My challenges and journey with chemistry and more by Emily

My challenges and journey with chemistry and more by Emily - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I first started college at California State University - Dominguez Hills, I was full of excitement and nervousness. I was ready to dive into my studies in Biology and Chemistry, eager to learn everything I could about the sciences. However, I quickly realized that college was a lot more challenging than I had anticipated. One of the most difficult academic experiences I faced was during my freshman year, in my General Chemistry class.

Chemistry had always been a subject I was interested in, but the college-level course was a whole different ball game. The concepts were complex, and the pace was much faster than what I was used to in high school. I found myself struggling to keep up with the lectures and lab work. My grades were not where I wanted them to be, and I felt overwhelmed.

The turning point came after I received a particularly low score on a midterm exam. It was a wake-up call for me. I realized I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed. I started by reaching out for help. I went to my professor during office hours and asked for guidance on how to better understand the material. My professor was incredibly supportive and provided me with additional resources and study tips.

I also joined a study group with some classmates. We met regularly to go over the material together, discuss difficult concepts, and quiz each other. This collaborative environment helped me see things from different perspectives and filled in gaps in my understanding. It was comforting to know that I was not alone in my struggles, and we could support each other.

Time management was another area I had to improve. Balancing my coursework, labs, and personal life was challenging, so I started using a planner to organize my schedule. I set aside specific times each day dedicated to studying chemistry, breaking down the material into manageable parts. This routine helped me stay on track and reduced my anxiety.

In addition to these strategies, I made use of campus resources like tutoring centers. The tutors were patient and explained concepts in ways that were easier to grasp. Their support was invaluable, especially when preparing for exams.

Throughout this process, I learned the importance of perseverance and asking for help when needed. It was not easy to admit that I was struggling, but doing so allowed me to access the support I needed to improve. I also learned that it is okay to make mistakes and that they can be powerful learning opportunities.

By the end of the semester, I saw significant improvement in my understanding of chemistry and my grades. I passed the course with a much better score than I initially expected. This experience taught me that challenges are a part of the learning process and that overcoming them requires determination, effort, and a willingness to seek help.

As a Hispanic woman in the sciences, I am aware of the underrepresentation of minorities in STEM fields. This experience has strengthened my resolve to succeed and to be a role model for others who may face similar challenges. It reminded me of the importance of diversity and inclusion in academic environments, and how different perspectives can enrich the learning experience for everyone.

My journey in college has not been perfect, and I know I still have a lot to learn. My GPA is not as high as I would like it to be, but I am committed to working hard and improving. I am determined to continue my studies in Biology and Chemistry, and I am eager to contribute to the scientific community in the future.

This challenging experience in General Chemistry taught me resilience and the value of seeking support. It has prepared me to face future academic challenges with confidence and determination. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and for the opportunity to grow both personally and academically.

I am hopeful that with continued effort and support, I will achieve my academic and career goals. I am excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. This scholarship would be an incredible help in continuing my education and pursuing my passion for science. Thank you for considering my application.