My Challenging Experience by Emma

My Challenging Experience by Emma - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Emma Eller, and I am a junior at Minneapolis Jr-Sr High School. I have always had a passion for science, which is why I am interested in pursuing a major in Chemistry or Pharmacy at Kansas State University. However, like many students, I have faced my share of academic challenges. One experience that stands out is when I struggled with my Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry class during my sophomore year. It was a pivotal moment in my high school career, and overcoming it taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, seeking help, and believing in myself.

At the start of the AP Chemistry course, I was excited but also nervous. Chemistry had always fascinated me, and I was eager to dive deeper into the subject. However, as the semester progressed, I found myself struggling to keep up with the fast-paced curriculum. The concepts were more complex than anything I had encountered before, and I quickly realized that my usual study habits were not sufficient. My grades began to slip, and I felt overwhelmed and discouraged.

The turning point came after I received a disappointing grade on a major exam. I remember feeling defeated and questioning whether I was cut out for such a demanding course. However, I knew that giving up was not an option. I was determined to find a way to succeed, not only because I wanted to improve my grade but also because I genuinely loved the subject and wanted to understand it better.

The first step I took was to reassess my study habits. I realized that I needed to be more organized and proactive in my approach. I started by creating a detailed study schedule, breaking down the material into manageable sections and setting specific goals for each study session. This helped me stay on track and avoid last-minute cramming, which had been a major issue for me in the past.

Next, I sought help from my teacher. Initially, I was hesitant to ask for assistance, fearing that it would make me appear less capable. However, I soon realized that seeking help was a sign of strength, not weakness. My teacher was incredibly supportive and offered to meet with me after school to go over the material I was struggling with. These one-on-one sessions were invaluable, as they allowed me to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the concepts.

In addition to my teacher, I also reached out to my classmates. I formed a study group with a few peers who were also taking the class. We met regularly to review notes, discuss challenging topics, and quiz each other. This collaborative approach not only helped me grasp the material better but also made studying more enjoyable and less isolating.

Another important aspect of overcoming this challenge was changing my mindset. I had to learn to be patient with myself and embrace mistakes as part of the learning process. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, I started to see them as opportunities for growth. This shift in perspective helped me build resilience and maintain a positive attitude, even when things got tough.

Gradually, my hard work began to pay off. My grades improved, and I gained more confidence in my abilities. By the end of the course, I had not only achieved a grade I was proud of but also developed a genuine love for chemistry that reaffirmed my desire to pursue it further in college.

Reflecting on this experience, I am grateful for the challenges I faced in AP Chemistry. It taught me the importance of perseverance, the value of seeking help, and the power of a positive mindset. These lessons have not only made me a better student but have also prepared me for future challenges, both academically and personally.

As I look forward to attending Kansas State University, I am excited to continue my journey in the field of chemistry and pharmacy. I know that the skills and resilience I developed during this challenging experience will serve me well in college and beyond. I am eager to embrace new opportunities, overcome obstacles, and make the most of my education. Thank you for considering my application for the Varsity Tutors College Scholarship Contest.