Best Friend by Haley

Best Friend by Haley - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

An academic challenge I faced occurred during my freshman year of high school, when I transitioned back to in-person learning after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many students, I struggled with the abrupt shifts in learning formats, moving from fully online classes to a hybrid schedule, and finally to fully in-person classes. These changes, combined with the already significant transition from middle school to high school, created a perfect storm of academic and personal difficulties for me.

Online learning during the pandemic had not been easy. It was difficult to stay motivated, organized, and connected to my peers and teachers. When the hybrid schedule was introduced, the inconsistency of alternating between in-person and online learning made it even harder to establish a routine. By the time we fully returned to in-person classes, I felt unprepared and overwhelmed by the pace and expectations of high school academics. Unlike my older sister, who transitioned to high school under normal circumstances, my experience was rushed and chaotic.

The first quarter of freshman year became a wake-up call. For the first time in my academic life, I received grades as low as C’s. As someone who had consistently been an A and B student, this was a shock. It was a humbling experience that forced me to confront the reality that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to succeed. I realized that my struggles stemmed from two main issues: procrastination and a reluctance to ask for help.

Recognizing these weaknesses, I decided to take proactive steps to address them. Since I found it difficult to ask teachers for help—partly out of fear of being judged—I sought support from someone I trusted. I turned to a close friend who had always excelled academically. She was a straight-A student, someone I admired not only for her intelligence but also for her discipline and work ethic. I jokingly referred to her as an “academic weapon” because of her consistent success.

My friend became a key source of accountability and encouragement. We began working on homework together, even if we weren’t in the same classes. She would check in with me regularly, asking for proof that I had completed my assignments. This simple act of accountability pushed me to stay on top of my work and avoid the temptation to procrastinate. She also shared practical strategies that had worked for her, such as breaking tasks into smaller steps, setting deadlines, and using a planner to stay organized.

Through these efforts, I gradually developed new habits that helped me regain control of my academic performance. Instead of waiting until the last minute to start assignments, I learned to plan ahead and prioritize my tasks. I also became more comfortable seeking help, not only from my friend but eventually from my teachers as well. With time, my confidence grew, and I began to see improvements in my grades. By the end of the year, I had returned to being a high B and A student.

This experience taught me several important lessons that have stayed with me. First, it showed me the value of seeking support when I need it. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a proactive step toward growth. Second, it emphasized the importance of accountability and consistency. Having someone to hold me accountable made a significant difference in my ability to stay on track. Finally, it reinforced the idea that challenges, while difficult in the moment, can lead to personal growth and resilience.

Looking back, I am grateful for this challenging experience because it forced me to develop skills that I might not have learned otherwise. I now understand the importance of adaptability, discipline, and collaboration. While I initially felt discouraged by my struggles, overcoming them gave me a sense of accomplishment and confidence that continues to shape my approach to academics and other areas of my life. I owe much of this growth to my friend, whose guidance and support were instrumental in helping me navigate this difficult period.