Dave Singh- Varsity tutors essay by Dave

Dave Singh- Varsity tutors essay by Dave - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have always been driven by a strong interest in finance. Numbers and their potential to tell stories about businesses and economies have always intrigued me. However, one of the most challenging academic experiences I faced was during my junior year in an advanced placement statistics class. This class was crucial for me as it was closely related to my intended major in finance, but it was also the most demanding course I had ever taken.

From the start, I found the concepts in statistics to be complex and abstract. Topics like probability distributions, hypothesis testing, and regression analysis felt like an entirely new language. Despite my strong academic record and a GPA of 4, I struggled to grasp the material. This was a new and unsettling experience for me, as I was used to understanding and excelling in my classes.

The first few weeks were particularly tough. I remember receiving my first quiz back and seeing a grade that was far below my expectations. It was a wake-up call. I realized that my usual study habits were not enough for this class. I felt overwhelmed and worried that I would not be able to keep up, which could impact my chances of getting into the finance programs at Hofstra University, Rochester Institute of Technology, or Adelphi University.

Determined to overcome this challenge, I decided to change my approach. First, I sought help from my teacher. I started attending extra help sessions after school, where I could ask questions and work through problems at my own pace. My teacher was incredibly supportive and patient, breaking down complex topics into simpler parts that I could understand. This personalized attention made a significant difference.

I also formed a study group with some classmates. We met regularly to review material, discuss difficult concepts, and practice problems together. This collaborative environment was beneficial because it allowed me to see different perspectives and approaches to solving statistical problems. Explaining concepts to others also reinforced my own understanding and boosted my confidence.

Additionally, I utilized online resources. I watched tutorial videos and used educational websites that offered practice problems and step-by-step solutions. This extra practice was crucial for reinforcing what I learned in class and from my study group. I also started relating the concepts to real-world applications in finance, which made them more interesting and relevant to me.

Over time, my efforts began to pay off. I started to see improvement in my grades and, more importantly, in my understanding of the material. The concepts that once seemed insurmountable gradually became manageable. By the end of the semester, I was not only keeping up with the class but was also able to help my peers who were struggling.

This experience taught me several valuable lessons. First, it reinforced the importance of perseverance and adaptability. When faced with a challenge, I learned that it is essential to be open to changing strategies and seeking help. It also highlighted the value of collaboration and peer support in overcoming difficulties.

Moreover, this experience deepened my interest in finance. Understanding statistics is fundamental to analyzing financial markets and making informed decisions. The challenge I faced and overcame in my statistics class gave me a sense of accomplishment and confidence in my ability to tackle difficult subjects, which will be invaluable in my future studies and career.

As I look forward to attending college and pursuing a major in finance, I am grateful for the lessons learned from this challenging academic experience. It has prepared me to face future challenges with determination and a proactive approach. I am excited to bring this mindset to my studies at Hofstra University, Rochester Institute of Technology, or Adelphi University, where I hope to further develop my skills and knowledge in finance.

In conclusion, the struggle I faced in my statistics class was a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It taught me resilience, the importance of seeking support, and the value of hard work. These lessons have not only helped me overcome a specific academic challenge but have also prepared me for the demands of higher education and a career in finance. I am confident that the skills and mindset I have developed will enable me to succeed in college and beyond.