The struggles from my sophomore year by Conner James

The struggles from my sophomore year by Conner James - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

During my sophomore year, I faced a particularly challenging academic experience in a physics course. The subject had always intrigued me, but I struggled to grasp the mathematical concepts underpinning key principles. Despite spending hours reviewing lecture notes and solving practice problems, I consistently underperformed on assignments and quizzes. It was disheartening and began to affect my confidence.

Realizing I needed a different approach, I sought help from my professor during office hours and joined a study group with peers who excelled in the class. These discussions helped me see the material from multiple perspectives. Additionally, I found online resources and video tutorials that broke down the topics into simpler terms. By practicing consistently and asking questions without hesitation, I started to connect the dots.

The turning point came during a mid-term project, where we had to apply physics concepts to a real-world scenario. Collaborating with my group, I not only contributed ideas but also gained practical insight into the subject. My final exam grade reflected significant improvement, and I finished the course with a sense of accomplishment.

This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, seeking support, and approaching challenges with an open mind. It reinforced my belief that growth often stems from the toughest obstacles.