My Life by Ashley

My Life by Ashley - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced several academic challenges, but one stands out as a pivotal moment that taught me resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed. This challenge came during my junior year in my AP Chemistry class. Chemistry had always fascinated me, especially as it ties into my passion for marine biology, but the advanced concepts and fast pace of the AP course proved to be more difficult than I anticipated.

At the beginning of the year, I was excited and eager to dive into the subject. However, as we progressed into more complex topics like thermodynamics and chemical kinetics, I found myself struggling to keep up. I remember the sinking feeling after receiving my first test score, which was much lower than I had expected. It was a wake-up call that made me realize that my usual study habits were not enough for this class.

Initially, I felt overwhelmed and discouraged. I had always been a good student, maintaining a 3.7 GPA, and this was the first time I genuinely felt out of my depth. The thought of not succeeding in a subject related to my future career in marine biology was daunting. However, I knew that I could not let this setback define my academic journey.

The first step I took was to change my mindset. Instead of viewing my struggles as a failure, I began to see them as an opportunity to grow and learn. I reminded myself that challenges are a part of life and that overcoming them would make me stronger and more prepared for the future. With this new perspective, I became determined to improve my performance in AP Chemistry.

I started by reaching out for help. I realized that I did not have to face this challenge alone. I began attending after-school tutoring sessions with my chemistry teacher, who was incredibly supportive and patient. These sessions were invaluable, as they allowed me to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the material at my own pace. Additionally, I formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling. We met regularly to discuss difficult concepts, work through practice problems, and support each other. This collaborative approach not only improved my understanding but also made the learning process more enjoyable.

Moreover, I adopted new study techniques that were more suited to the demands of the course. I started creating detailed study guides and flashcards for each unit, which helped me organize information and retain key concepts. I also utilized online resources, such as educational videos and practice quizzes, to reinforce my learning. By diversifying my study methods, I was able to approach the material from different angles, which greatly enhanced my comprehension.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a gradual improvement in my performance. My test scores began to rise, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. By the end of the year, I had not only passed the AP Chemistry exam but also developed a genuine appreciation for the subject. This experience taught me that perseverance, adaptability, and collaboration are essential skills for overcoming academic challenges.

Reflecting on this journey, I am grateful for the lessons I learned. It reinforced my passion for science and my desire to pursue a major in marine biology. I realized that the skills I gained in tackling this challenge—critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication—are directly applicable to my future studies and career. As I look forward to attending college at the University of Tampa, I am confident that I will be able to handle any academic challenges that come my way.

In conclusion, the challenge I faced in AP Chemistry was a turning point in my academic career. It taught me the importance of seeking help, embracing new strategies, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of adversity. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well as I continue my education and work towards my goal of contributing to the field of marine biology. I am eager to apply what I have learned to my future studies and am confident that I have the resilience and determination to succeed.