Academic challenges by Brandon

Academic challenges by Brandon - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I first started my journey in college as a Nursing major, I knew it would be demanding, but I did not anticipate how challenging it would be to balance the rigorous coursework with my personal life. One particular semester stands out as an academic hurdle that tested my resilience and determination.

As a sophomore, I was enrolled in Anatomy and Physiology, a course notorious for its complexity and heavy workload. The subject matter was fascinating, but the sheer volume of information was overwhelming. I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the lectures, the dense textbook readings, and the intricate details required to understand the human body's systems. On top of that, I was working part-time to support myself financially, leaving me with little time to study.

The first few weeks of the semester were a blur of stress and exhaustion. I was falling behind, and it showed in my grades. I received a low score on my first exam, which was a wake-up call. I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed in this course and maintain my GPA.

The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my professor, who was incredibly supportive. She encouraged me to attend office hours and ask questions, no matter how small they seemed. This was a turning point for me. By engaging directly with my professor, I gained a deeper understanding of the material and learned how to focus on the key concepts that would be most important for exams.

Additionally, I joined a study group with some of my classmates. This group became an invaluable resource. We met twice a week, and the collaborative environment helped me to see things from different perspectives. Explaining concepts to others reinforced my understanding, and my classmates were able to clarify points that I found confusing. The camaraderie and shared goal of mastering the material made the study sessions both productive and enjoyable.

Time management was another crucial aspect I needed to improve. I started using a planner to organize my days, blocking out specific times for study, work, and self-care. This structured approach helped me to prioritize my tasks and reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. I also learned to be more disciplined with my study habits, focusing on active learning techniques like summarizing information in my own words and using flashcards for memorization.

Despite these efforts, there were still moments of doubt and frustration. However, I reminded myself of my long-term goal: to become a nurse and make a difference in people’s lives. This goal kept me motivated and pushed me to persevere through the difficult times.

As the semester progressed, I began to see the fruits of my labor. My grades improved, and I gained confidence in my ability to tackle challenging material. I ended the semester with a much better understanding of Anatomy and Physiology, and importantly, I had developed skills that would serve me well throughout my academic career and beyond.

Reflecting on this experience, I realize that overcoming academic challenges is not just about improving grades. It is about learning how to adapt, seek help, and find strategies that work for you. This experience taught me the importance of resilience, the value of community, and the power of determination.

As a Black man pursuing a career in nursing, I am aware of the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with this path. This experience has reinforced my commitment to my studies and my future profession. I am determined to be a role model for others and to contribute positively to the healthcare field, where diversity and empathy are crucial.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming this academic challenge has been a formative part of my college experience. It has equipped me with the tools to handle future obstacles and has strengthened my resolve to achieve my goals. I am grateful for the support I received from my professor and peers, and I am proud of the progress I have made. This journey has taught me that with perseverance and the right support, I can overcome any challenge that comes my way.