My academic journey by Ashanti

My academic journey by Ashanti - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As I reflect on my academic journey, one challenging experience stands out vividly. It was during my senior year of high school, a time when I was juggling multiple responsibilities and trying to maintain my GPA. I was taking a particularly demanding psychology class that was known for its rigorous curriculum and high expectations. Psychology has always fascinated me, and I was eager to delve deeper into the subject. However, I quickly realized that my enthusiasm alone would not be enough to excel in this class.

My high school had a diverse student body, and I was one of the few Black students in the advanced psychology course. This sometimes made me feel like I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. The class required a lot of reading and understanding complex theories, which was a step up from what I was used to. I struggled with some of the concepts and often found myself feeling overwhelmed by the amount of information I needed to absorb. My initial grades reflected this struggle, and I was worried about how it would impact my overall GPA.

I knew I had to find a way to overcome these challenges if I wanted to succeed. The first thing I did was reach out to my teacher for help. This was a big step for me because I had always been a bit shy about asking for assistance. However, my teacher was very supportive and offered to meet with me after school to go over the material I found difficult. These sessions were incredibly helpful, as they allowed me to ask questions in a one-on-one setting and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We met once a week to review our notes, discuss the readings, and quiz each other on key concepts. This collaborative approach not only helped me grasp the material better but also made me feel more connected to my peers. We supported each other and shared different perspectives, which enriched my learning experience.

Time management was another crucial factor in overcoming this academic challenge. I realized that I needed to be more disciplined with my study schedule. I started using a planner to organize my assignments and set aside specific times each day for studying psychology. This helped me stay on top of my work and reduced the stress of last-minute cramming.

Despite my initial struggles, I gradually saw improvement in my grades and my confidence grew. By the end of the semester, I had developed a solid understanding of the material and was able to apply the concepts I learned to real-life situations. This experience taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed. It also reinforced my passion for psychology, which I am now pursuing as one of my majors.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced in that psychology class. They pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me skills that have been invaluable in my college studies. As a freshman majoring in both psychology and criminal justice, I continue to draw on the lessons I learned during that time. I understand that challenges are a part of the learning process, and I am better equipped to handle them now.

Being a Black woman in academia, I am aware of the unique challenges that come with it. However, I am determined to use my experiences to inspire others and contribute to a more inclusive environment in my fields of study. The challenges I faced in high school have only strengthened my resolve to succeed and make a positive impact in my community.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced in high school taught me resilience, the importance of seeking support, and effective time management. These lessons have been crucial in my transition to college and continue to guide me as I pursue my majors in psychology and criminal justice. I am confident that the skills I have developed will help me overcome future challenges and achieve my academic and career goals.