my story by Georgeea

my story by Georgeea - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school journey, I have faced various academic challenges, but one that stands out the most is my struggle with balancing my coursework while preparing for the SATs. As a high school senior, the pressure to perform well academically while also preparing for college entrance exams was immense. This experience taught me valuable lessons about time management, perseverance, and self-belief.

During my junior year, I was taking several advanced classes, which demanded a lot of my time and energy. At the same time, I knew that doing well on the SAT was crucial for my college applications. Balancing these two important aspects of my academic life was incredibly challenging. I often felt overwhelmed by the amount of work I had to complete and the pressure to succeed.

Initially, I struggled to find a balance. I would spend long nights studying for my exams and working on assignments, only to find myself too exhausted to focus on SAT preparation. This cycle of exhaustion and stress started affecting my performance in both areas. I realized that I needed to find a better way to manage my time and energy if I wanted to succeed.

The turning point came when I decided to create a structured schedule. I sat down and mapped out all my responsibilities, allocating specific time slots for each task. I dedicated certain hours of the day solely for SAT prep and others for my schoolwork. This schedule helped me to see that I had more time than I initially thought, and it allowed me to focus on one task at a time without feeling overwhelmed.

Another key strategy I used was setting realistic goals. Instead of trying to cram everything into a short period, I broke down my study material into smaller, manageable sections. This approach made studying feel less daunting and more achievable. I also set milestones for myself, which helped me to stay motivated and track my progress over time.

Moreover, I learned to ask for help when needed. I reached out to my teachers and classmates for guidance and support. My teachers were understanding and provided additional resources and advice on how to tackle difficult topics. I also formed study groups with my peers, which allowed us to share knowledge and support each other through the challenges we faced.

Additionally, I made sure to take care of myself during this stressful period. I realized that maintaining a healthy lifestyle was crucial for my academic success. I prioritized getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking breaks to relax and recharge. These small changes had a significant impact on my ability to focus and retain information.

Through this experience, I learned the importance of perseverance. There were times when I felt like giving up, but I reminded myself of my goals and the reasons why I was working so hard. This mindset helped me push through the tough times and stay committed to my studies.

In the end, my hard work paid off. I managed to improve my SAT scores while maintaining my grades in school. This experience taught me that challenges are an inevitable part of life, but with determination and the right strategies, they can be overcome. It also reinforced my passion for pursuing a career in law and political science, where I know I will face many more challenges and opportunities to grow.

Looking back, I am grateful for this challenging experience because it prepared me for the future. It taught me how to manage my time effectively, set realistic goals, and seek help when needed. These skills will undoubtedly serve me well as I transition to college and beyond.

As I apply to universities like Penn State, UMD, and others, I carry with me the lessons learned from this experience. I am confident in my ability to handle the demands of college life and am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. This challenge has shaped me into a more resilient and determined individual, ready to take on whatever comes my way.