Navigating the storm: Overcoming academic challenges through resilience and strength by Carla

Navigating the storm: Overcoming academic challenges through resilience and strength by Carla - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced many challenges, but one of the most significant academic hurdles was during my sophomore year when I took on the daunting task of learning coding for the first time. As someone who is passionate about technology and aspires to major in UX/Technical Design, I knew that understanding coding was essential. However, I quickly realized that diving into the world of programming was not going to be as straightforward as I had imagined.

The challenge began with my first computer science class. The language we were learning was Python, and at first, it felt like I was trying to understand a foreign language without a translator. Concepts like loops, variables, and functions were completely new to me, and I struggled to keep up with the pace of the class. My initial excitement turned into frustration as I found myself spending hours on assignments that my classmates seemed to complete with ease.

My grades in the class started to reflect my struggles. For someone who had always maintained a strong GPA, seeing lower scores was disheartening. I knew I had to find a way to overcome this obstacle if I wanted to pursue a career in technology. Giving up was not an option, so I decided to tackle the problem head-on.

The first step I took was seeking help from my teacher. I stayed after class to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the material. My teacher was incredibly supportive and provided additional resources, which helped me grasp the basics more effectively. I also formed a study group with a few classmates who were more experienced in coding. They were patient and explained concepts in ways that were easier for me to understand.

In addition to seeking help from others, I dedicated extra time outside of school to practice coding. I discovered online platforms like Codecademy and Khan Academy, which offered interactive lessons and exercises. These resources allowed me to learn at my own pace and revisit topics I found challenging. I set small, achievable goals for myself each week, which gradually built my confidence and skills.

Another important strategy was changing my mindset. I realized that I needed to embrace the learning process, including the mistakes and setbacks. Instead of viewing errors as failures, I started to see them as opportunities to learn and improve. This shift in perspective was crucial in helping me stay motivated and resilient.

Over time, my hard work paid off. I began to see improvements in my understanding of coding, and my grades in the class started to rise. By the end of the semester, I had not only caught up with my classmates but also developed a genuine interest in programming. This experience taught me the value of perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed.

Reflecting on this challenging academic experience, I am grateful for the lessons it taught me. It reinforced my passion for technology and solidified my desire to pursue a major in UX/Technical Design. I learned that challenges are not roadblocks but rather stepping stones that can lead to growth and success.

In conclusion, overcoming the challenge of learning coding was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me resilience, the importance of seeking support, and the power of a positive mindset. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well in my future academic and professional endeavors. I am committed to pursuing my passion for technology and am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.