Essay by Cadonald

Essay by Cadonald - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Cadonald Gelin, and I am a Management major at St. Thomas University. I want to share a challenging academic experience that I faced and how I managed to overcome it, as it has been a crucial part of my journey and has taught me lessons I hold dear.

During my sophomore year, I found myself in a difficult situation with my Business Statistics class. This course was vital for my major, but it was unlike anything I had encountered before. The complex statistical concepts, combined with the pressure to maintain a solid GPA, felt overwhelming from the start.

In the first few weeks, I quickly realized that my usual study methods were not enough. I struggled with understanding the formulas and applying them to real-world scenarios, which was essential for assignments and exams. As my grades started slipping, I felt a growing sense of panic. I knew I had to find a way to turn things around if I wanted to succeed.

The first step was admitting that I needed help, which was not easy for me. I had always been hesitant to ask for assistance, fearing it might make me look incapable. However, I mustered the courage to reach out to my professor during office hours. To my relief, he was incredibly understanding and encouraged me to see asking for help as a strength. He took the time to explain the difficult concepts and offered additional resources to aid my understanding.

I also joined a study group with a few classmates, which turned out to be a lifeline. Working with peers allowed me to see different perspectives and approaches to the problems we were tackling. We met regularly to review notes, discuss assignments, and prepare for exams. This collaborative atmosphere not only helped me improve my grades but also boosted my confidence in the subject.

Desperate to understand the material better, I turned to online resources like video tutorials and forums where students and professionals discussed statistical problems. These resources helped me visualize the concepts and offered explanations that sometimes clicked better than the textbook.

Time management became critical. With a full course load and other commitments, I had to learn how to prioritize my tasks effectively. I started using a planner to schedule dedicated study times for Business Statistics, ensuring that I was consistently reviewing material rather than cramming before exams. This discipline helped me stay on top of the coursework and reduced the stress of last-minute studying.

Gradually, I began to see improvements. My grades started to rise, and I felt more comfortable with the material. By the end of the course, I had not only passed but had achieved a grade that I was proud of. This experience taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of using available resources.

Overcoming the challenges in Business Statistics was a turning point in my academic journey. It reinforced my belief in resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed. It also taught me that collaboration and effective time management are essential for success in any field.

This experience has left a lasting impact on how I approach learning. I am now more proactive in seeking help and am not afraid to admit when I do not understand something. I have carried the skills I developed during this time into other areas of my studies, which has improved my overall academic performance.

In conclusion, facing and overcoming the challenges in my Business Statistics class taught me invaluable lessons that extend beyond the classroom. It was a humbling experience that reminded me of the importance of determination, resourcefulness, and collaboration. As I continue my journey at St. Thomas University, I am committed to applying these lessons to both my academic and personal life, striving to grow and succeed in every endeavor I undertake. I hope to receive this scholarship to further support my education and continue building on the foundation I have worked so hard to establish.