Reaching Out by Donald

Reaching Out by Donald - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Donald Horton III, and I am a high school senior looking forward to attending North Carolina Central University. One significant academic challenge I faced was during my junior year in math class. Math has never been my strongest subject, and this particular class was especially difficult. As the semester progressed, my grades began to slip, and I felt overwhelmed. I worried about how this would affect my college applications and future plans.

Initially, I thought I could handle it alone by dedicating more time to studying. Despite spending hours with my textbooks, I made little progress and felt increasingly discouraged. It was hard to admit that I needed help, but that realization was the first step to overcoming this challenge. I reached out to my teacher, who was very understanding and offered extra help after school. These sessions allowed me to review the material at my own pace, which was incredibly helpful.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I joined a study group with classmates who were doing well in the class. Their support and different perspectives helped me understand the material better. They explained concepts in ways that clicked for me, and I realized the value of learning from peers. This collaboration was a turning point, showing me that learning does not have to be a solitary journey.

Moreover, I took advantage of online resources, finding websites and videos that explained concepts in ways that made sense to me. I discovered that being resourceful and proactive was key to finding solutions to my struggles. The internet provided a wealth of information, and I learned to filter through it to find what worked best for me.

Gradually, my understanding improved, and my grades started to rise. It was not an overnight change, but I learned valuable lessons about perseverance and seeking help. This experience taught me that struggling does not mean you are not capable; it just means you need the right tools and support. I also learned the importance of resilience and adapting to new ways of learning.

Now, as I prepare for college, I feel better equipped to handle future academic challenges. I plan to pursue majors like Accounting, Business Administration, and Finance, where I know I will face new hurdles. However, I am confident in my ability to overcome them, thanks to the skills and mindset I developed during this experience. I am grateful for the support I received from my teacher and classmates and proud of the progress I made through my own efforts.

This experience has motivated me to keep pushing forward and embrace challenges rather than shy away from them. I have realized that challenges are opportunities for growth and learning. I am excited about the opportunities ahead at North Carolina Central University, where I will continue to apply the lessons I have learned.

In conclusion, facing this academic challenge taught me the importance of perseverance, asking for help, and using available resources. These lessons will guide me in my academic journey and beyond. I am eager to take on the next chapter of my education, knowing that I have the resilience and determination to succeed.