Making an impact by Courtney

Making an impact by Courtney - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a first-year college student at Walters State Community College, embarking on my pre-med journey has been both exhilarating and daunting. The excitement of pursuing a career in medicine is something that has driven me since I first imagined myself in a white coat, helping patients and making a difference. However, the path to becoming a doctor is not without its challenges, and one particular academic experience tested my resolve and taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and adaptability.

During my first semester, I enrolled in a rigorous biology course that was a prerequisite for my major. Having always been passionate about science, I was eager to dive into the material. However, I quickly realized that college-level coursework was a significant step up from high school. The pace was faster, the content more complex, and the expectations much higher. I found myself struggling to keep up with the dense reading material, intricate lab work, and challenging exams. It was a humbling experience, as I had always been a diligent student, but now I was facing the possibility of not meeting the standards I had set for myself.

The first major hurdle came with the midterm exam. Despite my best efforts to prepare, I did not perform as well as I had hoped. Receiving a grade lower than what I was accustomed to was disheartening, and I began to doubt my abilities and whether I was truly cut out for a career in medicine. It was a pivotal moment where I had to decide whether to let this setback define my path or use it as an opportunity to grow.

Determined to overcome this challenge, I took a step back and evaluated my study habits and strategies. I realized that my approach needed to change. I began by seeking help from my professor, who was incredibly supportive and provided guidance on how to better understand the material. I also joined a study group with classmates, which proved invaluable. Collaborating with others allowed me to gain different perspectives on the topics we were covering and helped reinforce my understanding.

Additionally, I made use of the resources available on campus, such as tutoring services and workshops on effective study techniques. These resources provided me with new tools to approach my coursework, and I started to see improvements in my comprehension and retention of the material. I learned the importance of active learning, such as engaging with the content through discussions and practice problems, rather than passively reading and memorizing.

Time management became another key focus. Balancing coursework, labs, and my personal life required a more structured schedule. I began to prioritize my tasks and set specific goals for each study session, which helped me stay organized and reduce stress. By breaking down the material into manageable parts, I was able to tackle the course content more effectively and gradually build my confidence.

As the semester progressed, I noticed a significant improvement in my performance. When the final exam approached, I felt more prepared and confident in my abilities. The hard work and adjustments paid off, and I achieved a grade that reflected my dedication and growth. More importantly, I gained a deeper understanding of the subject, which reinforced my passion for the field of medicine.

This challenging academic experience taught me that setbacks are not the end but rather opportunities to learn and adapt. It reinforced the importance of seeking help, collaborating with others, and utilizing available resources. Most importantly, it reminded me that perseverance and a willingness to change are crucial in overcoming obstacles.

As I continue my journey in the pre-med program, I carry these lessons with me. I know that the road ahead will have its share of challenges, but I am better equipped to face them. My experience in the biology course has strengthened my resolve and commitment to becoming a doctor. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow from this challenge, and I am excited to continue pursuing my dream of making a positive impact in the world of medicine.