My challenges by Clarissa

My challenges by Clarissa - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I think back on my academic journey, one of the most challenging experiences I faced was during my sophomore year at Cloudland High School. It was a time when I was juggling multiple advanced placement classes, and the pressure was mounting. I had always been a dedicated student, but the workload was heavier than anything I had encountered before. Balancing these classes while maintaining my GPA was daunting, and I found myself struggling to keep up.

The challenge was not just about the volume of work but also the complexity of the subjects. I was taking AP Biology and AP Chemistry simultaneously, both of which required a deep understanding of intricate concepts and a lot of memorization. The labs, reports, and exams demanded a level of focus and discipline that I had not yet developed. There were nights when I stayed up late, trying to make sense of the material, but I still felt like I was falling behind.

The turning point came when I realized that I needed to change my approach. I could not continue to tackle these subjects the way I had approached previous classes. I needed a strategy that would allow me to manage my time better and understand the content more deeply. I started by organizing my study schedule. I created a weekly planner to allocate specific times for each subject, ensuring that I dedicated enough hours to the ones that were most challenging.

I also reached out for help, which was a significant step for me. I had always been independent in my studies, but I recognized that collaborating with others could be beneficial. I formed a study group with classmates who were also taking the same AP courses. We met twice a week to review material, discuss difficult concepts, and quiz each other. This not only helped me grasp the subjects better but also provided a support system that made the process less isolating.

In addition to the study group, I sought help from my teachers. I scheduled time to meet with them after school to go over topics I found particularly difficult. They were incredibly supportive and offered additional resources and explanations that made a big difference in my understanding. Their encouragement helped boost my confidence and reassured me that I was capable of mastering the material.

Another key element in overcoming this academic challenge was learning how to manage stress. I realized that my anxiety about the workload was affecting my ability to focus and retain information. To address this, I started incorporating mindfulness practices into my daily routine. Simple breathing exercises and short meditation sessions helped me stay calm and centered, especially before exams or when I felt overwhelmed by assignments.

Through these efforts, I gradually began to see improvement. My grades in both AP Biology and AP Chemistry started to rise, and I felt more in control of my academic responsibilities. The experience taught me valuable lessons about time management, the importance of seeking help, and the power of perseverance. I learned that challenges are opportunities for growth and that with determination and the right support, I can overcome obstacles.

This experience has also reinforced my passion for pursuing a career in nursing. The dedication and problem-solving skills I developed will be essential in the healthcare field, where I will need to manage complex information and work collaboratively with others. I am excited about the prospect of continuing my education at Northeast State Community College, where I can further hone these skills and prepare for a future in nursing.

In conclusion, facing this academic challenge was a pivotal moment in my high school career. It pushed me to adapt, seek support, and develop strategies that will serve me well in college and beyond. I am grateful for the experience because it has made me more resilient and prepared me for the demands of higher education. I am confident that the lessons I learned will help me succeed in my future studies and in my career as a nurse, where I hope to make a positive impact on the lives of others.