Don’t judge by the Grade Point Advantage by Carissa

Don’t judge by the Grade Point Advantage by Carissa - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Carissa Walker, and I am currently a senior at Hillcrest High School. I am writing to share a challenging academic experience I faced and how I managed to overcome it. This experience taught me a lot about resilience, determination, and the importance of seeking help when needed.

Throughout my high school years, I have faced various academic challenges, but none quite as daunting as struggling with my overall GPA. My current GPA is 1.8, which is below what I hoped to achieve. It has been a constant source of stress and worry for me, as I know how important it is for college applications and my future dreams. This challenge has been particularly difficult because I have always wanted to succeed academically and make my family proud.

The struggle with my GPA began early in high school. I found it hard to keep up with the workload and often felt overwhelmed by the expectations placed on me. As a Black woman, I also felt the pressure to break stereotypes and prove that I could excel in my studies. However, despite my efforts, my grades did not reflect my potential, and I often felt discouraged.

One of the main reasons for my low GPA was my difficulty in managing time effectively. I found it hard to balance schoolwork with other responsibilities and activities. I also struggled with some subjects, particularly math and science, which affected my overall performance. I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to improve my academic standing. At my school we didn’t have access to a Read or math teacher in the 11th so I were behind and below my level so when they teacher come the 12th grade year we would be behind because we didn’t learn or we are not on the academic level I’m supposed to be on .

The turning point came when I decided to seek help and make a plan to address my challenges. I started by talking to my teachers and asking for their guidance. I explained my situation and asked for advice on how to improve my grades. They were supportive and offered valuable tips on studying more effectively and managing my time better.

I also reached out to my school counselor, who helped me create a study schedule that allowed me to focus on my weaker subjects while still keeping up with my other classes. This schedule included dedicated time for homework, studying, and even breaks to ensure I did not burn out. Having a structured plan made a significant difference, as it helped me stay organized and on track.

In addition to seeking help from teachers and counselors, I joined a study group with some classmates. Working with others allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material and learn from my peers. We supported each other by sharing notes, discussing difficult topics, and preparing for exams together. This collaborative approach made studying more enjoyable and less intimidating.

Furthermore, I took advantage of online resources and tutoring services to strengthen my understanding of challenging subjects. Watching educational videos and practicing problems online helped reinforce what I learned in class. I also attended after-school tutoring sessions, where I received one-on-one assistance with specific topics I struggled with.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of perseverance and not being afraid to ask for help. It was not easy to admit that I was struggling, but reaching out for support was crucial in overcoming my academic challenges. I realized that everyone faces difficulties at some point, and it is okay to lean on others for guidance and encouragement.

While I am still working to improve my GPA, I am proud of the progress I have made. My grades have started to show improvement, and I feel more confident in my abilities. This experience taught me that setbacks do not define me, and with determination and the right support, I can overcome any obstacle.

In conclusion, facing the challenge of a low GPA has been a significant learning experience for me. It pushed me to seek help, develop better study habits, and find new ways to approach my education. I am committed to continuing this journey and achieving my academic goals. I believe that this experience has prepared me for future challenges and has shown me the value of persistence and resilience.

Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and hope to inspire others who may be facing similar challenges.