Black girl in science by briana

Black girl in science by briana - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Briana White, and I am a junior at N Garland High School. I have always been passionate about science, which is why I plan to major in Biology and Chemistry in college. However, my journey has not been without its challenges, particularly in my academic life.

One of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my sophomore year in high school. I was taking a Chemistry class, and it was one of the most difficult subjects I had ever encountered. I struggled to grasp the concepts, and my grades reflected my difficulties. I was discouraged and felt like I was falling behind my classmates. My GPA was not where I wanted it to be, and I knew I had to take action if I wanted to pursue my dream of studying science in college.

The first step I took to overcome this challenge was to acknowledge that I needed help. I reached out to my Chemistry teacher, who was understanding and supportive. She encouraged me to attend after-school tutoring sessions and offered to help me one-on-one whenever I needed it. This was a turning point for me because it taught me the importance of seeking help and using the resources available to me.

In addition to tutoring, I started forming study groups with my classmates. We would meet regularly to review the material, work on practice problems, and help each other understand difficult concepts. This collaborative approach not only improved my understanding of Chemistry but also showed me the value of teamwork and learning from others. I realized that I was not alone in my struggles, and together, we could overcome the obstacles we faced.

I also began to change my study habits. I set aside specific times each day to focus on Chemistry, breaking down the material into smaller, more manageable parts. I used flashcards, online resources, and educational videos to reinforce my learning. By doing a little bit each day, I gradually built a stronger foundation in the subject.

Another important aspect of overcoming this challenge was developing a growth mindset. I learned to view my struggles as opportunities to learn and grow, rather than as failures. I reminded myself that it was okay to make mistakes as long as I learned from them and continued to improve. This shift in perspective helped me stay motivated and persistent, even when things got tough.

Through hard work, determination, and the support of my teacher and peers, I was able to improve my understanding of Chemistry significantly. My grades began to improve, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. This experience taught me that I am capable of overcoming challenges if I am willing to put in the effort and seek help when needed.

Looking back, I am grateful for the difficulties I faced in Chemistry because they taught me valuable lessons that I will carry with me into college and beyond. I learned the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of adversity. These skills will be essential as I continue my education and pursue a career in science.

In conclusion, my challenging experience with Chemistry was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It pushed me to grow and develop skills that will serve me well in the future. I am now more determined than ever to succeed in my studies and achieve my goals. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am confident that I can overcome any challenges that come my way.