determination by Hailey

determination by Hailey - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

Throughout my high school years, I have faced various academic challenges, but one that stands out the most was my struggle with chemistry during my junior year. Chemistry is a subject that requires a strong understanding of complex concepts and the ability to apply them practically, and I found it particularly difficult to grasp at first. My initial struggle with chemistry was a significant challenge, but it also became a pivotal experience in my academic journey, teaching me resilience, determination, and the importance of seeking help.

When I first started my chemistry class, I was overwhelmed by the new terminology, the intricate equations, and the abstract concepts. Despite my efforts to keep up with the coursework, my grades did not reflect the hard work I was putting in. I remember feeling frustrated and discouraged, especially after receiving a low score on my first major test. It was a blow to my confidence, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the subject.

However, I knew that giving up was not an option. I was determined to overcome this challenge and improve my understanding of chemistry. The first step I took was to change my approach to studying. I realized that simply reading the textbook and taking notes was not enough. I needed to engage with the material in a more active way. So, I started to create mind maps to visually organize the information, which helped me see the connections between different concepts. Additionally, I began to solve practice problems regularly, which allowed me to apply what I was learning and identify areas where I needed more practice.

Another crucial step in overcoming my struggle with chemistry was seeking help from others. I reached out to my teacher and asked for additional guidance. She was incredibly supportive and offered to meet with me after school to go over the topics I found most challenging. These one-on-one sessions were invaluable, as they gave me the opportunity to ask questions and receive personalized feedback. Moreover, I joined a study group with some of my classmates. Working together, we were able to share our understanding and learn from each other. This collaborative environment made studying more enjoyable and less daunting.

In addition to changing my study habits and seeking help, I also worked on developing a growth mindset. I reminded myself that struggling with a subject did not mean I was not capable; it simply meant I needed to find new ways to learn and understand the material. I started to view my mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures. This shift in perspective helped me stay motivated and persistent, even when the coursework became more challenging.

As the semester progressed, my hard work and dedication began to pay off. I started to see improvements in my grades and, more importantly, in my understanding of chemistry. By the end of the year, I had developed a genuine interest in the subject, which I never thought would be possible when I first started the class. This experience taught me that with the right mindset, resources, and support, I could overcome any academic challenge.

Reflecting on this experience, I realize that the skills I developed during this time are not only applicable to chemistry but to any academic or personal challenge I may face in the future. The ability to adapt my learning strategies, seek help when needed, and maintain a positive attitude has been invaluable in my journey as a student. These skills will undoubtedly serve me well as I pursue a nursing degree at Augustana University, where I will encounter new and challenging material.

In nursing, the ability to understand complex concepts and apply them in real-world situations is crucial. My experience with chemistry has prepared me for this aspect of my future studies. It has taught me to approach challenges with determination and an open mind, knowing that I have the tools to overcome them. I am excited about the opportunity to continue learning and growing in a field that I am passionate about, and I am confident that the lessons I learned from my chemistry challenge will help me succeed.

In conclusion, facing the challenge of chemistry during my junior year was a transformative experience. It taught me important lessons about resilience, the value of seeking help, and the power of a growth mindset. These lessons have not only helped me improve academically but have also prepared me for future challenges in my academic and professional journey. I am grateful for the opportunity to have faced this challenge, as it has made me a stronger and more determined student, ready to take on the next chapter of my education at Augustana University.