My dream by Harris

My dream by Harris - December 2024 Scholarship Essay

My name is Harris Rocaberte, and I am currently a second-year graduate student majoring in Aviation and Aeronautical studies. My journey in this field has been both exciting and challenging, filled with numerous learning experiences that have shaped me into the student I am today. One of the most challenging academic experiences I have faced occurred during my first year of graduate school, and it taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of seeking help when needed.

When I first entered graduate school, I was eager and ready to dive deep into the complexities of aviation. However, I soon found myself struggling with one of the core courses in my program: Advanced Aerodynamics. The course was notorious for its rigorous content and high expectations, and I quickly realized that my undergraduate preparation, while solid, was not enough to carry me through this advanced material without considerable effort.

The first few weeks were overwhelming. The lectures were dense with complex theories and mathematical models that seemed to go over my head. My initial enthusiasm began to wane as I found myself falling behind in understanding the coursework. It was disheartening to see my grades reflecting my struggle, and I began to doubt my ability to succeed in the program.

Realizing that I could not continue down this path, I decided to take a step back and reassess my approach to the course. The first thing I did was to reach out to my professor. I scheduled a meeting during office hours to discuss my difficulties. This was a significant step for me, as I had always been somewhat hesitant to ask for help. However, my professor was incredibly supportive and provided me with additional resources, including recommended readings and practice problems that were more aligned with my learning style.

In addition to seeking help from my professor, I also joined a study group with some of my classmates. This was another crucial element in overcoming my academic challenge. Working with peers allowed me to gain different perspectives on the material and helped me to grasp concepts that I had previously struggled with. We would meet regularly to discuss the lectures, solve problems together, and support each other through the tough spots. The collaborative environment made a significant difference in my understanding and retention of the material.

I also had to make changes to my study habits. I began dedicating more time each day to review the course content, breaking it down into manageable sections. I found that by focusing on smaller parts of the material, I was able to build a stronger foundation of understanding, which made the more complex topics easier to tackle. I also made use of online resources, such as educational videos and forums, which provided additional explanations and examples that complemented my learning.

Through these efforts, I gradually began to see improvement. My confidence grew as I started to understand the material more deeply, and my grades reflected this progress. By the end of the semester, I had not only passed the course but had developed a strong appreciation for the subject matter. The experience taught me that challenges, while daunting, can be overcome with persistence, the right support, and a willingness to adapt and learn.

This challenging academic experience was a turning point in my graduate studies. It reinforced the importance of seeking help and collaborating with others, and it showed me that it is okay to struggle as long as you are willing to put in the effort to overcome those struggles. I learned that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a step towards growth and understanding.

As I continue my studies in aviation and aeronautics, I carry these lessons with me. They have not only made me a better student but have also prepared me for future challenges, both academically and professionally. The field of aviation is constantly evolving, and I know that there will be more obstacles to face along the way. However, I am confident that with the skills and resilience I have developed, I will be able to navigate these challenges successfully.

In conclusion, the experience of overcoming my difficulties in Advanced Aerodynamics has been one of the most defining moments of my academic career. It has taught me the value of perseverance, the power of collaboration, and the importance of seeking help when needed. These lessons will undoubtedly continue to guide me as I pursue my passion for aviation and strive to make meaningful contributions to the field.