Overwhelmed but by success by Chawana

Overwhelmed but by success by Chawana - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a computer science major with a focus on cybersecurity at Grambling State University, one of the most challenging academic experiences I’ve faced was navigating the stress and pressure of finals week. Last semester, I encountered an especially difficult situation during my final exams, which tested both my technical abilities and my time management skills. The pressure of balancing multiple final projects and exams, especially in courses that required deep understanding of complex programming concepts, almost became overwhelming.

The final exam in my advanced programming course was particularly daunting. The material was challenging, involving multiple coding languages and algorithms that I had only begun to grasp. With the added pressure of other exams and assignments, it felt like I was facing an insurmountable mountain of work. Initially, I felt like I was drowning in deadlines and material, unsure how I would be able to complete everything on time and to the best of my ability.

However, I realized that the key to overcoming this challenge was not in working harder but in working smarter. I began by organizing my time more effectively, creating a strict study schedule that broke down tasks into manageable portions. I reached out to my professors and peers for help in understanding the more difficult concepts and spent additional hours practicing coding problems. Most importantly, I took care of my mental health by ensuring I got enough rest and kept stress at bay with small breaks.

By adopting these strategies, I not only completed my finals but performed better than I had expected. This experience taught me the importance of resilience, time management, and seeking support when needed. It reinforced my belief that challenges can be overcome with the right approach, and I now feel more equipped to face future obstacles in my academic and professional journey. Winning the Varsity Tutors Scholarship would allow me to continue my education with the same perseverance and determination that helped me overcome this challenge.