Brandon Robinson by Brandon

Brandon Robinson by Brandon - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I first started college at SUNY at Buffalo, I was excited and ready to take on the world. I had always done well in high school, with a GPA of 3.5, and I was eager to dive into my accounting major. However, the transition from high school to college was more challenging than I had anticipated. The workload was heavier, the classes were more demanding, and I quickly realized that I needed to adjust my study habits if I wanted to succeed.

One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my first semester in my Introduction to Financial Accounting class. The course was known for being tough, and I soon found out why. The material was complex, and I struggled to keep up with the pace of the lectures. I remember feeling overwhelmed as I tried to understand the intricacies of balance sheets and income statements. Despite spending hours studying, I did not perform well on the first exam. It was a wake-up call for me, and I knew I had to find a way to overcome this challenge.

The first step I took was to seek help. I realized that I could not do it all on my own, and I needed to use the resources available to me. I started attending office hours regularly. My professor was incredibly helpful and patient, explaining concepts in a way that made them easier to grasp. I also formed a study group with some classmates. We met weekly to go over the material, discuss any difficulties we were having, and quiz each other. This collaborative learning environment made a significant difference, as it allowed me to see different perspectives and understand the material more deeply.

In addition to seeking help from others, I also had to change my study habits. I realized that cramming the night before an exam was not going to work in college. I began to set a regular study schedule, dedicating specific times each day to review my notes and work on practice problems. This consistency helped reinforce my understanding and made me feel more prepared for exams. I also started using online resources, such as accounting tutorials and practice quizzes, to supplement my learning.

Another important aspect of overcoming this challenge was managing my time effectively. With multiple courses and assignments to juggle, time management became crucial. I started using a planner to keep track of deadlines and prioritize my tasks. By breaking down larger assignments into smaller, manageable tasks, I was able to avoid the last-minute rush and reduce my stress levels. This approach not only helped me stay on top of my accounting class but also improved my performance in my other courses.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a significant improvement in my understanding of accounting concepts. I started to enjoy the subject more as I gained confidence in my abilities. When the time came for the second exam, I felt much more prepared. My hard work paid off, and I scored significantly higher than on the first exam. It was a proud moment for me, and it reinforced the importance of perseverance and seeking help when needed.

Reflecting on this experience, I learned valuable lessons that have shaped my approach to academics. I realized that it is okay to struggle and ask for help. No one has all the answers, and collaboration can lead to a deeper understanding. I also learned the importance of adapting my study habits to meet the demands of college coursework. These lessons have not only helped me succeed in my accounting major but have also prepared me for future challenges.

As a Black man in college, I am aware of the importance of representation and the need to overcome obstacles. This experience taught me resilience and determination, qualities that I believe will serve me well in my academic and professional journey. I am proud of my progress, and I am committed to continuing to work hard and make the most of the opportunities available to me.

In conclusion, my challenging experience in my Introduction to Financial Accounting class taught me the value of seeking help, adapting my study habits, and managing my time effectively. By overcoming this challenge, I have gained confidence in my ability to tackle difficult subjects and have set a strong foundation for my future studies. I am grateful for the support I received and am motivated to continue striving for excellence in my academic pursuits.