Challenging of Academic Experience I faced and how to overcame it. by Bright

Challenging of Academic Experience I faced and how to overcame it. by Bright - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Bright Abugri, and I am currently pursuing a graduate degree in Health/Medical Technology at St. Cloud State University. As I reflect on my academic journey, one challenging experience stands out, shaping not only my approach to learning but also my determination to succeed in the field of health and medical technology.

During my first year of graduate school, I enrolled in a course that was notorious among students for its difficulty: Advanced Biomedical Systems. The course was essential for my major, focusing on complex topics like medical imaging technologies, biostatistics, and the integration of medical devices. Initially, I was excited about the opportunity to dive deeper into these subjects, but I soon realized that the workload and the level of understanding required were far beyond what I had previously encountered.

The first few weeks were overwhelming. The lectures were intense, packed with information, and the pace was relentless. I found myself struggling to keep up with the material, which was both technically challenging and conceptually dense. It was not long before I began to doubt my abilities, questioning if I was truly cut out for this path. I felt like I was falling behind, and the thought of not meeting the expectations I had set for myself was disheartening.

However, I knew that giving up was not an option. I had chosen this field because of my passion for health technology and my desire to contribute to advancements that could improve people's lives. With this in mind, I decided to tackle the challenge head-on. One of the first steps I took was to seek help from my professors and peers. I realized that I could not do it alone, and reaching out for support was crucial. I attended office hours regularly, asking questions and seeking clarification on topics I found difficult. My professors were incredibly supportive, providing additional resources and guidance.

I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were facing similar challenges. We met regularly to discuss the material, share notes, and work through complex problems together. This collaborative approach not only helped me better understand the content but also provided a sense of community and encouragement. We motivated each other to keep pushing forward, celebrating small victories along the way.

In addition to seeking external support, I had to make significant changes to my study habits. I realized that my previous methods were not effective for the level of detail and understanding required in this course. I began to allocate more time for review and practice, breaking down the material into manageable sections and focusing on one topic at a time. I also made use of online resources, such as educational videos and forums, to supplement my learning.

One particular strategy that proved invaluable was teaching the material to others. By explaining complex concepts to my study group or even to myself, I was able to identify gaps in my understanding and reinforce my knowledge. This approach not only improved my comprehension but also boosted my confidence in handling the material.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a gradual improvement in my performance. The concepts that once seemed insurmountable began to make sense, and my grades reflected my hard work and determination. By the end of the course, I not only passed but also gained a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of biomedical systems. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and the power of collaboration.

Overcoming this academic challenge has had a lasting impact on my educational journey. It reinforced my belief in my capabilities and reminded me of the importance of seeking help and supporting others. It also strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in health and medical technology, knowing that I have the resilience to face obstacles and the drive to continue learning and growing.

In conclusion, the challenges I faced in the Advanced Biomedical Systems course were a pivotal moment in my academic career. They taught me valuable lessons about persistence, teamwork, and the importance of embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. As I continue my studies at St. Cloud State University, I carry these lessons with me, confident in my ability to overcome future obstacles and contribute meaningfully to the field of health technology.