Overcoming by Essence

Overcoming by Essence - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Starting my first semester of college has been one of the most challenging experiences of my life. Coming from a low-income background, I’ve faced the difficult task of balancing a full course load with working part-time to help cover tuition and living expenses. The demands of my job and academic responsibilities quickly became overwhelming, leaving me exhausted and doubting my ability to succeed in this new environment.

The financial stress and time constraints affected me deeply. I often struggled to stay focused in class and keep up with assignments, as late nights and limited personal time left me physically and mentally drained. I began to feel the weight of my circumstances, questioning whether pursuing a college education was even possible for someone like me.

Despite these challenges, I refused to give up. I sought support by connecting with my academic advisor, who helped me prioritize my workload and develop a better plan to manage my time. I also reached out to the financial aid office and successfully applied for additional grants and scholarships, which eased some of my financial worries. With a more manageable schedule and newfound resources, I began to regain my focus and confidence.

This experience has taught me the importance of resilience, asking for help, and taking proactive steps to overcome obstacles. Though I’m still navigating my first semester, I feel more empowered to handle the demands of college life. Facing these challenges early on has strengthened my determination to succeed, and I know I’ll carry these lessons with me throughout my academic journey and beyond.