make sense of the material. Despite my hard work, I found myself falling behind. My grades were not reflecting the effort I was putting in, and I felt increasingly frustrated and anxious.

Realizing that my approach was not working, I decided to seek help. I reached out to my professor, who was incredibly supportive and understanding. She encouraged me to attend her office hours regularly, where she patiently explained difficult concepts and offered guidance on how to approach assignments more effectively. Her willingness to help reminded me of the importance of utilizing available resources and seeking guidance when needed.

Additionally, I joined a study group with some of my classmates. This turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. Collaborating with others allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material and clarify any misunderstandings. We shared notes, discussed challenging topics, and prepared for exams together. This collaborative environment not only improved my understanding of the course content but also boosted my confidence.

Throughout this process, I learned to manage my time more efficiently. I began to prioritize tasks, break down assignments into manageable parts, and set realistic goals for each study session. I also made sure to take breaks and engage in activities that helped me relax and recharge, such as going for walks or practicing mindfulness.

The experience taught me that facing academic challenges is not a sign of weakness, but an opportunity for growth. By acknowledging my struggles and taking proactive steps to address them, I was able to overcome the difficulties I faced in the course. My grades improved, and I ended the semester with a sense of accomplishment and a deeper understanding of interpersonal communication.

This experience has had a lasting impact on my approach to academics and life in general. It reinforced the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to seek help when needed. It also highlighted the value of building a support network and working collaboratively with others.

As I continue my studies in Communication and Leadership, I carry these lessons with me. I am motivated to apply what I have learned to future challenges, both academically and professionally. I am committed to fostering environments where open communication and collaboration are encouraged, and where individuals feel empowered to seek support and learn from one another.

In conclusion, the challenging experience I faced in my "Interpersonal Communication" course was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me that overcoming obstacles requires a combination of hard work, resourcefulness, and the courage to reach out for help. These are skills that I will continue to develop and apply throughout my life, as I strive to make a positive impact in the field of communication and beyond.