Overcoming and Persevering by Hallie

Overcoming and Persevering by Hallie - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

As a high school junior at Carson High, I have faced my fair share of academic challenges, but one stands out as particularly transformative. This experience not only tested my perseverance but also deepened my passion for pursuing a career in healthcare. It all began in my sophomore year with a biology class that, at first, seemed insurmountable.

Biology was a subject I had always been curious about, especially since I have long aspired to enter the healthcare field. I imagined learning about the human body and its functions would be fascinating, and it was, but it was also much more difficult than I had anticipated. The class was fast-paced, and the material was dense and complex. I was overwhelmed by the amount of information I needed to absorb and understand. From cell structures to genetic coding, every topic required a level of detail that I had never encountered before.

My first few tests did not go well. I remember getting my first test back and feeling a sinking disappointment. Despite studying hard, my grade did not reflect the effort I had put in. It was a blow to my confidence, and for the first time, I questioned my ability to succeed in a subject I was passionate about. I knew I had to change my approach if I wanted to overcome this challenge.

The first step I took was to seek help. I realized that trying to tackle everything on my own was not working. I started attending after-school tutoring sessions offered by my biology teacher. These sessions were incredibly helpful because they allowed me to ask questions in a smaller setting and get immediate feedback. I also formed a study group with a few classmates. We met once a week to review material, quiz each other, and share resources. This group became a source of support and motivation, as we all encouraged each other to keep pushing forward.

I also had to refine my study habits. I learned that simply reading the textbook was not enough. I started taking detailed notes during class and created flashcards for key terms and concepts. I used online resources, like educational videos and interactive quizzes, to reinforce my understanding. These tools helped me visualize complex processes and retain information more effectively.

Another strategy that proved invaluable was connecting what I learned in class to real-world applications. I began volunteering at a local hospital, which was eye-opening. Seeing healthcare professionals in action and understanding how the biological concepts I was learning applied to patient care made the material more relevant and exciting. This experience reinforced my desire to pursue a career in nursing and motivated me to work even harder in my biology class.

Over time, my efforts began to pay off. My test scores improved, and I started to feel more confident in my abilities. I learned the importance of perseverance and the value of seeking help when needed. This experience taught me that challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth. It also solidified my commitment to a career in healthcare, where I can combine my love for science with my desire to help others.

As I look ahead to college, I am excited about the prospect of studying nursing or a related field. I am particularly interested in the programs at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Liberty University, and North Carolina State University, among others. These schools offer excellent opportunities for students pursuing healthcare careers, and I am eager to continue my education at an institution that values both academic rigor and practical experience.

In conclusion, the challenge I faced in my biology class was a turning point in my academic journey. It taught me resilience, the importance of collaboration, and the power of connecting classroom learning to real-world experiences. I am grateful for the lessons I learned and the growth I experienced. This challenge has prepared me well for the academic and personal challenges I will face in college and beyond, and I am ready to embrace them with the same determination and passion.