Overcoming AP by Ella

Overcoming AP by Ella - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Ella Phillips, and I am a senior in high school, currently navigating the exciting yet challenging path toward college. As I reflect on my academic journey, one particular experience stands out as both challenging and transformative. This experience not only tested my resolve but also taught me valuable lessons that I carry with me today.

During my junior year, I enrolled in an advanced placement (AP) English class. I have always enjoyed reading and writing, but this class was on a whole new level of difficulty. The workload was intense, with weekly essays, extensive reading assignments, and in-depth class discussions. Initially, I was excited about the challenge, but as the semester progressed, I started to feel overwhelmed.

The turning point came with a major research paper assignment. The task was to analyze a complex literary work and present a well-argued thesis. I chose a novel that I was passionate about, thinking that my interest would carry me through. However, as I began to dive into the analysis, I found myself struggling to articulate my thoughts and organize them into a coherent argument. My first draft was a mess of ideas, and after receiving feedback from my teacher, I realized I had a lot of work to do.

Feeling discouraged, I knew I had to approach this challenge differently. I started by breaking down the task into smaller, manageable parts. I dedicated time to thoroughly understand the novel, taking detailed notes and annotating key passages. I also researched various literary criticisms to gain different perspectives, which helped me refine my thesis.

Next, I reached out for help. I scheduled a meeting with my teacher to discuss my ideas and get guidance on structuring my paper. This was a significant step for me because I had always been hesitant to ask for help, fearing it might be seen as a weakness. However, my teacher was incredibly supportive and provided valuable insights that helped me clarify my argument.

Additionally, I sought feedback from my peers. I formed a small study group with classmates who were also working on their papers. We exchanged drafts and provided constructive criticism to each other. This collaborative effort not only improved my paper but also boosted my confidence. I learned the importance of viewing feedback as an opportunity for growth rather than criticism.

As I revised my paper, I focused on strengthening my argument and ensuring my ideas flowed logically. I paid attention to my writing style, striving for clarity and precision. After countless hours of writing and revising, I finally submitted my paper, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

When I received my grade, I was thrilled to see that my hard work had paid off. The paper was not perfect, but it was a significant improvement from where I had started. More importantly, I had gained a deeper understanding of the subject matter and developed skills that would serve me well in future academic pursuits.

This experience taught me several valuable lessons. First, I learned the importance of perseverance. Challenges are inevitable, but with determination and a willingness to seek help, they can be overcome. Second, I realized that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Collaboration and seeking guidance are essential components of success. Finally, I understood the value of breaking down complex tasks into manageable steps, which makes the process less daunting and more achievable.

As I prepare for college, I am excited to apply these lessons to my future studies. Whether I pursue business administration, marketing, sports management, design, or journalism, I know that challenges will arise. However, I am confident in my ability to tackle them head-on, armed with the skills and resilience I have developed.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced during my AP English class was a pivotal moment in my high school journey. It taught me the importance of perseverance, collaboration, and strategic planning. These lessons have not only prepared me for college but also for life beyond academics. I am eager to embrace new challenges and continue growing as a student and individual.