challenging academic experience by Aryie

challenging academic experience by Aryie - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Aryie Sandoval, and I am a freshman at Mt. San Antonio College, majoring in Construction Engineering. Being the first in my family to attend college, I have faced various challenges that have tested my perseverance and determination. One of the most significant academic challenges I encountered was during my first semester in college, which taught me valuable lessons about resilience and self-belief.

When I first started college, I was excited but also quite nervous. I had always been interested in construction engineering, drawn to the idea of building and designing structures that could stand the test of time. However, I soon realized that my high school preparation was not as robust as I had hoped. In particular, I struggled with the rigorous math courses that are fundamental to my major. My first encounter with college-level calculus was a wake-up call. The concepts were complex, and I found myself falling behind in class.

My initial grades reflected my struggle, and I ended up with a GPA of 2.7. This was a tough pill to swallow, as I had always been a hardworking student. I began to doubt my ability to succeed in my chosen field. The fear of failure loomed over me, and I considered changing my major to something less demanding. However, I knew deep down that construction engineering was my passion, and I was determined to overcome this hurdle.

To tackle this challenge, I realized I needed to change my approach. First, I sought help from my professors and classmates. I attended office hours regularly and asked questions, no matter how trivial they seemed. I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling. Working together, we were able to help each other understand difficult concepts and keep each other motivated. This collaborative effort made a significant difference in my understanding of the material.

Additionally, I made use of the resources available on campus, such as tutoring centers and online tutorials. I spent extra hours each week practicing problems and watching videos to reinforce my learning. It was not easy, and there were times when I felt overwhelmed, but I kept reminding myself of my goals and why I chose this path in the first place.

Another important aspect of overcoming this challenge was managing my time effectively. I created a detailed schedule that included time for studying, attending classes, and participating in extracurricular activities. This helped me maintain a balance and ensured that I was dedicating enough time to improve my academic performance without neglecting other aspects of college life.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of resilience and perseverance. I realized that setbacks are a part of the learning experience and that it is essential to keep pushing forward, even when the going gets tough. By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. My understanding of calculus improved significantly, and I felt more confident in my abilities. Although my GPA did not skyrocket, the improvement in my grades and my newfound confidence were victories in themselves.

This experience taught me that challenges are opportunities for growth. It reinforced my belief that with determination and the right support, I can overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. As I continue my studies in construction engineering, I carry these lessons with me, knowing that I am capable of handling whatever challenges come my way.

Looking ahead, I am eager to transfer to Mt. San Antonio College's advanced programs to further my education in construction engineering. I am committed to continuing my academic journey with the same dedication and resilience that helped me overcome my initial struggles. I hope to inspire others who may find themselves in similar situations, showing them that perseverance and a willingness to seek help can lead to success.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced during my first semester of college was a turning point in my life. It taught me the value of hard work, collaboration, and self-belief. These lessons have shaped me into a more determined student and have strengthened my resolve to succeed in the field of construction engineering. I am grateful for the experience, as it has prepared me for the challenges that lie ahead and has instilled in me the confidence to pursue my dreams.