Struggling with Arabic by Camila

Struggling with Arabic by Camila - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Camila De La Luz, and I am a junior at Washington Latin Pcs - Upper School. I am excited to share my story about a challenging academic experience I faced and how I managed to overcome it. This experience taught me valuable lessons that I hope will serve me well as I pursue my dream of studying law or criminal justice at a university like UT Austin, UCLA, or Cornell.

The challenge I faced began in my sophomore year when I enrolled in an Arabic language course. I have always been interested in languages, but Arabic was unlike any language I had studied before. The script was entirely different, the sounds were unfamiliar, and the grammar was complex. I found myself struggling to grasp the basics and feeling overwhelmed by the difficulty of the assignments and exams.

At first, this struggle was disheartening. I started to doubt my abilities and wondered if I was cut out for such a demanding course. However, I knew that giving up was not an option. I was determined to succeed, not only to prove to myself that I could handle the challenge but also because I knew that learning Arabic could open doors to understanding diverse cultures and perspectives, which is essential for my future studies in law and criminal justice.

I decided to take a step back and reassess my approach. I realized that I needed to develop better study habits and find more effective ways to manage my time. I began by creating a detailed study schedule, breaking down the material into manageable sections and setting aside specific times each day to focus on Arabic. This helped me stay organized and avoid the last-minute cramming that had been stressing me out.

In addition to improving my time management, I sought help from my teacher and classmates. I started attending after-school tutoring sessions and asked my teacher for feedback on my pronunciation and writing. This was a turning point for me because I realized that I did not have to face this challenge alone. My teacher was incredibly supportive and provided me with valuable insights into how to approach complex language structures and develop stronger communication skills.

I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were also struggling with the course. We met regularly to practice speaking, writing, and reading in Arabic. This collaborative approach not only made studying more enjoyable but also helped me gain new perspectives on the material. I learned that everyone has different strengths, and by working together, we could help each other succeed.

Over time, my hard work and determination began to pay off. My test scores improved, and I started to feel more confident in my abilities. I learned to appreciate the beauty of the Arabic language and how it connects to the cultural understanding I am so passionate about. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, seeking help when needed, and the power of collaboration.

Reflecting on this challenging academic experience, I am grateful for the lessons I learned. It reinforced my belief in the value of education and the importance of pushing myself beyond my comfort zone. I am now more determined than ever to pursue a career in law or criminal justice, where I can use my skills to make a positive impact on society.

As I look ahead to college, I am excited about the opportunities to further explore my interests and continue growing both academically and personally. I know that the challenges I faced in my Arabic class have prepared me for the rigorous coursework I will encounter in university. I am eager to take on new challenges and continue learning, knowing that I have the tools and resilience to overcome any obstacles that come my way.

In conclusion, this experience taught me that challenges are opportunities for growth. By facing them head-on and seeking support from others, I have developed skills that will serve me well in my future academic and professional endeavors. I am confident that my passion for law and criminal justice, combined with the lessons I have learned, will help me succeed in college and beyond. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest.