Road to Law School Struggles by Gabriel

Road to Law School Struggles by Gabriel - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a college sophomore at Arizona State University, I have faced a variety of academic challenges, but one experience stands out as particularly transformative. It was during my freshman year, in my Introduction to Criminal Justice class. This course was pivotal, not only because it was foundational for my major, but also because it tested my perseverance and commitment to my studies in unexpected ways.

At the start of the semester, I was excited and eager to dive into the world of criminal justice. My interest in this field stems from a deep-seated desire to understand the complexities of law enforcement and justice, influenced by my diverse background as Hispanic, Native American, and White. I felt a strong connection to the material, hoping to one day contribute positively to communities like mine. However, I quickly realized that my enthusiasm was not enough to carry me through the course.

The first few weeks were manageable, but as the semester progressed, the workload intensified. The class required a deep understanding of legal terminology, case studies, and theoretical frameworks that were entirely new to me. I found myself struggling to keep up with the readings and lectures. The turning point came when I received a disappointing grade on my first major paper. It was a wake-up call that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed.

Determined not to let this setback define my academic journey, I decided to seek help. I reached out to my professor during office hours, hoping to gain insights into where I went wrong and how I could improve. This was a humbling experience, as I had always been somewhat hesitant to ask for help, fearing it might reflect poorly on my abilities. However, my professor was incredibly supportive and provided valuable feedback, pointing out specific areas for improvement and suggesting additional resources.

In addition to seeking guidance from my professor, I also joined a study group with fellow classmates. This decision was crucial, as it allowed me to engage in discussions, share perspectives, and learn collaboratively. The group became a source of motivation and accountability, pushing me to stay on top of the material and prepare more thoroughly for exams and assignments.

Moreover, I realized that I needed to improve my time management skills. Balancing a full course load, part-time work, and personal commitments was challenging, but I knew it was essential to find a way to allocate my time more effectively. I started using a planner to organize my tasks and set specific goals for each study session. This strategy helped me break down the workload into manageable pieces and reduced the overwhelming feeling that had been holding me back.

As the semester continued, I noticed a significant improvement in my understanding and performance. The effort I put into seeking help, collaborating with peers, and managing my time paid off. By the end of the course, I had not only raised my grade significantly but also gained a deeper appreciation for the subject matter. This experience taught me the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of academic challenges.

Reflecting on this journey, I am grateful for the lessons I learned. It reinforced my belief that challenges are opportunities for growth and that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. As I continue my studies in criminal justice, I am more confident in my ability to tackle difficult subjects and am committed to applying these lessons to future challenges.

This experience has also strengthened my resolve to contribute to the field of criminal justice. I am driven by the desire to make a difference in communities and to advocate for justice and equality. My diverse background gives me a unique perspective, and I hope to use my education to bridge gaps and foster understanding across different communities.

In conclusion, the academic challenge I faced in my Introduction to Criminal Justice class was a defining moment in my college journey. It taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of seeking support, and the power of effective time management. These lessons have not only helped me succeed academically but have also prepared me for the challenges I will face in my future career. I am excited to continue my studies at Arizona State University, equipped with the skills and determination to make a meaningful impact in the field of criminal justice.