Challenges faced by Destinee

Challenges faced by Destinee - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Destinee Bailey, and I am a rising freshman at Georgia Southern University, majoring in Biology. As I prepare to start this new chapter, I reflect on the academic challenges I have faced and how they have shaped me into the person I am today. One particular experience stands out, and it taught me the value of perseverance and determination.

During my junior year of high school, I encountered a significant challenge in my Zoology class. Science has always fascinated me, and I was excited to dive deeper into the subject. However, I quickly realized that Zoology was not as straightforward as I had anticipated. The concepts were complex, and balancing chemical equations felt like deciphering a foreign language. Despite my enthusiasm, I struggled to grasp the material, and my grades began to reflect my difficulties.

This was a tough pill to swallow. I had always been a diligent student, and seeing my grades slip was disheartening. I knew I had to find a way to overcome this obstacle, not only for the sake of my GPA but also to prove to myself that I could tackle challenging subjects. I did not want to give up on a subject that was so closely tied to my passion for Biology.

The first step I took was reaching out for help. I realized that trying to tackle this challenge alone was not working, so I approached my Zoology teacher after class. I explained my struggles and asked for guidance. My teacher was understanding and supportive, offering to meet with me for extra help sessions. These sessions were incredibly beneficial, as they allowed me to ask questions in a one-on-one setting and receive personalized explanations.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We met regularly to review material, work through problems, and quiz each other. This collaborative approach was a game-changer. Not only did it provide different perspectives on the material, but it also created a supportive environment where we could motivate each other. I learned that sometimes, the key to overcoming a challenge is not just hard work, but also teamwork.

Another strategy I employed was changing my study habits. I realized that my previous methods were not effective for this subject, so I experimented with different techniques. I started using flashcards for memorization, watched online tutorials for visual explanations, and practiced problems until I felt confident. I also set specific goals for each study session, which helped me stay focused and track my progress.

As I dedicated more time and effort to understanding Zoology, I began to see improvement. The concepts that once seemed impossible started to make sense, and my grades gradually improved. This experience taught me an important lesson: persistence pays off. It reinforced the idea that challenges are not insurmountable obstacles but opportunities for growth.

By the end of the semester, I had not only improved my grade but also gained a deeper appreciation for the subject. This experience strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in the sciences and reminded me that the path to success is often paved with perseverance and resilience.

Looking back, I am grateful for the challenges I faced in Zoology. They taught me the importance of seeking help when needed, the power of collaboration, and the value of adapting my strategies to overcome obstacles. These lessons will undoubtedly serve me well as I embark on my college journey at Georgia Southern University.

As I prepare to major in Biology, I am excited to apply the skills and lessons I have learned to my future studies. I know that college will present its own set of challenges, but I am confident that with determination and a willingness to seek support, I can overcome them. My experience with Zoology has shown me that I am capable of tackling difficult subjects and that perseverance is key to achieving my goals.

In conclusion, the academic challenge I faced in Zoology was a pivotal moment in my educational journey. It taught me valuable lessons about persistence, collaboration, and adaptability. These lessons have prepared me for the challenges I will face in college and beyond. I am eager to continue learning and growing as I pursue my passion for Biology, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story through this scholarship contest.