Scholar essay by Harmony

Scholar essay by Harmony - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Harmony Reed, and I am currently a rising sophomore at the College of Southern Nevada, where I am majoring in Theatre and Performing Arts. I have always been passionate about the arts, but my journey has not been without its challenges. One of the most significant academic challenges I faced was during my high school years, which tested my resolve and ultimately strengthened my commitment to my studies and my future career.

Throughout high school, my GPA was not as high as I would have liked. I finished with a 2.8 GPA, which reflected the struggles I faced balancing my academic responsibilities with my passion for theater. I was deeply involved in school plays and performances, which often required long hours of rehearsals and preparation. While I was thriving creatively, my academic performance was not as strong, and I knew I needed to make a change.

The turning point came during my junior year when I was cast in a leading role for the school play. It was a dream come true, but it also meant even more time spent away from my studies. My grades began to slip further, and I found myself overwhelmed and stressed. I realized that if I wanted to succeed both academically and in theater, I had to find a way to manage my time better and improve my study habits.

To overcome this challenge, I started by seeking help from my teachers and counselors. I was honest with them about my struggles, and they provided valuable guidance on how to prioritize my tasks and manage my time effectively. I also reached out to classmates who were doing well academically and asked for their advice on study techniques. They introduced me to new methods of organizing my work and breaking down assignments into manageable parts, which made a huge difference.

Additionally, I learned the importance of setting specific goals for myself. I began setting weekly goals for both my academics and theater commitments, which helped me stay focused and motivated. For example, I would set a goal to complete a certain number of assignments before rehearsals or dedicate a specific amount of time each day to study. By setting these goals, I was able to track my progress and hold myself accountable.

Another crucial step I took was to create a detailed schedule that balanced my academic and theater commitments. I used a planner to map out my days, ensuring that I allocated time for studying, rehearsals, and rest. This helped me avoid last-minute cramming sessions and reduced my stress levels significantly. Over time, I became more disciplined and efficient in managing my responsibilities.

One of the most important lessons I learned from this experience was the value of perseverance. There were times when I felt discouraged and doubted my ability to improve my grades while pursuing my passion for theater. However, I reminded myself of my goals and the reason I was working so hard. I wanted to prove to myself that I could excel in both areas, and that determination kept me going.

By the end of my senior year, my hard work began to pay off. My grades improved, and I developed a better understanding of how to balance my academic and creative pursuits. This experience taught me that challenges can be overcome with determination, support, and effective strategies. It also reinforced my belief in the importance of pursuing my passion for theater while maintaining a strong academic foundation.

As I continue my education at the College of Southern Nevada, I carry these lessons with me. I am committed to maintaining a balance between my studies and my involvement in theater productions. I know that the skills I have developed will serve me well as I pursue my dream of a career in the performing arts.

In conclusion, the academic challenges I faced in high school were a pivotal moment in my life. They taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of seeking help when needed. Overcoming these challenges has made me a stronger and more determined student, ready to tackle whatever comes my way. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story, and I hope it inspires others to persevere in the face of their own challenges.