by Guinevan

by Guinevan - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

When I think about the most challenging academic experience I have faced, my mind immediately goes back to my first semester at Triton College. As a freshman, I was excited but also a bit anxious about starting college. I was particularly focused on my accounting and economics classes, as these subjects are not only my majors but also my passion. However, I quickly realized that college-level courses were much more demanding than anything I had experienced in high school.

One of the biggest challenges I faced was in my introductory accounting class. I had always been good with numbers and enjoyed balancing budgets and understanding financial statements. But in this class, the material was presented at a much faster pace, and the concepts were more complex than what I was used to. I remember the first few weeks being overwhelming, as we dove into topics like double-entry bookkeeping and financial ratios. It felt like I was drowning in information, and I started to doubt my ability to keep up.

The turning point came when I received my first exam grade. It was lower than I had hoped, and I felt discouraged. I realized that my usual study habits were not enough for this level of coursework. I knew I had to change my approach if I wanted to succeed. This realization was both daunting and motivating. I decided to take a step back and reevaluate how I was studying.

First, I began attending every office hour session my professor offered. At first, I was hesitant, worried that I might appear incompetent. But I soon found that my professor was incredibly supportive and willing to help clarify concepts I struggled with. These sessions allowed me to ask questions in a more relaxed setting and gain a deeper understanding of the material.

Additionally, I formed a study group with a few classmates. This was a game-changer for me. We met regularly to review class notes, discuss difficult topics, and quiz each other before exams. Working with peers helped me see different perspectives and approaches to the problems we were solving. It also provided a sense of camaraderie and support, as we were all going through the same challenges together.

I also started using additional resources outside of class. I found online tutorials and forums where accounting students and professionals shared their knowledge and tips. These resources were invaluable, as they offered different explanations and methods for solving accounting problems. They helped reinforce what I was learning in class and gave me extra practice.

Time management became another crucial area for improvement. I realized that balancing my coursework, study sessions, and personal life required better planning. I began keeping a detailed planner, scheduling specific times for studying, attending tutoring sessions, and even relaxing. This structure helped me stay organized and reduced the stress of trying to juggle multiple responsibilities.

Through these efforts, I slowly began to see improvement. My grades started to rise, and more importantly, I gained confidence in my ability to tackle difficult subjects. By the end of the semester, I had not only improved my grade in the accounting class but also developed skills and habits that would benefit me throughout my college career.

This experience taught me several valuable lessons. I learned the importance of seeking help when needed and that there is no shame in asking questions. I also discovered the power of collaboration and how working with others can enhance learning. Most importantly, I realized that challenges are opportunities for growth. Facing difficulties head-on and finding ways to overcome them builds resilience and character.

As I continue my studies in accounting and economics, I know there will be more challenges ahead. However, I feel better prepared to handle them because of what I learned during that first semester. I am committed to applying these lessons to my future coursework and am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

In conclusion, my challenging experience in my accounting class taught me that perseverance, resourcefulness, and a willingness to adapt are essential for overcoming academic obstacles. I am proud of how far I have come and am motivated to keep pushing myself to achieve my academic and career goals. This journey has reinforced my passion for my chosen fields and my determination to succeed, not just for myself, but to contribute positively to the world of business and finance.