Chemistry by Beatrice

Chemistry by Beatrice - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my life, I have faced many difficulties in school. These difficulties were always simple enough for me to resolve in a day or two but I never had to change my train of thought until the beginning of my sophomore to junior year.

During my sophomore year, I faced many challenges when driving, it was difficult for me to learn and there were many times when I crashed the car. Learning to drive a car took 2 years and throughout that time I learned I was also learning and struggling through chemistry. Chemistry had never been a subject that came easily to me like driving. The concepts seemed abstract, and I struggled to connect them to real-world applications. My initial attempts to grasp the material were met with confusion and frustration. I spent countless hours reading the textbook and watching online tutorials but I still did not understand the subject.

The turning point came when I realized that I needed to approach chemistry differently, much like how I eventually learned to drive by breaking the process down into manageable steps. I started by asking my chemistry teacher questions. This was difficult because I wasn't a student who struggled in class. So it was hard since I felt like I was asking dumb questions and wasting the class's time. The teacher reassured me that it was okay to ask questions since others are usually too scared to ask them.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I studied the material every day. I read each paper the day after we read them and highlighted what was important so I retained the information. This moment of understanding that I needed to study more than before if I wanted the benefits was eye-opening.

I also realized the importance of staying organized and managing my time effectively. I created a study cycle that allocated specific times for reviewing chemistry, ensuring that I was consistently engaging with the material rather than cramming before exams. This methodical approach mirrored how I had to practice driving regularly to improve my skills.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a gradual improvement in chemistry grades. The concepts that once seemed impossible began to make sense, and I found myself enjoying the subject more. This was the same situation when it came to driving, which eventually became easier. By the end of the year, I had not only improved my grade significantly but also developed a newfound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of chemistry.

This experience taught me valuable lessons that extend beyond academics. I learned that facing challenges head-on when needed and maintaining a positive attitude are crucial to overcoming obstacles. Just as I eventually became a confident driver through persistence and practice, I realized that I could tackle any academic challenge with the right mindset and support.

Looking ahead to my college journey, I am eager to apply these lessons as I pursue a major in pharmacy. I know that the path will be rigorous and demanding, but I am prepared to face any difficulties with the resilience and determination I have developed. I am excited to continue learning and growing, knowing that every challenge is an opportunity to become stronger and more capable.

In conclusion, the challenging experience I faced in chemistry class that perseverance, seeking help, and staying organized are the keys to overcoming academic obstacles. These lessons have not only helped me succeed in high school but have also prepared me for the challenges that lie ahead in college and beyond. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and hope to help others tackle their challenges with courage and determination.