Strength through Adversity by Hannah

Strength through Adversity by Hannah - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Hannah Keahbone, and I am a high school senior with a passion for nursing. I am excited to share my story about a challenging academic experience that tested my resilience and determination. This experience not only shaped my character but also reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career in nursing at Oklahoma Baptist University.

During my freshman year, I faced one of the most challenging academic experiences in my high school journey. It was a time when I was taking a rigorous Advanced Placement Math class. The subject itself was complex, and the workload was intense. I knew that understanding Algebra was crucial for my future career in nursing, so I was determined to excel. However, halfway through the semester, I found myself struggling to keep up with the pace of the class. The material was difficult, and I felt overwhelmed by the amount of information I needed to learn and retain. Not to mention my rigorous schedule from missing school regularly to attend my cross country events, which including 5am practices.

The turning point came when I received a grade on a major exam that was far below my expectations. It was disheartening, and for the first time, I questioned my ability to succeed in a subject that was so important to my future. I realized that I needed to change my approach if I wanted to overcome this obstacle.

The first step I took was to seek help. I reached out to my Algebra teacher and asked for guidance on how to improve. My teacher was supportive and provided me with additional resources, such as study guides and practice exams. This extra material helped me to focus on key concepts and identify areas where I needed to improve. I also started attending after-school tutoring sessions, where I could ask questions and clarify any doubts I had about the material.

In addition to seeking help from my teacher, I formed a study group with some of my classmates. We met regularly to review the material, discuss challenging topics, and quiz each other. This collaborative environment made learning more engaging and less intimidating. It was comforting to know that I was not alone in my struggles, and together, we motivated each other to keep pushing forward.

Another important change I made was to improve my time management skills. I created a study schedule that allowed me to dedicate specific times each day to reviewing biology. This structured approach helped me to stay organized and ensure that I was consistently dedicating time to my studies. I also learned to prioritize my tasks, focusing on the most important and challenging topics first.

Throughout this process, I reminded myself of why I wanted to pursue a career in nursing. My passion for helping others and my desire to make a difference in people's lives kept me motivated. I knew that overcoming this academic challenge was a step towards achieving my dream.

Gradually, my hard work and dedication began to pay off. My grades improved, and I gained a deeper understanding of the subject. I became more confident in my abilities, and I was able to approach exams with a positive mindset. By the end of the semester, I had achieved a grade that I was proud of, and more importantly, I had developed valuable skills that would serve me well in college and beyond.

This experience taught me several important lessons. I learned the value of perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed. I also discovered the power of collaboration and the benefits of effective time management. These lessons have not only helped me in my academic pursuits but have also prepared me for the challenges I will face in my future nursing career.

As a Native American woman, I am proud of my heritage and the resilience of my ancestors. This experience reminded me of the strength that runs in my blood and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. I am determined to carry this strength with me as I embark on my journey to become a nurse.

In conclusion, the challenging academic experience I faced in my AP Algebra class was a pivotal moment in my life. It taught me the importance of resilience, collaboration, and effective time management. These lessons have prepared me for the challenges I will face in college and in my future career as a nurse. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story, and I am excited to continue my education at Oklahoma Baptist University, where I can further develop my skills and make a positive impact in the world.