Adjusting as a College Freshman by Gabriel

Adjusting as a College Freshman by Gabriel - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Gabriel Perry, and as a college freshman at Crowder College, I have had my fair share of academic challenges. One of the most significant challenges I faced was adapting to the demands of college-level coursework while balancing my responsibilities as a first-time college student and walk-on soccer player. This experience taught me valuable lessons about time management, perseverance, and the importance of seeking help when needed.

Coming from high school and not living on my own, I knew that college would be different, but I did not fully grasp how much more rigorous the coursework would be. I am majoring in Teacher Education, and I quickly realized that the expectations in college were much higher. The assignments were more complex, the reading load was heavier, and the deadlines seemed to come faster than ever before. During my first semester, I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace. My GPA was not where I wanted it to be, and it was clear that I needed to make some changes.

The turning point came when I received a grade on a major assignment that was much lower than I had anticipated. It was a wake-up call. I realized that I could not continue with the same approach I had used in high school. I needed to develop new strategies to succeed in college. The first step was acknowledging that I needed help. I reached out to my professors and academic advisors to discuss my situation. They were incredibly supportive and provided me with practical advice on how to improve my study habits and manage my time effectively.

One of the most important strategies I learned was the importance of creating a structured schedule. I began to plan my days and weeks in advance, setting aside specific times for studying, attending classes, and completing assignments. This helped me to stay organized and ensured that I was dedicating enough time to each of my courses. I also learned to prioritize tasks based on their deadlines and level of importance, which helped me to avoid the stress of last-minute cramming.

Another key change I made was developing better study habits. I started to take more detailed notes during lectures and actively participated in class discussions. This not only helped me to better understand the material but also made studying for exams more manageable. I also began to form study groups with classmates, which provided a supportive environment where we could share ideas and help each other with difficult concepts.

In addition to improving my time management and study skills, I learned the value of utilizing campus resources. Crowder College offers a variety of support services, such as tutoring centers and writing labs, which are designed to help students succeed. I started to take advantage of these resources, attending tutoring sessions for subjects I found challenging and seeking feedback on my writing assignments. This extra support made a significant difference in my academic performance.

Throughout this experience, I also learned the importance of maintaining a healthy balance between my academic responsibilities and personal well-being. I made a conscious effort to incorporate regular exercise and relaxation time into my schedule, as I found that this helped to reduce stress and improve my focus. By taking care of my physical and mental health, I was better equipped to handle the demands of college life.

Over time, these changes began to pay off. My grades improved, and I felt more confident in my ability to succeed in my courses. I learned that perseverance and a willingness to adapt are essential qualities for overcoming academic challenges. This experience has not only made me a better student but has also prepared me for the challenges I will face in my future career as an educator.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced during my first semester at Crowder College taught me invaluable lessons about time management, study strategies, and the importance of seeking help. By making these adjustments, I was able to overcome the difficulties I encountered and achieve a better balance in my college life. I am grateful for the support I received from my professors, advisors, and classmates, and I am confident that the skills I have developed will serve me well as I continue my studies in Teacher Education. This experience has strengthened my resolve to become an effective and compassionate educator, and I am excited to apply these lessons in my future teaching career.