A long journey by Cameron

A long journey by Cameron - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I look back at my academic journey, one particular challenge stands out as a turning point for me. It was during my sophomore year of high school when I encountered a subject that seemed almost insurmountable: advanced algebra. Math had always been a subject I enjoyed, but this class was different. The concepts were more abstract, and the pace was much faster than anything I had experienced before. I found myself struggling to keep up, and my grades reflected it. This was the first time I faced such a significant academic hurdle, and it was daunting.

In the beginning, I felt overwhelmed and frustrated. I was used to understanding things after a few tries, but this time, it seemed like no matter how hard I worked, the results were not showing. I remember getting my first test back and seeing a score that was much lower than I had ever received. It was a wake-up call that I needed to change my approach if I was going to succeed.

The first step I took was to acknowledge that I needed help. It was not easy to admit that I could not do it on my own, but I knew it was necessary. I started by talking to my teacher, who was incredibly supportive. She suggested that I come to her office hours for extra help. I took her advice and began attending regularly. During these sessions, she helped me break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable parts. This approach made a big difference and helped me start to grasp the concepts more clearly.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I formed a study group with a few classmates. We met twice a week to go over homework and prepare for upcoming tests. This collaboration was invaluable because it allowed us to learn from each other. Sometimes, a classmate could explain a concept in a way that made more sense to me than the textbook or even the teacher's explanation. Plus, studying with others kept me motivated and accountable.

Another strategy that helped me overcome this challenge was changing my study habits. I realized that cramming the night before a test was not effective, especially for a subject as demanding as advanced algebra. Instead, I started setting aside time each day to review my notes and practice problems. This consistent practice helped reinforce what I learned in class and improved my understanding over time.

I also made use of online resources. There are countless educational videos and tutorials available that can explain math concepts in different ways. I found that watching these videos provided me with additional perspectives and strategies for solving problems. This extra layer of learning was crucial in helping me overcome the difficulties I faced in the classroom.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of perseverance and resilience. There were times when I felt like giving up, but I reminded myself why I wanted to succeed. I knew that doing well in this class was important for my future goals, especially since I am considering majors like accounting, finance, and electrical engineering, all of which require a strong foundation in math.

By the end of the semester, my hard work paid off. My grades improved significantly, and I felt a sense of accomplishment that I had not experienced before. More importantly, I gained confidence in my ability to tackle difficult subjects. This experience taught me that challenges are opportunities in disguise. They push us to grow and develop skills that we might not have otherwise discovered.

Looking ahead to college, I know that I will face more challenging courses, especially as I explore fields like business, sports management, and animal sciences. However, I am no longer intimidated by the prospect of difficult classes. Instead, I feel equipped with the tools and mindset needed to overcome any academic obstacles that come my way.

In conclusion, the challenge of advanced algebra was a pivotal moment in my academic life. It taught me the value of seeking help, working collaboratively, and maintaining consistent study habits. These lessons have prepared me for future challenges and have strengthened my resolve to succeed in whatever I choose to pursue. I am grateful for the experience because it showed me that with determination and the right strategies, I can overcome any academic hurdle.